Patricia Chin Honored at American Friends of Jamaica Humming Bird Gala- Recipient of Humanitarian Award at the Prestigious Annual Event

On Friday, October 26, 2018, Co-founder of VP Records, Patricia Chin was honored with a prestigious International Humanitarian Award at American Friends of Jamaica’s (AFJ) 2018 Hummingbird Gala. Held at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, the evening provided opportunity for the Diaspora community, supporters and friends with an interest in Jamaica to provide financial resources to vulnerable Jamaicans in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. VP Records also served as a proud sponsor of the prestigious annual event.

The evening began with a silent auction while guests mingled and convened before the program began. During the program, Master of Ceremonies, Ruschell Boone of NY1 introduced AFJ’s annual vignette showcasing the year’s work of transformative programs in Jamaica. Commentary from AFJ president Wendy Hart and Executive Director Caron Chung then led to a live auction where a total of $400K was raised. They then introduced the two Humanitarian awards for the evening, beginning with President of Real Estate Development and Management company, A.J. Dwoskin & Associates Inc., Mr. Albert J. Dwoskin.

While receiving her award, Patricia Chin stated “I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight and supporting Friends of Jamaica and I am honored to receive the Hummingbird Humanitarian Award.” When Patricia Chin, also known as Miss Pat, is not busy with helping run her label VP Records, she takes care of her many charities including her passion project with Alpha Boys School in Kingston Jamaica, where she helps to raise funds to keep the more than century old institution thriving and well.

The night concluded with live music from Dancehall Legend Johnny Osbourne, UK Singer and Songwriter Estelle, International Reggae MegaStar Tarrus Riley, TTO Band with LeRoy Graham Jr., Andy Bassford, Dean Fraser, Kyle Graham and more. International Reggae/Dancehall DJ, Max Glazer spun the latest tunes. Special guests in attendance included Reggae superstar Busy Signal, Chris Blackwell and more.

Photos by Ajamu Myrie

To left photo: Patricia Chin with Mr. Albert J. Dwoskin. Both recipients Humanitarian Award

Top right photo: Patricia Chin with Tarrus Riley

Bottom photo: Tarrus Riley and Estelle perform “Love Like Ours” from Estelle’s “Lovers Rock” album

AFJ’s annual Galas attract diverse individuals who have special bonds of friendship with the people of Jamaica. Former honorees include Joseph Matalon, Chairman ICD, Vincent HoSang, President Caribbean Food Delights, Cecil Sam Wright, President Quality AutoMall, Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia, Gary “Butch” Hendrickson, National Continental Baking Company, Lowell Hawthorne, GoldenKrust, Dennis Lalor, ICWI, Kenny Benjamin, Guardsman Group, Denis O’Brien, Digicel, Ralph and Ricky Lauren, Harry Belafonte and others. To date, the AFJ has presented grants of over US$14M. The AFJ demonstrates the power of collaboration to engage with and to support residents of underserved Jamaican communities. 2018 Hummingbird Gala sponsors include A. J. Dwoskin & Associates, VP Records, jetBlue, ADA Music 25 and Vanessa Noel.

“The Gala was an extraordinary opportunity to experience stellar artists in an intimate setting while showing support for the mission of the AFJ” stated AFJ Executive Director, Caron Chung.

About the AFJ

Founded in 1982, the American Friends of Jamaica is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization built on the principles of service and philanthropy and is established to give assistance in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic development. The AFJ works in a collaborative effort with Jamaican organizations and stakeholders to bring about change in the lives of Jamaicans who need a hand up. The AFJ has partnered in providing shelter to the homeless, education to inner-city youth, healthcare to individuals and equipment to health facilities. The AFJ annual grant cycle begins the first Friday in November each year and grants are disbursed at the end of the first quarter in April the following year. Contributions are tax deductible as provided by law.