On April 5th, the Hard Rock Hotel in Davie, Florida, transformed into a hub of Jamaican culture and camaraderie as it hosted a prestigious private cocktail reception for Dr. Andrew Holness, the Prime Minister of Jamaica. This event brought together influential members of the Jamaican diaspora, showcasing the strength of connections between Jamaica and its citizens abroad.

A Gathering of Influential Figures
The evening was marked by the presence of prominent Jamaican businessmen and community leaders. Among them was Ricky Wade, a notable entrepreneur who operates 28 McDonald’s franchises, and Audrey Marks, the former Jamaican ambassador to the United States. Also in attendance was Oliver Mair, the Jamaican Consul General to the southeastern United States, who has played a vital role in fostering relationships between Jamaica and the diaspora.
Seamless Logistics and Planning
The success of the reception was largely attributed to meticulous planning and execution. Karrelle Chang, alongside business magnate Anthony Barber, known for his expertise in real estate, coordinated the logistics with the support of the Hard Rock Hotel team. Their combined efforts ensured that the event was not only memorable but also reflected the upscale and classy atmosphere that attendees had anticipated.

An Evening of National Pride
As the evening unfolded, the gathering began with the heartfelt rendition of Jamaica’s National Anthem by Steve Higgins, setting a tone of pride and unity. Following this, Audrey Marks and Oliver Mair took the stage to extend their acknowledgments, expressing gratitude for the vibrant Jamaican community present.
A Vision for Economic Growth
Prime Minister Andrew Holness took the opportunity to address the audience, emphasizing Jamaica’s commitment to economic growth despite the challenges that lie ahead, including recent tariff obstacles. His encouraging words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the belief that Jamaica is on a progressive path toward development.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the purpose of the reception held at the Hard Rock Hotel?
The reception was organized to honor Prime Minister Andrew Holness and to strengthen ties within the Jamaican diaspora.
2. Who were the notable attendees at the event?
Prominent figures included Ricky Wade, Audrey Marks, and Oliver Mair, among other influential businessmen and community leaders.
3. What message did Prime Minister Holness convey during the reception?
He reassured attendees that Jamaica is focused on economic growth despite facing challenges such as tariffs.
4. How was the event organized?
The reception was meticulously planned by Karrelle Chang and Anthony Barber with support from the Hard Rock Hotel team, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.
5. What cultural elements were present at the reception?
The event featured the singing of Jamaica’s National Anthem, reflecting the pride and unity of the Jamaican community.
The private cocktail reception for Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the Hard Rock Hotel exemplified the strength of Jamaica’s diaspora and the commitment to fostering economic growth. This gathering not only celebrated Jamaican culture but also served as a platform for networking and collaboration among influential leaders.