The City of Tamarac is set to honor two globally recognised Haitian-born figures, Wyclef Jean and Melky Jean, during a special Key to the City reception on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Hosted by Vice Mayor Marlon D. Bolton, the ceremony will take place at Tamarac City Hall in Florida at 12:00 noon, as part of celebrations marking Haitian American Heritage Month.
The event will recognise the siblings’ far-reaching contributions to music, business, philanthropy and cultural leadership, highlighting their influence across multiple industries and communities worldwide.
The ceremony will also feature proclamations from state and county officials. Florida State Representative Lisa Dunkley is expected to declare May 1, 2026, as Wyclef and Melky Jean Day across the state.
At the county level, Broward County Commissioners Hazelle P. Rogers and Alexandra P. Davis will issue a similar proclamation and present the honourees with the Key to Broward County.
Vice Mayor Bolton will then confer Tamarac’s highest civic honour — the Key to the City — on the pair.
Global impact in music and beyond
Wyclef Jean rose to international prominence as a founding member of Fugees, whose multi-platinum album The Score helped define a generation. As a solo artist, producer and songwriter, he has been behind some of the most recognisable hits in modern music, including Gone Till November, Hips Don’t Lie, Maria, Maria, and My Love Is Your Love.
Over the years, he has collaborated with major global acts such as Michael Jackson, Carlos Santana, Beyoncé and Paul Simon, while also earning multiple Grammy Awards.
Beyond music, Jean has remained active in philanthropy, education and emerging technology, positioning himself as an advocate for global empowerment.
Spotlight on Melky Jean’s humanitarian work
Melky Jean has carved out her own legacy through humanitarian work and entrepreneurship. As founder of The Carma Foundation, she has spearheaded initiatives focused on food security, healthcare access, housing, education and women’s empowerment across several regions, including Haiti, South America and Africa.
Her efforts have earned international recognition, including the Memeluca Beacon of Hope Award presented by Sean Penn, along with honours from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Global Heart Award.
She also serves as founder and CEO of Saint Sauveur Haitian Heritage Rum, a company that promotes Haitian culture and economic empowerment through entrepreneurship.
A Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter, Melky Jean has collaborated with a range of international artists and contributed to recordings, film scores and live performances.
City officials say the event will serve as a tribute to Haitian excellence, resilience and cultural impact, bringing together residents, media and invited guests for what is expected to be a high-profile celebration.
