Vybz Kartel, Beenie Man, Busy Signal & More Receive Humanitarian Ambassador Awards in Lauderhill

In a powerful fusion of culture and compassion, the City of Lauderhill, Florida officially recognized several of Jamaica’s most influential music icons for their humanitarian response following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

During a special Commission Meeting held on February 23, 2026 — in celebration of International Reggae Month — the city presented Humanitarian Ambassador Awards to dancehall and reggae heavyweights including Vybz Kartel, Beenie Man, Busy Signal, Spragga Benz, and Wayne Wonder.

The ceremony underscored what Caribbean communities have long understood: reggae and dancehall are not just genres — they are vehicles of advocacy, unity, and tangible change.

Mobilizing Aid in the Wake of Disaster

When Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica’s western parishes — including St. James, Hanover, and Westmoreland — the destruction left families without electricity, food, and basic necessities. In response, these artists moved swiftly, transforming influence into impact.

Vybz Kartel & The Adidja Palmer Foundation

Through the Adidja Palmer Foundation, Vybz Kartel spearheaded one of the most extensive artist-led relief campaigns following the storm. Key initiatives included:

• Partnering with World Central Kitchen to deliver more than 3,500 hot meals to affected communities.

• Donating a 40-foot container filled with emergency supplies, including 12,000 bottles of water and 1,500 loaves of bread.

• Providing long-term support for the Westhaven Children's Home for the Disabled.

• Contributing an estimated $35 million JMD (approximately $50,000 USD) toward recovery and rebuilding efforts.

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Accepting his citation, Kartel expressed heartfelt gratitude to the city, noting that the recognition carried deep meaning as he coordinated relief efforts while traveling during the storm’s aftermath.

Beenie Man: Boots on the Ground

Known globally as the “King of Dancehall,” Beenie Man translated his iconic stage presence into hands-on service. Through the Beenie Man Foundation, he traveled directly to storm-ravaged communities, helping to:

• Clear blocked roadways

• Distribute relief packages

• Deliver essential supplies to hospitals in St. Elizabeth

  
  

His presence on the ground served as both practical support and emotional reassurance for affected residents.

Busy Signal, Spragga Benz & Wayne Wonder

The city also recognized Busy Signal, Spragga Benz, and Wayne Wonder for their charitable contributions and advocacy efforts during the hurricane’s aftermath. Whether through fundraising initiatives, community outreach, or supply distribution, each artist reinforced the message that cultural leaders bear responsibility beyond entertainment.

Regional Recognition of Cultural Icons

In a related celebration, neighboring Lauderdale Lakes proclaimed February 10 as Buju Banton Day, honoring his three decades of cultural influence and his own humanitarian engagement.

Together, these recognitions signal a broader shift: Caribbean artists are increasingly acknowledged not just as performers, but as global ambassadors and community pillars.

A Moment Bigger Than Music

The awards were presented by Lauderhill’s Jamaican-born Mayor, Denise Grant, alongside the City Commission — a symbolic gesture that reflects the deep cultural ties between South Florida and the Caribbean diaspora.

This moment was not simply about plaques or proclamations. It was about validating the longstanding tradition of reggae and dancehall artists serving as voices for the people — especially in times of crisis.

From stage lights to storm recovery, these icons demonstrated that influence is most powerful when it uplifts.

In honoring them, Lauderhill affirmed what fans across the globe already know: Caribbean music legends are not only entertainers — they are humanitarian ambassadors in every sense of the word.