The Jamaica Independence Gala in New York has established itself as one of the vital prestigious occasions celebrating Jamaican heritage. Hosted on the New York Marriott Marquis, the black-tie affair blends class, tradition, and philanthropy whereas honoring the achievements of Jamaicans and buddies of Jamaica who’ve made an affect throughout the globe.
Every year, the gala shines a highlight on people who embody Jamaica’s affect in enterprise, tradition, philanthropy, and training. The occasion’s theme, “Celebration with a Function,” captures its distinctive mix of festivity and neighborhood affect, making certain that the celebrations are tied to lasting advantages for Jamaica and its folks.
Honoring Excellence: The Awardees
On the coronary heart of the gala are the honorees. Every award displays not solely the recipient’s skilled success but in addition their enduring affect on Jamaica and the broader world.
James Alston – Group Improvement & Philanthropy Award
James Alston, a trailblazing Jamaican-American entrepreneur, was acknowledged for his a long time of neighborhood service and philanthropy. Because the chief of McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Dwelling, Alston has supported numerous households whereas investing closely in scholarships and youth improvement.
Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin – Lifetime Achievement Award
Patricia Chin, co-founder of VP Data, was celebrated as a cultural pioneer. From Kingston’s Randy’s File Mart to constructing the world’s largest reggae label in New York, “Miss Pat” has been central to spreading Jamaican music worldwide. Her philanthropic contributions to music training additional cement her legacy.
Henry “Larry” Duffus – Entrepreneurship Award
Henry Duffus, founding father of Larry’s Freewheeling bike store in Manhattan, obtained the Entrepreneurship Award. For over 4 a long time, he has not solely constructed a thriving enterprise but in addition mentored younger folks, promoted wholesome life, and supported neighborhood initiatives.
Gregory Fisher – Nationwide Improvement Award
Gregory Fisher, a monetary government and philanthropist, was honored for his a long time of help for Jamaica’s economic system. His advocacy on Wall Road and his philanthropic contributions to training and healthcare in Jamaica show his enduring partnership with the island.
Hon. Rita Marley, O.D. – Lifetime Achievement Award
Rita Marley, matriarch of the Marley household and reggae icon, was acknowledged for her lifelong contributions to music, tradition, and humanitarian work. By means of the Rita Marley Basis, she has uplifted ladies and youth in Jamaica and throughout the African diaspora.
Dr. Anthony Munroe – Schooling Management Award
Dr. Anthony Munroe, President of Borough of Manhattan Group Faculty, obtained recognition for his management in increased training. With deep Caribbean roots, his profession has been devoted to increasing alternatives for college students and addressing obstacles to success.
Adam Stewart – Enterprise Management Award
Adam Stewart, Government Chairman of Sandals Resorts Worldwide and the ATL Group, was celebrated for his visionary enterprise management and philanthropic work. By means of the Sandals Basis, he has supported training, healthcare, and neighborhood improvement throughout the Caribbean.
Audrey Tugwell Henry – Enterprise Management Award
Audrey Tugwell Henry, President and CEO of Scotia Group Jamaica, was honored for her management in finance. Her trailblazing profession displays resilience and innovation, and he or she has championed initiatives supporting ladies entrepreneurs and monetary inclusion.
A Gala With Function
The Jamaica Independence Gala is not only about recognition. It is usually about giving again. Proceeds from the night help:
- Scholarships for Jamaican tertiary college students
- The Jamaica Most cancers Society
- The Rose City Basis
- The Rita Marley Basis Heart for Women
These initiatives make sure that the night time’s celebrations translate into long-term affect for communities in Jamaica.
A Legacy of Celebration and Giving
Over time, the Jamaica Independence Gala has advanced right into a cornerstone occasion for the diaspora. It brings collectively leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and neighborhood members who share a deep pleasure in Jamaica and a dedication to its future.
By honoring icons like Rita Marley, cultural pioneers like Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin, and enterprise leaders like Adam Stewart and Audrey Tugwell Henry, the gala continues to focus on the numerous methods Jamaicans contribute to world progress. It stands as each a celebration of heritage and a catalyst for constructive change.The newest staging of the gala occurred on August 23, 2025
Picture Lorraine Muir, Victoria Harper, Hope Blake Wade, Camelia Lawrence
