Adam Stewart and Sheryl Lee Ralph to be honoured at AFJ 2026 Hummingbird Gala
NEW YORK, United States — The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) will host its 2026 Hummingbird Gala on Friday, October 16 at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, where it will honour individuals who have made significant contributions to Jamaica and its people.
According to a release from the AFJ, Prime Minister Andrew Holness will attend the gala, which will celebrate the enduring ties between Jamaica and the United States.
This year, the AFJ will present the International Achievement Award to Adam Stewart, CD, Hon LLD, executive chairman of Sandals Resorts, and the International Humanitarian Award to Sheryl Lee Ralph, OJ, Hon, Emmy Award-winning actress, president and CEO of The DIVA Foundation.
Stewart is being honoured for decades of institution-building and business leadership that has created a legacy beyond Jamaica and the Caribbean. Through the Sandals Foundation, We Care Foundation, and Sandals Corporate University, he has channelled tens of millions of dollars into healthcare, education and disaster recovery across Jamaica.
Ralph is being honoured for championing HIV/AIDS awareness at a time when the disease carried devastating stigma, and for her recent focus on supporting Chantilly Primary School in Manchester, her mother Ivy Ralph’s alma mater. She is also being recognised for her decades-long career in film, television and Broadway, while remaining a visible ambassador for her Jamaican heritage.
The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and auction of exclusive items and experiences, followed by dinner, the introduction of the honourees and entertainment.
The event will feature a performance by reggae and dancehall pioneer Sister Nancy and her brother Brigadier Jerry, showcasing Jamaican culture.
The AFJ supports education, healthcare and economic development initiatives across Jamaica through grants and partnerships with local organisations.
Tickets for the 2026 Hummingbird Gala are available, with individual tickets and tables of 10 being offered. Sponsorship information is available through the AFJ.
