July 25 :::: Jamaica independence Annual Gala
✨Save the Date: Jamaica Foundation of Houston Independence Gala | Houston Scholarship Fundraiser
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston Annual Gala
Saturday, July 25, 2026
Chateau Crystale
2517 S. Gessner Rd, Houston, TX
Join us for an elegant evening celebrating Jamaica’s 64th Independence Day, a night filled with cultural pride, community spirit, and unforgettable entertainment. Our event features exquisite catering and captivating live performances, creating a vibrant cultural celebration that brings our community together. These inspiring moments not only entertain but also serve to support and advance our mission, fostering a sense of unity, appreciation, and shared purpose.
Venue
Parking
Complimentary on-site parking is available for Gala guests at Chateau Crystale. We encourage guests to arrive early to enjoy the reception, silent auction, and networking before the program begins.
Please arrive at the gala by 6:30 pm to mingle before the event begins promptly at 7:00 pm. The evening’s schedule includes dinner at 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm, dancing starting at 9 pm, and the auction closing at 11:00 pm.
Discover the delectable menu offered by Château Cristale In-House Catering, featuring a variety of flavorful options to suit every palate. Guests can enjoy a choice of salads, hot hors d’oeuvres, and entrées, including both seafood and savory vegetarian dishes, all complemented by a selection of starches. Complete your meal with decadent desserts like chocolate cake and cheesecake, along with refreshing drinks such as water, punch, coffee, and tea for a truly memorable dining experience.
Event History
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Independence Gala has been a cherished tradition for more than 60 years, celebrating Jamaica’s independence while raising funds for scholarships and community programs. The Gala brings together supporters, sponsors, and community leaders for an evening of culture, entertainment, and philanthropy.
Why Scholarships Matter
Education changes lives. Every Gala ticket, sponsorship, silent auction donation, and souvenir booklet advertisement helps provide scholarships to deserving college students, empowering the next generation of leaders to pursue their academic and career goals.
Photos
Browse highlights from past Jamaica Foundation of Houston Independence Galas and experience the energy, elegance, and community spirit that make this event so memorable. From cultural performances to scholarship presentations, our photo gallery captures the best moments of the evening.
View last year’s gala photographs (click here)
See us on
Entertainment
We’re excited to welcome The Bayou City Brass Band back to the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s 64th Independence Gala! Get ready for an unforgettable evening as this highly energetic, internationally touring band brings the house down with their signature blend of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and New Orleans second line music. Their incredible musicianship, choreographed performances, and nonstop energy will have you on your feet all night long!
DJ Paul Notch, also known as DJ Sugar Notch, returns to the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Independence Gala to keep the celebration alive with an exciting mix of reggae, dancehall, soca, and Caribbean favorites. A longtime favorite with Houston’s Caribbean community, his energetic sets and crowd-pleasing style create the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and Jamaican pride. We are thrilled to welcome him back for another year of exceptional entertainment.
Sponsors
Our sponsors make this event possible. Their generous support helps fund scholarships, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs throughout the year. We proudly recognize the businesses and individuals who invest in our mission and invite new sponsors to partner with us.
FAQs
Have questions about the Gala? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions section for information about tickets, attire, parking, sponsorships, silent auction donations, event schedule, and more to help you plan your evening.
Keynote Speaker
Each year, the Gala features an inspiring keynote speaker who shares insights on leadership, community, education, and service. Their message celebrates achievement while encouraging future generations to pursue excellence and make a positive impact.
Our keynote speaker this year is Janay Henry. Janay Henry is an entrepreneur and co-owner of Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill in Houston, Texas. Together with her husband, Chef Terron Henry, she founded the restaurant in 2009 with a vision of sharing the authentic flavors, hospitality, and vibrant culture of Jamaica with the Houston community. Under their leadership, Cool Runnings has grown into one of the city’s most recognized Caribbean restaurants, earning national attention through appearances on the Food Network while becoming a beloved gathering place for food lovers and the Jamaican diaspora. A dedicated business leader and community advocate, Janay is passionate about entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and giving back through service and support of educational and community initiatives.
Emcee
Mistress of Ceremonies (MC) Samantha Hughes will serve as the evening’s emcee, bringing her warmth, professionalism, and engaging presence as she guides guests through an unforgettable celebration of Jamaican culture, community, and scholarship.
Ticket Information
Reserve your place at the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s 64th Independence Gala Scholarship Fundraiser. Advance tickets are $100 per person ($120 at the door), or reserve a table of eight for $800. Purchase your tickets early to secure your seat for this special evening of celebration, culture, and community impact.
The organization’s Annual Independence Gala is our premier event that brings together the community to celebrate Jamaica’s independence and raise funds for scholarships. Through the years, from the inception of the Annual Scholarship Program in 1985, the Jamaica Foundation and its predecessor organization has awarded more than 300 scholarships, and recipients have gone on to graduate and become respected professionals in their chosen communities.
1) Pay via Zeffy online3) Pay by Zelle/QuickPay to JamaicaFoundationHouston@gmail.com (include a memo)
✨Advertise in our gala booklet and connect with potential customers who care about making an impact. Learn more (click here)
View last year’s online booklet version Access the Souvenir Booklet Contract Read more about the Gala Souvenir Booklet
Silent Auction
Would you like to support our auction? We are organizing a silent auction with items donated by local businesses and individuals. This can include items like artwork, gift cards, or unique experiences. The proceeds from the auction can go towards supporting programs and initiatives for the Jamaica Foundation of Houston.
Email us about your donation to our silent auction at jamaicafoundationhouston@gmail.com
During the gala, enter the drawing for your chance to win a prize! The winner will be announced at the gala. You do not have to be present to win. All proceeds benefit the Jamaica Foundation of Houston.
Youth Group
Many thanks to Sharon Anglin for her dedicated leadership of our Youth Group, whose inspiring gala performances continue to showcase the talent, pride, and promise of the next generation.
Board of Directors
Thanks to our dedicated Board of Directors—President Dr. Nicole Bent Jones, Vice President Mr. Errol Anglin, Treasurer Ms. Judith Drummond, Secretary Dr. Cameon McKenzie Reid, Directors Mr. Peter Ford, Ms. Karlene Rose, and Dr. Camille Gibson—along with our esteemed Honorary Advisors, Former Honorable Mrs. Beverly Ford and Mr. Andy Adams, for their steadfast leadership and commitment to our mission.
