Adam Stewart and Sheryl Lee Ralph to Be Honoured at AFJ 2026 Hummingbird 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, with reggae icon Sister Nancy set to deliver a special performance during the evening

Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman Adam Stewart

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) will host its 2026 Hummingbird Gala on Friday, October 16, at The Plaza Hotel in New York City. The annual event will bring together guests from around the world for an evening of philanthropy, celebration and community, while honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to Jamaica and its people.

The Gala serves as one of AFJ’s major fundraising events, helping to support its annual programmes across Jamaica while recognising the continued generosity of its donors and philanthropic community. Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, is also expected to attend the event.

This year, Adam Stewart, CD, Hon. LLD, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, will receive the International Achievement Award, while Emmy Award-winning actress and President and CEO of The DIVA Foundation, Sheryl Lee Ralph, OJ, Hon., will be presented with the International Humanitarian Award.

Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph

Stewart is being recognised for decades of business leadership and institution-building, as well as his contributions to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. Through the Sandals Foundation, We Care Foundation and Sandals Corporate University, he has helped channel millions of dollars into healthcare, education and disaster recovery initiatives across Jamaica.

Ralph will be honoured for her longstanding humanitarian work, including her advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness and her recent support of Chantilly Primary School in Manchester, the alma mater of her mother, Ivy Ralph. The honour also recognises her decades-long career across film, television and Broadway, while remaining a proud and visible ambassador for her Jamaican heritage.

The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and an auction featuring exclusive items and experiences, followed by a gourmet dinner and the official Gala programme. AFJ President Wendy Hart and Executive Director Caron Chung are among those scheduled to deliver remarks before the presentation of the honourees.

The Gala will close with entertainment and an after-party, including a special performance from pioneering reggae and dancehall artiste Sister Nancy.