Legendary reggae matriarch, philanthropist, and cultural icon Dr Rita Marley was honoured with the Humanitarian Award at the Jamaica Independence Grand Gala ’63.

Marley was among eight outstanding persons honoured at the event hosted at the Marriott Marquis in Manhattan on August 23, by Consul General to New York, Alsion Wilson.

Other honourees are James Alston, Patricia ‘Miss Pat’ Chin, Henry ‘Larry’ Duffus, Gregory Fisher, Dr Anthony E Munroe, Adam Stewart, and Audrey Tugwell Henry. The celebration brought together leaders, creatives, and members of the Jamaican diaspora to recognise Marley’s lifelong commitment to service, empowerment, and cultural preservation.

The evening featured a moving musical tribute led by daughter, Sharon Marley, who delivered a stellar live performance in honour of her mother, blending timeless classics with heartfelt emotion. Celebrated singer Nadine Sutherland also graced the stage, offering her own powerful rendition of Rita Marley’s most beloved songs, ensuring the spirit of the Reggae Queen filled the room.

Adding to the depth of the tribute, Donisha Prendergast, Rita Marley’s granddaughter, filmmaker, and activist, shared a deeply personal and affirming speech about her grandmother’s humble beginnings and unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of the underserved. Prendergast reminded attendees of Rita Marley’s role as not only a musical pioneer but also a humanitarian whose work has transformed countless lives across Jamaica and the world.

One of the evening’s key highlights was the announcement of fundraising efforts in support of the Rita Marley Girls’ Centre (RMGC), a vital initiative dedicated to providing education, skills training, mentorship, and safe, nurturing spaces for young women in Trench Town and the West Kingston region. The RMGC is envisioned as more than a physical facility; it is conceived as a movement to uplift, educate, and inspire young women across Jamaica. Through its programs, girls will receive life-skills training, academic support, and mentorship aimed at breaking socioeconomic barriers and cultivating future leaders.

In addition to the RMGC, the Gala fundraiser will also benefit:

• Scholarships for Jamaican tertiary students entering their final year of study.
• The Jamaica Cancer Society, to enhance breast cancer screening and education initiatives.
• The Rita Marley Foundation Centre for Girls, empowering young women through education and mentorship.
• The Rose Town Foundation, driving community development and upliftment.

Consul General Alsion Wilson praised Marley as the Matriarch of the Marley family and a key component in the preservation of Jamaican Reggae Music. She reflected on the Matriarch’s enduring impact, noting that her humanitarian contributions stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Jamaica, Africa and her diaspora. The Gala closed on a high note, with attendees united in celebration of Rita Marley’s extraordinary journey, one rooted in resilience, service, and the unshakable belief that music and community can change lives.