August 9, hosted by Jamaica Independence Foundation, Inc (JIFINYC) at Terrace on the Park in Queens, New York. In a special citation from New York City Mayor Eric Adams, August 9 was officially declared Christopher Martin Day in New York City.

The event, celebrating Jamaica’s 63rd Independence, also recognised ska ambassador Alphanso Castro and James Haynes as 2025 honorees. Martin received the Ambassador and Innovator of Reggae Music Award, as well as proclamations from the US House of Representatives and New York State Senate signed by Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and New York State Senator Kevin Parker.

He was joined on stage by StacyMac, media personality and guest host; J Lexy Brooks, president of JIFINYC; and Chris Chin and Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin of VP Records when he was presented with the award. He performed several of his hits at the event, just days after performing at Jamaica’s Grand Gala at the National Stadium on Independence Day, August 6, where Beres Hammond, Capleton, and Leroy Sibbles were honoured as icons. The official People’s Ball featured a cocktail reception, fashion show, silent auction, dinner, and entertainment with DJ Roy of Road International and a live band. (Jamaica Observer/ Ajamu Myrie)