IN a room filled with enthusiastic team members, Sandals Resorts leaders from across the Caribbean, celebrity guests, and an electrifying atmosphere, the company awarded two standout team members US$10,000 for creating the jingle that has become the anthem of the brand’s “Service DNA”.

This Service DNA represents the genetic code that shapes the mindset, behaviours, culture, and systems behind the signature Sandals experience — a theme underscored earlier during the company’s first group-wide town hall of 2026, led by Executive Chairman Adam Stewart.

At the town hall, Stewart provided team members with key updates, including progress on hurricane recovery efforts and several exciting new developments across the Sandals portfolio.

With updates delivered and the room brimming with anticipation, he queued the “lights and action”, shifting the spotlight to the finale of the company’s first-ever Resort Riddims competition held recently.

This group-wide initiative invited team members, months earlier, to write and perform an original song highlighting the values embodied in the company’s DNA.

The response was extraordinary. More than 100 entries poured in from Sandals and Beaches Resorts team members across the Caribbean, highlighting incredible talent and friendly rivalry.

After a thrilling preliminary round at each location across the nine countries in which the company operates, the competition culminated in a vibrant live show in Jamaica. The top four performances emerged from Grenada, Jamaica, and The Bahamas.

The grand finale transformed the conference area of Sandals Ochi Beach Resort into a full-scale performance studio — complete with big screens, colourful stage lighting, and sparkler fountains — setting the tone for an unforgettable evening of music, camaraderie, and competition.

The event was made even more memorable with celebrity appearances from reggae/dancehall singer Christopher Martin and Soca star Alison Hinds, who served as judges alongside Stewart.

Following captivating performances from the finalists, it was the dynamic duo Brent McMeo and Ahkim Baptiste of Sandals Grenada who won over both the judges and the audience. Their melodic, feel-good Caribbean song, The Sandals Way, earned them the grand prize of US$10,000.

“This winning song is now our official Service DNA anthem — a rallying call for every team member who shows up every day to create Caribbean moments that last a lifetime,” said Corporate Manager of Employee Experience Jamie Green.

After the applause settled, the evening took an even more heartfelt turn. Stewart rewarded the artistry and effort of all the finalists with an unexpected gift.

“What amazing talent every one of you exemplified and for that we think it is fitting that each of you get a Sandals holiday with your loved ones, with airfare, where you will be treated the way you deserve. We will VIP you all the way. You’ll be in butler suites, and we’re going to remind you how appreciative we are. I am grateful for this whole journey. You’re all rockstars,” Stewart shared.

Beyond the excitement, the competition carried a deeper purpose. Resort Riddims was an initiative developed by the company’s Experience Department and its twin divisions — Customer Experience, which elevates the guest journey, and Employee Experience, which empowers the team members who deliver those moments.

“That’s what Service DNA is all about — equipping our teams with clear, measurable tools that celebrate the individuality and warmth of Caribbean hospitality. It represents a cultural reset for our brand. It is our commitment to returning to the foundations of who we are, while strengthening how we deliver genuine Caribbean moments to our guests and to each other,” said Regional Manager of Customer Experience for Jamaica Kareema Plummer.

Reggae singer Christopher Martin (left), Sandals Executive Chairman Adam Stewart (centre), and soca star Alison Hinds are a picture of focus while serving as judges during the recently held Resort Riddims competition.

Team members in the audience at the Resort Riddims live finale at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort cheer on their favourite contestants.

Executive chairman of Sandals Resorts Adam Stewart shares key updates during its first group town hall meeting for 2026.

Finalists of the Resort Riddims competition wait eagerly for the judges to announce the winner.