Jason Henzell: A Heartfelt Recognition at the Hummingbird Gala
Jason Henzell, the chairman of Jakes Hotel and co-founder of BREDS, is feeling a whirlwind of emotions. When he learned he would receive the Humanitarian Award at the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) 2025 Hummingbird Gala, he was taken aback. “I was honestly surprised and overwhelmed with emotion,” he shared. So much so that he kept the news to himself for three weeks, only revealing it to his wife, Laura, when he overheard her making plans for the gala date.
Scheduled for October 10 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, the Hummingbird Gala is a celebration of philanthropy and excellence. It raises funds to support education, healthcare, and economic development across Jamaica. This year, Henzell will be honored alongside Joseph ‘Joe’ Bogdanovich, CEO of DownSound Entertainment, who will receive the International Achievement Award.
For Henzell, this recognition is not just a personal milestone; it validates years of grassroots work in Treasure Beach. “This award validates the work that BREDS has done and encourages the directors to keep challenging ourselves,” he said. He hopes his recognition shines a light on the importance of non-profits working directly within communities.
A Legacy of Community
Henzell’s connection to Treasure Beach runs deep. His family has a rich history in the area, known for community-based tourism and sustainable development. “My grandparents bought land in the 1930s and built Treasure Cot, a modest two-bedroom cottage on Calabash Bay in 1941,” he reminisced. “I am so grateful that they took this leap of faith, creating a place for four generations to enjoy and contribute meaningfully.”
Jakes Hotel has become a cornerstone of community life. “Anyone who receives the Jakes newsletter or follows our social media will see that we keep visitors engaged with local events,” Henzell explained. From the Calabash International Literary Festival to local farmers bringing in fresh produce, the hotel embodies the spirit of Treasure Beach. This community engagement was especially evident when visitors rallied to support BREDS after hurricanes Ivan and Beryl.
BREDS: Empowering the Future
Under Henzell’s leadership, BREDS has expanded its reach through various programs focused on sports, education, and conservation. “EduSport, our game-based programme, has reached 225 schools and serves 37,000 students,” he highlighted. The organization has also provided hundreds of scholarships through partnerships and taught 1,200 children to swim with its Likkle Swimmers initiative.
Henzell’s influence extends beyond BREDS. As chair of the St Elizabeth parish development committee, he played a crucial role in creating the St Elizabeth sustainable development plan, protecting thousands of acres of land and securing low-density designation for Treasure Beach.
Looking Ahead
With a vision for continued community growth, Henzell has ambitious plans. “Future projects include replacing the roof of our community centre, building the Treasure Beach health centre, and expanding the Lionel Densham Aerodrome,” he shared. Skills training programs with HEART are also on the horizon.
The Hummingbird Gala promises to be a night to remember, uniting philanthropic leaders, members of the Jamaican diaspora, and global supporters. Attendees can look forward to a cocktail reception, a curated silent auction, a three-course dinner, and performances by Agent Sasco and the Alpha Music Students, culminating in an afterparty hosted by Max Glazer.
As Henzell prepares for this momentous occasion, one can’t help but wonder: What new heights will his community reach next?
