Miramar, FL – December 13, 2024 – The inaugural in-person staging of the Better of Jamaica Awards dazzled the Jamaican diaspora with a night of celebration, cultural satisfaction, and recognition. Held on December 12, 2024, on the picturesque Miramar Cultural Heart Gardens, the occasion marked a historic milestone for the celebrated awards platform, which has highlighted Jamaican excellence on-line for 25 years. This vibrant gathering additionally commemorated the twenty ninth anniversary of Jamaicans.com, the influential hub for Jamaican tradition worldwide.
Hosted by fashionable media persona Jody Ann Grey and Miramar Commissioner Yvette Colbourne, the night was a testomony to the energy and unity of the Jamaican diaspora. Commissioner Colbourne warmly welcomed attendees, expressing her satisfaction in internet hosting an occasion that showcased the group’s unbelievable contributions. Fellow Commissioner Maxwell B. Chambers additionally reaffirmed Miramar’s dedication to uplifting the diaspora, setting the tone for an evening stuffed with heartfelt speeches and joyous celebration.
Honouring the Finest in Excellence
The awards spotlighted one of the best in Jamaican achievement by means of two key classes: Folks’s Alternative and Influence Makers. The People’s Choice Awards, voted on by the general public, celebrated beloved personalities and entities throughout tradition, leisure, and enterprise. Highlights included Simone Clarke-Cooper, named Media Character of the Yr, who flew in from Kingston to just accept her award. Moved by the popularity, Clarke-Cooper mirrored, “This isn’t simply an award for me—it’s a celebration of our tradition and the tales we proceed to share throughout the globe.”
The Influence Makers class celebrated people and organisations whose contributions have left an indelible mark on their communities and industries. Sheryl Lee Ralph was named Individual of the Yr and despatched an inspiring video message, saying, “The Better of Jamaica Awards is not only a testomony to anybody particular person however of the collective spirit of Jamaica.” Accepting on her behalf, Angella Donawa remarked, “Sheryl’s unwavering illustration of Jamaican tradition and satisfaction is extraordinary.” Caribbean Sunshine Bakery was honoured as Enterprise of the Yr USA, whereas Choose Jewel Scott was recognised as Change Maker of the Yr for her trailblazing work in regulation and advocacy.
New Award Classes
Two new classes was established this yr, Judges’ Picks and Benefit Awards including an additional layer of distinction to the night. Julie Mango and Basillia Barnaby-Cuff had been recognised for his or her social media impression, whereas Rojé Stona and Kishane Thompson had been honoured for his or her contributions to Jamaican sports activities. Mortimer, Gramps Morgan, and Masicka had been celebrated for his or her musical achievements, and Hope Blake Wade and Joel Nomdarkham for his or her affect in style. These honourees exemplify the spirit of excellence and creativity that defines Jamaican expertise.
A Evening of Vibrancy and Unity
The occasion’s ambiance was alive with the spirit of Jamaican tradition. Leisure included transferring performances by Adrianna Clarke, the mesmerising sounds of Sons of Mystro, and an electrifying set by reggae artist Ed Robinson, who was joined on stage by Consul Basic Oliver Mair for a strong rendition of Knocking on Heaven’s Door. Honourees travelled from throughout the globe to just accept their awards, together with Steven “Sir Rockwell” Warner, Sidonia and Howard “Namamous” Osbourne, and Allan Daisley of Kingston Inventive.
Trying Forward
Reflecting on the night’s success, Jamaicans.com founder Xavier Murphy remarked, “This night was all the pieces we dreamed of and extra. To see our Jamaican tradition celebrated in individual, with such ardour and satisfaction, is actually humbling. The Better of Jamaica Awards aren’t nearly recognising excellence—they’re about bringing our group collectively to share within the pleasure of our heritage.”
With plans to take the celebration to New York in 2025, the Better of Jamaica Awards proceed to be a cornerstone of Jamaican satisfaction and achievement. This inaugural in-person occasion was not only a gathering—it was a testomony to the enduring energy and unity of the Jamaican diaspora.
