Celebrating a legacy that helped shape reggae’s journey from local sound to global force.

Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin, co-founder of VP Records, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Jamaica Independence Gala, held at the New York Marriott Marquis.

The annual event, organised by the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York in collaboration with Jamaica Promise, brought together members of the diaspora, cultural leaders, and supporters of Jamaica under the theme “Party with a Purpose.” The evening celebrated not only independence, but also the people who continue to carry Jamaican culture onto the global stage.

Miss Pat was recognised for her pioneering role in reggae music and for building VP Records into a powerhouse of Caribbean music worldwide. Over the course of more than six decades, her work has helped guide reggae from its roots in Kingston’s record shops and sound systems to international recognition, influencing generations of artists and audiences alike.

Sharing the stage with other distinguished honourees from across business, culture, and community leadership, the night reflected the wide-reaching impact of Jamaican excellence around the world.

In acknowledging the award recipients, Consul General Alsion Wilson, OD, praised their contributions, highlighting their role in shaping industries, empowering communities, and representing Jamaica with pride on a global level.

The evening also featured live performances celebrating reggae’s enduring spirit, while supporting meaningful causes through its proceeds, including education, healthcare, and community initiatives in Jamaica.