1 week ago
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It was a night of Jamaican pride and international prestige as Josef ‘Joe’ Bogdanovich, chief executive officer of DownSound Entertainment, producers of Reggae Sumfest, received the International Achievement Award at the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Hummingbird Gala at the iconic Plaza Hotel in Manhattan last Friday.
The annual AFJ event celebrated visionaries who continue to shape Jamaica’s global image through excellence, leadership, and service.
As Bogdanovich took the stage to accept his award, presented by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, he paused for a moment, visibly moved by the applause echoing through the grand ballroom.
“This award means so much because it represents Jamaica — its people, its power, its passion,” he said. “Moving to Jamaica changed my life. Reggae isn’t just music; it’s a heartbeat that unites the world, and I’m honoured to play a role in sharing that rhythm.”
Bogdanovich’s journey from businessman to a key cultural player has been defined by bold moves and a deep commitment to Jamaica. Under his leadership, and along with his team, Reggae Sumfest has continued to evolve, while his philanthropic work continues to touch communities across the island.
“None of this would be possible without my incredible team — the dreamers, the doers, the believers,” he shared. “Jamaica is a land of champions, and this honour belongs to the people who inspire me every single day.”
The gala was more than an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of Jamaican excellence. Guests were treated to captivating live performances by Agent Sasco, The Alpha School of Music Ensemble, and DJ Max Glazer, with a surprise appearance by Minister Marion Hall.
The evening’s other honouree, Jason Henzell, chairman of Jake’s Hotel and founder of the BREDS Foundation, received the International Humanitarian Award for his groundbreaking work in community development in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth.
Throughout the night, stories of resilience, philanthropy, and national pride echoed through the halls of The Plaza, a fitting setting for a celebration of Jamaica’s brightest contributors abroad.
For Bogdanovich, the recognition serves not as a capstone, but a call to keep building.
“This isn’t just about what we’ve achieved,” he said in closing. “It’s about what’s next, for music, for our people, and for Jamaica. The best is yet to come.”
English (US) ·