We’re still smiling! Highlights from our Annual Gala
July 25 ::::
Jamaica independence Annual Gala
We’re still smiling!
We’re still smiling after the incredible response to the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s 64th Independence Gala Scholarship Fundraiser on Saturday, July 25! The gala was held at the elegant Chateau Crystale, located at 2517 S. Gessner Rd, Houston, TX.
The many kind words, encouragement, and support from our guests meant so much to our Board, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters. We were also thrilled by a special surprise performance from Richie ‘Canary’ Robinson, whose appearance made the evening even more memorable!
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make this scholarship fundraiser such a success. Together, we’re investing in the future of our students and celebrating the very best of our Jamaican community.
#JamaicaFoundationHouston #ScholarshipFundraiser #Jamaica64 #GivingBack
Our Future Shines!
The tradition continues! Our talented JFH Youth Group, led by Sharon Anglin, brought the vibrant spirit of Jamaica to life with a beautiful Maypole dance performance at our 64th Independence Gala. Thank you to our youth for proudly preserving and sharing this cherished cultural tradition.
#JFHYouth #JamaicaFoundationHouston #JamaicanCulture #ThankYouSharon
Thanks to our Board Members
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Jamaica Foundation of Houston Board of Directors! Your countless volunteer hours, teamwork, and dedication made our 64th Independence Gala Scholarship Fundraiser a success. Together, we’re creating opportunities for students and making a lasting impact.
#JFHStrong #GivingBack #Teamwork #JamaicaFoundationHouston
Miss Lou Tribute
A heartfelt thank you to Chantelle Clarke for your captivating Miss Lou Tribute at our Jamaica Foundation of Houston Independence Gala! Your performance beautifully celebrated Jamaica’s rich culture, heritage, and storytelling, leaving our guests inspired and proud. We truly appreciate you for sharing your incredible talent with us.
#JamaicaFoundationHouston #MissLou #Jamaica64 #CelebrateJamaica
Another Incredible Year with the Bayou City Brass Band
A huge thank you to Bayou City Brass Band for another incredible year of bringing the energy, excitement, and unforgettable sounds to our Jamaica Foundation of Houston Independence Gala! Your performance had the crowd smiling, dancing, and celebrating all night. We truly appreciate your talent and continued support of our scholarship fundraiser.
#BayouCityBrassBand #JamaicaFoundationHouston #JamaicaIndependence #ScholarshipFundraiser
Special Surprise – Richie “Canary” Robinson
What a night! Our gala guests were treated to a special surprise as Richie “Canary” Robinson of Bare Essentials took the stage and had everyone singing along. Paired with the island vibes of DJ Paul South “Sugar Notch,” the dance floor stayed alive all night. Thank you both for making our Scholarship Fundraiser an unforgettable celebration!
#JFHStrong #OneLove #JamaicaFoundationHouston #IslandVibes
Keynote Speaker
Our keynote speaker this year was 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.
DJ Paul Notch
DJ Paul Notch, also known as DJ Sugar Notch, returned 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 were thrilled to welcome him back for another year of exceptional entertainment.
Thanks to our Mistress of Ceremonies (MC)
MC Samantha Hughes served 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.
Jamaica Foundation of Houston Independence Gala Scholarship Fundraiser
Saturday, July 25, 2026
Chateau Crystale
2517 S. Gessner Rd, Houston, TX
Be part of our scholarship fundraiser and make a difference in young lives!
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