Alison McLean remembered for Professionalism, Kindness and Humanity

Alison, a Jamaican national, has served across the Caribbean and the United States for over 30 years advocating for the rights of the most vulnerable , including women and children.

More recently, her impact and contribution in fighting for gender equality across this region leaves a great legacy.  "I can't help but remember her enthusiasm in March of this year, as we (as colleague Heads of Agencies) participated in the launch of the Grenada Country Programme of the Spotlight initiative. Despite what was a hectic assignment, Alison landed in Barbados , only to immediately leave again for her hometown to participate in the Jamaica Spotlight launch. This was the measure of her commitment and dedication to this region, and to the women and girls for whom she was advocating through this joint UN initiative," recalls Didier Trebucq, Resident Coordinator. 

As tributes come from around the world, Alison has been lauded by  peers  for her kindness, warmth and energy, as well as her commitment, strength, passion and resilience. As a professional she is remembered as focused and a trailblazer for gender equality.  "She was an amazing professional and human being so we will miss her dearly; she  taught me much about being uncompromising, on upholding principle, and was the very model of dedication to the most vulnerable,"one colleague recalled.  Bright , energetic, plain-speaking and focused on making a difference was the way some colleagues remembered Alison, while others noted her willingness to  share her knowledge and give advice. “Alison was an incredible person. She helped me navigate some of the nuances of a Caribbean-wide multi-country office and was always available to share her wisdom. She was someone I feel privileged to have known.”

Fierce, fun and fabulous were also words attributed to the former UN Head of Agency . “I will miss her laughter, her passion, her sassiness, her style,” one colleague remarked.  A proud Jamaican and a true Caribbean spirit, she was also hailed as "a woman totally at ease with her Caribbean identity." Known for her distinct voice and "yardie" accent, one college underlined:  "that rich voice with that sweet Jamaican accent made her contributions even more receptive."

Prior to joining the UN, Alison served as Permanent Secretary in Jamaica's  Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports, and  as as the Chief Technical Director/Principal Director of the Office of the Prime Minister, where her portfolio of  responsibilities included gender affairs. She also  worked as a Special Advocate for Children in the United States and as the Chief Executive Officer for the Child Development Agency in Jamaica.  Alison,  holds a Master of Philosophy Degree in International Relations from Cambridge University, and was a long-serving lecturer in International Relations and Negotiations at the  University of the West Indies.  

Alison’s passing has been deemed a "true loss" for her relatives and close friends , the UN System as whole, UN Women, in particular, and her country Jamaica where she has left a long and outstanding legacy. 

We will always fondly  remember her friendship, humility, optimism and determination as a feminist. Our thoughts go out to her sons, family , close friends and colleagues across the world.