Maryland-based organisation to host gala in aid of Hurricane Melissa recovery

NEW YORK:

Diaspora group Right Now for Jamaica (RNFJ), formed recently in Maryland, will hold its inaugural Fundraiser Gala Dinner & Concert on March 28 – billed as an elegant evening of culture, purpose, and philanthropy. The event is dedicated to strengthening Jamaica’s recovery and long-term resilience following last October’s devastating hurricane.

Slated for the Royal Ballroom in Bowie, Maryland, just outside Washington, DC, the gala promises to gather members of the diaspora, corporate leaders, policymakers, philanthropists, and friends of Jamaica for a night of unforgettable dining, live entertainment, and collective action.

“In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica has demonstrated extraordinary strength and unity,” RNFJ Vice President Dr Maurice Miles shared. Yet, he argues, as recovery transitions into long-term rebuilding, the need for sustained partnership and investment remains paramount. “This gala serves as a platform to mobilise the diaspora and corporate community around a shared commitment: rebuilding Jamaica stronger, smarter, and more climate-resilient.”

The gala reflects a broader movement among diaspora leaders and strategic partners to move beyond short-term response toward sustainable recovery and renewal. By convening public and private sector stakeholders in one space, the event fosters meaningful partnerships that will drive measurable impact across the island, Dr Miles stated.

He pointed out that, since the RNFJ has been on the ground, it has provided assistance in St Elizabeth, adopted the hurricane-ravaged Percy Junor Hospital, which is now serving residents of St Elizabeth and surrounding parishes, and donated medical supplies valued at over US $100,000 to the hospital, with more en route.

Organisers have promised attendees an evening that celebrates Jamaica’s culture and creativity while contributing to tangible rebuilding initiatives that benefit communities across the island. Two-time Grammy-nominated reggae powerhouse Etana – herself an RNFJ director – will headline the evening’s entertainment alongside superstar artistes Mykal Rose & Ras Mista Fyah, Julian Junior Marvin, and the legendary Wailers,

Proceeds from the event will go directly towards rebuilding efforts across critical sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in Jamaica.

Persons interested in purchasing tickets for the event are invited to visit: www.jamaicagala.com