Jamaican Author and Publicist Susan Smith of Powerhouse Global Media Dies, Leaving Lasting Legacy

Susan Smith, widely known as Susan PR of Powerhouse Global Media, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Mandeville Regional Hospital. While the cause of death has not yet been ascertained, it is understood that Smith sought medical attention after feeling ill and later died while undergoing treatment. She leaves behind her daughter, Kayra-Rose, and an immeasurable professional legacy that reshaped how Jamaican talent was positioned both locally and on the global stage.

A Jamaican-born publicist with a sharp editorial instinct and an unmatched work ethic, Smith was the principal and CEO of Powerhouse Global Media, where she built a reputation as one of the industry’s most reliable behind-the-scenes forces. From emerging creatives to established cultural figures, her fingerprints were on countless campaigns that amplified Caribbean stories with clarity and credibility. More than a publicist, she functioned as a bridge between artists, media houses and international audiences, ensuring Jamaican voices were not only heard, but understood.

Beyond publicity, Smith was deeply invested in storytelling as a tool for empowerment. A graduate of The University of the West Indies, Mona, with a Bachelor of Arts in English, she channelled her love for language into children’s literature that celebrated Black identity and confidence. Her books, including Little Black Girl and Hey Black Boy, became affirmations for young readers at a time when representation mattered more than ever. That same sense of purpose informed her television production work, consulting roles and talent booking efforts across the entertainment ecosystem.

As tributes continue to pour in from artistes, media professionals and cultural stakeholders, one thing is clear: Susan Smith’s impact extended far beyond press releases and promo cycles. She helped define an era of Jamaican media professionalism while nurturing stories that uplifted culture and community. Her absence leaves a void, but her work ensures her influence will endure.

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