The Jamaica Organisation of New Jersey (JON-J) will launch its 2025 Independence celebration with its annual Awards of Excellence and Gala on Saturday, July 19, at Hanover Manor in East Hanover.

The event, a signature moment on the Jamaican Diaspora calendar, will honour standout community leaders and raise funds for JON-J’s charitable projects in the U.S. and Jamaica. This year’s honorees represent excellence across diverse fields and unwavering commitment to community upliftment. 

Former Northeast USA diaspora representative Dr. Karren Dunkley will deliver the keynote address and receive the education and public service award. Other honorees are Lynval James for public and community service, Jacqueline Lewis for health and community service and Elaine Matthews, for community service.

Each of the awardees has made a lasting impact through advocacy, mentorship, and humanitarian work. More than just a celebration, the JON-J gala is a call to action. All proceeds support the organisation’s charitable initiatives, including disaster relief in the Caribbean and New Jersey, college scholarships for local young people, food pantries, and aid to underserved schools across Jamaica.

Founded in 1998, JON-J is a nonprofit organisation committed to strengthening the bond between the Jamaican diaspora and the broader community. The July 19 gala will feature live cultural presentations, exciting door prizes, a “tricky tray” auction, and infectious rhythms from Massive B Sound System, culminating in a high-spirited celebration of heritage and hope.

President of the JON-J Board of Trustees, Valerie Bailey, Esq., commented, “We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on these outstanding individuals, who exemplify the very best of our culture and our values as we raise funds for our charitable efforts. Their dedication to service, both here in the USA and in Jamaica, reminds us that wherever we are in the world, we carry the heart of our homeland with us and can make a difference.”