Gil Figaro, Sr., the Trinidadian-born chairman and founder of the Teaneck, NJ-based SUNSHINE Awards says this year’s event, originally scheduled for October, has been postponed.
“In support of our global citizens and with considerable empathy for nominees, recipients, sponsors and supporters affected by negative economic and adverse social factors, the SUNSHINE Awards Organization considers it vitally important to pause its hosting of the Annual SUNSHINE Awards celebration for this year,” Figaro told Caribbean Life on Sunday, Aug. 25.
“This adjustment does not diminish the importance of our mission,” he added. “On the contrary, it underscores our enduring commitment to celebrate those whose creativity, courage, and intellect continue to sustain and inspire progress across borders today and for generations yet unborn.
“Their remarkable achievements will continue to be celebrated, as their legacy of excellence continues to inspire us all as we strive to make the world a better place,” Figaro continued. “Therefore, the nomination process will proceed as planned, and all selected honorees will be formally recognized and will receive their 2025 SUNSHINE Award.”
For the past 37 years, he said the SUNSHINE Awards Program has “proudly recognized and paid tribute to the creators, performers, and promoters of the performing arts, education, humanity, science, and poetry.”
Figaro said what began as a regional celebration has, over the decades, expanded in both scope and impact, “embracing a global vision that celebrates accomplishments and contributions on the world stage.”
In continuing to spotlight and honor exceptional individuals and organizations, he said the Awards are “affirming our belief that art, culture, science, and humanities are transformative forces.
“They transcend barriers, challenge existing norms, and contribute meaningfully to making our world a more enlightened, inclusive, and compassionate place,” he said. “It is for these reasons that the SUNSHINE Awards Organization stands tall through the years and looks forward to its continuation in the future.
“Predicated on this enduring belief and inspired by a perspective of a more benign national and international socio-economic order in the years ahead, the SUNSHINE Awards Organization looks forward to once again hosting the 38th Annual SUNSHINE Awards Ceremony in 2026,” Figaro added.
For more information, call 201-836-0799, fax 201-836-4440 or email info@sunshineawards.com.
