Published:Saturday | May 31, 2025 | 11:03 PM
Evert 'Evy Royal' Johnson, the comedian and content creator known for his signature humour and viral comedic sketches, was one of four trailblazers awarded in the new media category at Saturday’s Prime Minister’s National Youth Awards for Excellence.
The ceremony, held at Jamaica House, celebrated outstanding contributions to national development by young Jamaicans.
Evy Royal, whose digital presence continues to grow through relatable storytelling and online entertainment, was recognised for his influence and innovation in Jamaica’s fast-evolving media space. He was joined by fellow awardees Jason Weir, Diandra Harrison, and 876 Stream. Other standout nominees in the category included digital creative Jhaedee Richards, popularly known as Jaii Frais, and food reviewer and social media personality Hakeem Bryan, better known as Uncle.
While Evy Royal lit up the digital sphere, the stage was graced by the harmonious voices of The Foster Triplets — Malaika, Mahari, and Mikaili — who received the Prime Minister’s National Youth Award for Excellence in Music. Singing together since the age of two, the gospel trio has carried their ministry around the world, delivering messages of faith and inspiration through albums like What a God, Try Jesus, and Grace Carried Me Here. They were nominated alongside Ojea Sheckleford.
The night also saw accolades across a wide range of sectors. Myesha Broadie walked away with the journalism/e-journalism award, with Amoy Harriott named among the nominees.
A total of 88 young Jamaicans were shortlisted across 15 categories, including academics, agriculture, entrepreneurship, environmental protection, national leadership, and sports.
Two new categories were introduced this year, including technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and special abilities.