Soca artist Jadel has been recognised by New York City Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, who awarded her a citation acknowledging her “exceptional artistry, dedication, and inspiring contributions to the community at large”. The honour was issued on 3 September in connection with Blocko Mania.
The Trinidad and Tobago artist received the citation from West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) president Roger Archibald during Soca Fest in Brooklyn on 4 September, as New York’s Caribbean community gathered for the city’s annual Carnival celebrations.
Although Jadel was unable to perform at this year’s Blocko Mania event, the recognition reflects her longstanding contribution to New York’s Caribbean cultural scene, including multiple appearances at WIADCA events over the past five years.
Speaking to Soca News about receiving the honour, Jadel said: “It’s truly a humbling feeling and an incredible honour. I’ve spent years putting in the work recording, performing, touring, building my career independently and representing Trinidad and Tobago on stages in different parts of the world.
“A lot of that work happens behind the scenes and may not always be seen, so to receive this second citation and have those efforts recognised means so much to me. It reminds me that the sacrifices, consistency and dedication are not going unnoticed.
“More than anything, it motivates me to keep pushing, keep growing and continue representing my country proudly wherever this journey takes me.”
The award marks the second official citation Jadel has received in New York, further recognising her contributions to Caribbean music and culture.
