THE American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) raised more than US$900,000 ($143 million) in total donor support at its 2026 Hummingbird Gala on Friday, surpassing its fund-raising target as supporters gathered in New York to celebrate two distinguished Jamaicans and contribute to the organisation’s work across the island.

Held at The Plaza, the annual gala brought together diplomats, business leaders, philanthropists, members of the Jamaican Diaspora, and friends of Jamaica.

Among those attending were Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness and Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett.

Executive chairman of Sandals Resort International and the Jamaica Observer Adam Stewart, and Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, were honoured during the evening which also featured performances by reggae and dancehall pioneers Sister Nancy and Brigadier Jerry.

Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, recipient of the 2026 AFJ International Achievement Award, giving his acceptance speech. (Photos: Salamander Productions)

Stewart received the International Achievement Award, presented by Holness, in recognition of his leadership in Caribbean tourism, business and philanthropy. In accepting the award he reflected on the legacy of his father, Sandals founder Gordon “Butch” Stewart, who started the company with a 99-room hotel in Montego Bay in 1981.

“It is the greatest honour for my family, for myself, [and] my father before me, to be able to get up every day and tell the world about the magic and the gift that is Jamaica land,” Stewart said.

Ralph received the International Humanitarian Award from Bartlett in recognition of her career in entertainment and her advocacy through the DIVA Foundation, particularly in HIV/AIDS awareness.

Recalling learning Jamaica’s national anthem as a child, she urged those attending to look beyond the island’s appeal as a holiday destination.

“Don’t just love Jamaica for your vacation.

Love Jamaica for the people.

Love Jamaica for our culture.

Love Jamaica for our food.

Love Jamaica for our music,” said Ralph.

The Hummingbird Gala is AFJ’s principal annual fund-raising event, with proceeds supporting its work in Jamaica.

This year’s event took place as the organisation continues to assist communities affected by Hurricane Melissa while maintaining its wider programmes.

Mark Newman, AFJ board director and incoming president, said the organisation works closely with Jamaican partners to ensure donations are used where they are most needed.

American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Executive Director Caron Chung introduces a video presentation highlighting the organisation’s work, during the 2026 Hummingbird Gala at The Plaza in New York.

“The unique aspect about AFJ is that we provide a great platform to take US donations and connect them with Jamaican NGOs and business partners so as not to duplicate efforts but employ resources in the most efficient way so every donor dollar has the highest impact on the ground in Jamaica,” Newman said.

Since Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica in October 2025, AFJ has mobilised nearly US$12 million in cash and in-kind contributions for relief and recovery, with more than 60 per cent of funds raised for hurricane relief already deployed.

Working with local partners, the organisation has helped families repair damaged roofs, supported the restoration of schools and health clinics, and helped farmers restart production.

AFJ President Wendy Hart and Executive Director Caron Chung spoke about donor response and the importan of working with organisations in Jamaica that understand their communities’ needs.

Hart, who was attending her final Hummingbird Gala as president after 11 years in the role, thanked supporters for their contributions over the years and welcomed Newman as her successor.

Holness commended AFJ for its work in Jamaica, particularly its assistance to communities recovering from Hurricane Melissa.

“For more than four decades AFJ has turned affection for our country into action for our people.

Behind every contribution is a human possibility — a child with a better chance to learn, a patient with access to care, a family finding its way,” he said.

“I want to express, therefore, on behalf of the Government of Jamaica and the people of Jamaica, our sincere appreciation to the American Friends of Jamaica,” added Holness.

The evening also included a live auction and pledge drive, along with the launch of ‘To Jamaica, With Love’, AFJ’s year-end fund-raising campaign.

Running through to December 31, 2026, the campaign will use personal stories, letters and postcards from Jamaica to encourage continued giving from the Diaspora and international supporters.