The Sunshine Awards will make their first appearance in St. Maarten this fall, bringing the Caribbean honours program to the island for its 38th annual presentation.
The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Aleeze Convention and Event Hall at 117 A.T. Illidge Road, Madame Estate, Sint Maarten. The event begins at 6:00 p.m.
Gil Figaro, the Trinidadian born founder and chairman of the Teaneck, NJ based Sunshine Awards Organization, said the decision followed a special invitation from the St. Maarten Friendship Association.
Figaro said he visited the island and held meetings with government officials, business executives, tourism representatives and community leaders before agreeing to bring the awards to St. Maarten.
“From the moment I arrived in St. Maarten, I was deeply impressed by the warmth of its people, the strength of its community spirit, and the pride its citizens have in their island,” Figaro said.
For nearly four decades, the Sunshine Awards has recognized individuals, organizations and institutions for contributions to cultural, educational, humanitarian and economic development across the Caribbean and its Diaspora. Figaro said the program has become a symbol of excellence, service, leadership, culture and achievement.
The black tie event will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by the awards presentation and live entertainment. Errol Fabien and Nikki Crosby will host the evening.
Among the featured performers will be St. Maarten musicians King T MO and King Beau Beau, both former Sunshine Awards recipients. Figaro said their appearances will highlight the island’s musical heritage.
Internationally acclaimed Caribbean jazz pianist John Arnold is also scheduled to perform. Arnold, a cultural ambassador of Tobago, is a performer, producer, composer and musical director, as well as director and producer of the Signal Hill Alumni Choir.
Another featured act will be the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Band Women’s Contingent. The 18 member ensemble will appear in full ceremonial uniform.
Figaro said the organization is proud to partner with St. Maarten and described the event as an opportunity to celebrate excellence, achievement and community service while showcasing the island’s culture and hospitality.
“The 38th Annual Sunshine Awards promises to be more than an awards ceremony,” Figaro said. “It will be a celebration of Caribbean pride, unity and culture.”
He urged residents and visitors to attend what he described as a historic occasion and said further announcements about honourees, performers, special guests and activities will be made in the coming weeks.
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