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Massive NY celebration of Usain Bolt, Glen Christian - ... Compliments of American Friends of Jamaica

Published:Sunday | November 3, 2019 | 12:00 AMDerrick Scott - Contributor
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United States Ambassador to Jamaica, Donald Tapia (centre), is flanked by, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Audrey Marks (left) and former United States Ambassador to Jamaica, Brenda Johnson.
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness (centre) shares the spotlight with American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) 2019 International Humanitarian awardees Usain Bolt (second left) and Glenford Christian (second right). Others joining in are President of AFJ Wendy Hart and Executive Director of AFJ Caron Chung.
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AFJ gala guest Mikaela Blackwood is all smiles as her dream came through in meeting the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt.
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Gorgeous gowns: Aretha Blake (left), Executive Associate, Consulate of New York and Celia O’Gilvie, CEO of Caring Hands Healthcare Services strike a pose for the camera at the AFJ Gala.
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Men In Black. From left: Andrew Sang, Dr Maurice Miles, Ronald McKay and Lloyd Anderson looking quite dapper!
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From left: Alexis Penna-McKay, Dr Trudy Hall, Helena Sang and Frances Fulton, elegantly dressed for the occasion.
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From left: Former New York City Councilwoman Una Clarke; President of Hanover Charities, Vanessa Nole; Jamaica’s Ambassador for Investment and Philanthropy, Paula Kerr-Jarrett Wegman; and Mr Noel Mignot, President and CEO of PM Group.
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Numbering more than 500 altogether, friends of Jamaica and Jamaicans turned out for the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) 2019 Hummingbird Gala at Cipriani in Manhattan, New York, on Friday October 25, to celebrate the honourees, Usain Bolt and Dr Glenford Christian.

Prime minister, Andrew Holness, headed the list of dignitaries, who included Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States (US), Audrey Marks; United States Ambassador to Jamaica Donald Tapia; as well as former US ambassadors to Jamaica.

The main highlight of the evening’s event was the presentation of the AFJ’s International Humanitarian Award to two icons – Usain Bolt and Dr Glenford Christian – for the outstanding impact they have had on philanthropy.

Showcasing AFJ’s work in Jamaica, the gala also celebrated the two extraordinary honourees for their achievements in their respective fields – sports for Bolt, and medical supplies and pharmaceuticals for Christian – as well as in philanthropy. A solid musical package, compliments of the legendary Toots and The Maytals and singing sensation Christopher Martin, ensured patrons ended the evening very well satisfied.

Here are the highlights.