Ricardo Carter, chairman and director, AnimeCom Fest, labelled the recent staging of the Asian pop culture event a success as it transitioned to its largest venue to date, the National Arena, St Andrew.

“The move was a success. We really appreciated the turnout, and we had a lot of partners this year. I believe that we’ve tapped into a phenomenon, a current global trend that is setting a different dynamic of entertainment and art. We loved it and it was great. We have to give thanks,” Carter told the Jamaica Observer.

Running for two days, from August 9 – 10, AnimeCom Fest continued to do what it does best, which is celebrate everything Asian pop culture and anchor the community to the real world by showing off the creativity and entrepreneurship contained within it.

Beyond the vendors selling pre-made anime, manga, videogame, and K-pop-themed swag, many home-grown items were on the expo floor at a similar quality. Once browsing the easily accessible rows of goods was done, patrons had a host of activities to keep them busy — video games, vendor competitions, and Asian food items.

Those willing to show their talents could partake in art battles, dance-offs, and a multitude of mini games offered on the main stage throughout the day.

The business of creativity was not missed either, with several workshop panels addressing animation, cosplay, and the content creator space.

However, the contest everyone wanted to see was the Jamaica Cosplay Championship.

Patrons were teased throughout the event as the entrants mixed with casual cosplayers, leaving all on the event floor wondering which amazing cosplay would take part and win the vaunted title.

Much like the venue, the cosplay competitors stepped up to match the grander scale that Carter and his team executed.

For the patrons who stayed to the end, they were greeted by waves of finely crafted designs, but that wasn’t enough, as each entrant had to stamp their mark with their chosen character with a captivating performance.

The man to combine all the elements, Robert Davis, wowed the three judges and fans with his Captain America, as taken from the Marvel Rivals videogame. Davis had previously won in 2023 and indicated that he would retire due to health reasons at the time, but he went on to place third in 2024.

“I said I was going to try it one more time. I placed third last year, and this year I said this is finally it,” said Davis.

He also took home Fan Favourite (Male), receiving $80,000, and will represent Jamaica in the Caribbean Cosplay Championship in Trinidad and Tobago later in the year.

Coming second and taking the Best Performance category was Paul Sibblis. Third place went to Jerome Wilson. Sebastian Thomas completed the top four overall winners, taking home the Best Craftsmanship as well.

Coming second and taking the Best performance category was paul Sibblis. Third place went to Jerome Wilson. sebastian thomas completed the top four overall winners, taking home the best Craftsmanship as well.

Altisha Hylton won the Fan Favourite (Female) and Best Prop. Amanda Hinds was the victor in the Beginner Cosplay and Best Seamstress categories.

Trinidadian cosplayer Panterona, who was the overseas guest for the event, and one of the judges, praised AnimeCom Fest and the quality of Jamaican cosplay.

“I saw really good things, and I’m really excited to see where the cosplay community in Jamaica goes, because I feel that you have a lot of raw talent when it comes to charisma and vibes on the stage,” Panterona said.

The new venue made it more comfortable for the anime-hungry hordes to assemble over the two days of AnimeCom Fest 2025.Rory Daley

Sebastian Thomas (left), who placed fourth, and Paul Sibblis (second) display their awards in the 2025 Jamaica Cosplay Championship.Rory Daley

Ricardo Carter, chairman, AnimecomFest, hands over the Jamaica Cosplay Championship first-place trophy to Robert Davis.Rory Daley

Trinidadian cosplayer Panterona (left) shares a bit of lens time with Jamaican cosplayer Micquella Legister.Rory Daley

Competitors in the junior section of the Jamaica Cosplay Competition shine.Rory Daley