American Friends of Jamaica to honour Adam Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph at New York gala

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) will honour Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman Adam Stewart and Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph at its 2026 Hummingbird Gala in New York City on October 16.

The gala will be held at The Plaza Hotel and will celebrate the longstanding ties between Jamaica and the United States. Prime Minister Andrew Holness is expected to attend, according to the AFJ.

Stewart will receive the AFJ’s International Achievement Award for his contributions to business and institution-building in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

Through the Sandals Foundation, We Care Foundation and Sandals Corporate University, Stewart has supported initiatives in healthcare, education and disaster recovery in Jamaica.

Ralph will receive the International Humanitarian Award for her work raising awareness of HIV/AIDS and supporting education and community initiatives in Jamaica.

She has also supported Chantilly Primary School in Manchester, her mother Ivy Ralph’s alma mater. Ralph is being recognised alongside her decades-long career in film, television and Broadway and her advocacy for Jamaican heritage.

The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and auction, followed by dinner, the presentation of the awards and entertainment.

Reggae and dancehall pioneer Sister Nancy and her brother Brigadier Jerry are scheduled to perform, highlighting Jamaican music and culture.

The AFJ supports education, healthcare and economic development projects across Jamaica through grants and partnerships with local organisations.

Tickets and tables for the gala are available through the organisation, which is also accepting sponsorships.