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    Gil Figaro, the Trinidadian-born founder and chairman of the Teaneck, NJ-based Sunshine Awards Organization, says he’ll be taking the Sunshine Awards to St. Maarten this year for the first time. “The internationally-acclaimed Sunshine Awards, one of the Caribbean's most respected celebrations of excellence and achievement, is coming to St. Maarten for its 38th Annual Presentation,” Figaro told Caribbean Life on Tuesday, July 28.  He said the decision to stage the 38th Annual Sunshine Awards in St. Maarten, on Saturday, Oct. 17, follows “a special invitation” extended by the St. Maarten Friendship Association.  After careful consideration, including a visit to the island and a series of “productive meetings” with government officials, business executives, tourism representatives, and community leaders, Figaro said he accepted the invitation to bring this prestigious event to St. Maarten. “From the moment I arrived in St. Maarten, I was deeply impressed by the warmth of its people, the strength of its community spirit, and the pride its citizens have in their island,” he said. “My meetings with government officials, business leaders and community representatives confirmed what I had already sensed — that St. Maarten is a place of vision, resilience, and extraordinary potential.  “It is, therefore, both an honor and a privilege to bring the 38th Annual Sunshine Awards to this beautiful island and to celebrate the individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to make a positive difference in the lives of others,” he added.  For nearly four decades, Figaro said the Sunshine Awards Organization has recognized and celebrated individuals, organizations, and institutions “whose outstanding contributions have enriched their communities, inspired positive change, and advanced cultural, educational, humanitarian, and economic development throughout the Caribbean and the global community.” He said the awards program has become “a symbol of excellence, service, leadership, culture, and achievement throughout the Caribbean and its Diaspora.”  Figaro said the 38th Annual Sunshine Awards will be held at the Aleeze Convention and Event Hall, located at 117 A.T. Illidge Road, Madame Estate, Sint Maarten, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  He said the elegant black-tie affair will commence with a cocktail reception, followed by the presentation of awards and a spectacular live entertainment showcase.  Figaro said the evening will be hosted by Errol Fabien and Nikki Crosby, two of the Caribbean's most accomplished comedians and entertainers, “whose wit, charisma, and dynamic chemistry promise to make this year's Sunshine Awards an unforgettable experience.”  He said representing the very best of St. Maarten's musical excellence will be two of the island's most beloved performers and former Sunshine Awards recipients.  “Their contributions to Caribbean entertainment have earned them widespread admiration and have helped showcase the rich cultural traditions of St. Maarten to audiences throughout the region and beyond,” said Figaro, disclosing that King T-MO and King Beau Beau will perform during the evening's festivities, bringing their “exceptional talent, energy and unmistakable St. Maarten flavor to what promises to be a memorable celebration of Caribbean excellence.”  He said the audience will also be treated to a special performance by internationally-acclaimed Caribbean jazz pianist John Arnold, “whose remarkable career as a performer, producer, composer and musical director has earned him recognition well beyond the shores of the Caribbean.” A distinguished cultural ambassador of Tobago, the sister isle of Trinidad, Figaro said Arnold is also the director and producer of the renowned Signal Hill Alumni Choir.  “His appearance at the 38th Annual Sunshine Awards is expected to be one of the evening's most anticipated highlights,” Figaro said.  He said another highlight of the evening will be a special performance by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Band – Women's Contingent.  Figaro said the distinguished 18-member ensemble will appear in full ceremonial uniform and is expected to deliver a “memorable and inspiring performance that will add a unique level of pageantry and prestige to the celebration.”  He said the Sunshine Awards is “proud” to partner with the people of St. Maarten in celebrating “excellence, achievement and community service, while highlighting the island's remarkable culture, hospitality, resilience and spirit. As St. Maarten prepares to welcome distinguished guests from throughout the Caribbean and beyond, Figaro urged residents and visitors alike to be part of this historic occasion.  “The 38th Annual Sunshine Awards promises to be more than an awards ceremony—it will be a celebration of Caribbean pride, unity, culture and excellence,” he said.  “Join us as we honor those who inspire us, celebrate those who serve us, and showcase the very best of St. Maarten to the region and the world,” he added. “This promises to be an unforgettable evening, where excellence takes center stage and the spirit of the Caribbean shines brighter than ever.” Figaro said additional announcements regarding honorees, performers, special guests and event activities will be made in the coming weeks.  For more information, call Figaro at 201-836-4440.
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