Joe Bogdanovich Honoured in New York as Reggae Sumfest Boss Wins Big at AFJ Gala

It was pure Jamaican excellence on full display at The Plaza Hotel in Manhattan last Friday night when Joe Bogdanovich, the powerhouse CEO behind DownSound Entertainment and Reggae Sumfest, took home the International Achievement Award at the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Hummingbird Gala.

The elegant event, known for celebrating global trailblazers who elevate Jamaica’s name on the world stage, saw Bogdanovich receiving his award from Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett as the crowd inside the iconic Plaza erupted in cheers.

For Bogdanovich, the moment was deeply meaningful and served as a tribute to the island that captured his heart and transformed his life. Over the years, the businessman turned cultural visionary has become one of the driving forces behind Jamaica’s biggest music festival, Reggae Sumfest, helping push local entertainment to international heights.

Under his leadership, Sumfest has evolved into a world-class production that celebrates everything vibrant, bold, and uniquely Jamaican. Beyond the bright lights and star-studded lineups, Joe’s influence runs deep through his philanthropic efforts, community outreach, and commitment to empowering creatives and building opportunities for the next generation.

The AFJ Gala was more than an awards ceremony. It was a full celebration of Jamaican brilliance. Guests were treated to high-energy performances from Agent Sasco, The Alpha School of Music Ensemble, and DJ Max Glazer. The night also featured a surprise appearance from Minister Marion Hall, who had the ballroom buzzing.

Another proud moment of the evening came when Jason Henzell, chairman of Jake’s Hotel and founder of the BREDS Foundation, received the International Humanitarian Award for his outstanding work in community development across Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth.

From start to finish, the gala radiated pride, resilience, and island energy, perfectly reflecting what Jamaica represents to the world.

For Bogdanovich, this honour is not the end of the journey but a reason to keep going, keep innovating, and keep sharing Jamaica’s global rhythm. His transformation from businessman to cultural ambassador continues to inspire those who see reggae as more than just music but as a movement that connects people everywhere.

And as the man behind Sumfest continues to remind the world, the best is yet to come. 🌎🔥🇯🇲