Prime Minister Andrew Holness will address Jamaica’s 61st Independence anniversary gala in the ‘Big Apple’ at the New York Hilton Midtown in Manhattan on August 19.

The annual Independence Gala is an opportunity for New York and its massive Jamaican diaspora population to celebrate the island’s rich culture and heritage.

The event is being hosted by the Consulate General of Jamaica, New York in partnership with the Jamaica’s Promise Foundation. The goal of the event is to bring together Jamaicans and friends of country in recognition of the nation’s independence, while supporting various causes at home through the generosity of the attendees.

Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alsion Wilson, who heads the planning committee says, “the 2023 gala will serve as a platform to support charitable causes in Jamaica, focusing on education, healthcare, and community development.”

She spoke about the stellar lineup of honorees for this year, who have “demonstrated unwavering commitment, remarkable talent and unparalleled contributions in their respective fields.”

List of honourees

The honourees comprise: Grammy award-winning recording artiste and philanthropist Orville ‘Shaggy’ Burrell; Stephen Facey, chairman of Pan Jamaica Group; Dr. Rosemarie Ingleton, dermatologist and entrepreneur; Marc Jerome, president of Monroe College in New York; Marlon Lindsay, CEO of 21 Cent Ed; Sheryl Lee Ralph, award-winning actress; and Ruel Stephenson, assistant chief of the New York Police Department.

Shaggy is being honored for “being an international cultural icon in reggae music and philanthropy, Facey will be presented with the award for “business leadership and the development of Jamaica” while Dr. Ingleton will be honored with the Jamaica Independence Award for “Woman of Excellence in Medicine and Business.”

Jerome will be recognised for “education excellence and the development of Jamaica,” Lindsay will be honored for “leadership in STEM education and entrepreneurship, Ralph will be presented with the Jamaica Independence Award for “outstanding contribution to film and television” and Stephenson will be honored for “leadership in law and enforcement and community development.”

Holness’ message at the gala will spotlight the theme ‘Proud and Strong,’ which perfectly embodies the exceptional achievements of this year’s honorees.