MIRAMAR – The inaugural in-person Better of Jamaica Awards Celebration happened on Thursday, December 12, 2024, on the gorgeous Miramar Cultural Heart Gardens, bringing collectively the Jamaican diaspora for an unforgettable night of recognition, cultural pleasure, and group connection. Hosted by Miramar Commissioner Yvette Colbourne, the occasion honored excellent achievements throughout the worldwide Jamaican group, marking a big milestone for this celebrated platform.
Regardless that it was chilly, visitors loved the night in model. Many wore layers of vivid Jamaican colours to point out their pleasure. For 25 years, the Better of Jamaica Awards, curated by Jamaicans.com, have spotlighted the very best in Jamaican tradition on-line. This primary in-person occasion turned the celebration right into a full of life and stylish gathering. It additionally marked the twenty ninth anniversary of Jamaicans.com, a serious achievement for this necessary platform.
Commissioner Yvette Colbourne began the occasion with a heat welcome. She expressed Miramar’s pleasure in internet hosting a celebration for the Jamaican diaspora. Commissioner Maxwell B. Chambers additionally addressed the viewers, reaffirming the town’s dedication to uplifting and celebrating the achievements of the group.
Individuals’s Alternative Media Persona of the 12 months
Among the many notable winners was Simone Clarke, named Individuals’s Alternative Media Persona of the 12 months. Flying in from Kingston, Jamaica, to just accept her award, Clarke delivered a heartfelt response, reflecting on how deeply humbled and honored she felt to be acknowledged by the diaspora. “This isn’t simply an award for me—it’s a celebration of our tradition and the tales we proceed to share and amplify throughout the globe,” she remarked, visibly moved by the second.
Particular person of the 12 months
The occasion additionally celebrated Sheryl Lee Ralph as Person of the Year. Though unable to attend in particular person, Ralph despatched a heartfelt and galvanizing video message that obtained wild applause from the viewers. Accepting the award on her behalf, Angella Donawa expressed how honored she was to obtain it for her pricey buddy, noting, “Sheryl’s dedication to excellence and her unwavering illustration of Jamaican tradition and pleasure are nothing in need of extraordinary. It’s a privilege to face right here on her behalf.”
Better of Jamaica Awards Honorees
Honorees from across the globe graced the occasion with their presence. Steven “Sir Rockwell” Warner, acknowledged as Media Persona, and Sidonia and Namamous Osbourne, promoters of the Atlanta Bless Music Fest, have been amongst those that traveled to just accept their awards. Hope Wade, who was chosen because the Judges’ Choose for Jamaican Trend Icon 2024. Christopher Alexander, co-owner of Butter Flakes Bakery & Grill, obtained the award for Greatest Jamaican Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, whereas Allan Daisley of Kingston Artistic accepted the award for Greatest Vacationer Attraction in Jamaica, celebrating their iconic murals that encourage and captivate guests.
Better of Jamaica Awards Sponsors
The night’s success wouldn’t have been doable with out the beneficiant help of sponsors:
- Metropolis of Miramar
- Jamaica Vacationer Board
- Victoria Mutual Constructing Society
- Western Union
- GraceKennedy Restricted
The night’s leisure embodied the vibrancy of Jamaican music and tradition. Adrianna Clarke opened with transferring renditions of Candy Jamaica and The Christmas Music, whereas Sons of Mystro enchanted the viewers with their mix of mento, reggae, and vacation classics.
Reggae artist Ed Robinson introduced the gang to its ft along with his soulful set, highlighted by a robust rendition of Knocking on Heaven’s Door, joined on stage by Consul Common Oliver Mair in an electrifying second of unity.
Reflecting on the success of the occasion, Jamaicans.com founder Xavier Murphy remarked, “This night was every part we dreamed of and extra. To see our Jamaican tradition celebrated in particular person, with such ardour and pleasure, is actually humbling. The Better of Jamaica Awards should not nearly recognizing excellence—they’re about bringing our group collectively to share within the pleasure of our heritage. We’re excited to take this celebration to New York subsequent yr and proceed to honor the unimaginable contributions of the diaspora.”
Tradition and Satisfaction
The primary in-person Better of Jamaica Awards was greater than only a celebration. It confirmed the power, pleasure, and unity of the Jamaican group. The attendees mirrored on the night time’s successes and connections. It was clear that this occasion was necessary for celebrating Jamaican excellence.
