Jamaican anime and manga lovers turned out in their numbers for the Valentine’s Day themed Daisuki! event put on by Animeyado on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Campion College, St Andrew.

“Daisuki! went extremely well. We had a very large turnout. A lot of vendors came out. In fact, it was twice the amount of vendors than the last time. So, I’m extremely proud of everybody that supported the event, whether it was our staff, our media team, and those that assisted us with the activities. I really appreciated them all,” Ashley Smith of Animeyado told the
Jamaica Observer.

It was an action-packed day with plenty to see and do across the intersecting genres of Asian and video game culture for attending patrons. When done indulging from the many tables of Japanese and Korean pop culture items for sale, fans also had video game, trivia, eating, and even archery challenges to keep fully engage their interest. In keeping with the Valentine’s Day theme, there was speed dating, done blind, Gojo-style.

The centrepiece of Daisuki! continues to be the cosplay competition, which was won by Tonique Tate. The rookie cosplayer was at a loss for words with her victory, especially given the fact that she had no intention of actually entering the competition.

“A friend said that if I pay for you would you go, and I said fine I’ll go,” said Tate.

Dressed as Matsuri from the popular anime
Demon Slayer, she won the attention of the judges and the fans. A self-professed long-time lover of Asian pop culture Tate put together the costume with her grandmother’s help over a three-week period.

“I’m very shocked and happy to have won. I’ve never been in a cosplay competition. I once took part in a kimono event. I enjoyed this experience and am shocked and happy to see that the hard work by my grandmother and I paid off. I was nice,” said Tate.

Smith said her team is focused on their next branded event Edo Tensei later in the year. They are also looking to expand and host a bigger event with a major partner.

“We have something planned in June. It’s actually a surprise. We’re working with a partner to facilitate a large-scale event. So we’re hoping that everything works out. If it’s not for this year then it will definitely be for the next,” said Smith.