Deh Yah returns with purpose

What began as a celebration of music, culture and creativity has evolved into a powerful act of solidarity. Deh Yah, the showcase of young Jamaican talent, returns on Friday, transformed by purpose as its collective of organisers and artistes unite to raise funds for the Lower Prosper community in Santa Cruz, which was devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

This year’s staging, set against the skyline at Skyline Levels beginning at 7 p.m., will feature performances from Sevana, Friday Night Cru, Royal Blu, Zac Jone$, Gio Mar, Akina Eman, and Elle, with sound selections from DJs Reiizzzr and Fatalic. Also, 100 per cent of proceeds will go directly toward rebuilding efforts, routed through the Lower Prosper Development Group (LPDG).

According to Djavan Warner, co-founder and Friday Night Cru member, the decision to dedicate the entire event to hurricane relief was immediate and unanimous. “We couldn’t witness what happened after Hurricane Melissa and continue as though things were normal,” said Warner. “We’re a community of creatives who grew up on the values of coming together when it matters. Deh Yah has always been about energy and expression, but this year it’s about impact, too. Every ticket purchased through Caribtix.com helps a real family in Lower Prosper rebuild.”

LPDG has been at the heart of community upliftment in Santa Cruz for years. As an organic farming collective registered with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority and the Social Development Commission, the group leads greenhouse production, tree-planting drives, sustainable agriculture training, and bee-keeping initiatives that support both environmental recovery and economic resilience. Their work helps replenish local food sources, restore soil health and strengthen the long-term sustainability of farming families across the district.

But the passage of Hurricane Melissa dealt a devastating blow, destroying critical equipment, damaging irrigation systems and impacting the livelihoods of the farmers who depend on the land.

“Lower Prosper has played a major role in improving the quality of life for people in the area,” shared Damani Gardner, Deh Yah co-founder and Friday Night Cru member. “They’re not just farmers; they’re educators, environmental advocates and community builders. With support from our title sponsor, Legend Jamaican Lager and partners like Caribbean Dreams, WATA, IPrint, Cooyah, GHR Legal, and Mystique Integrated, we’re rallying our networks to help restore the tools and infrastructure they desperately need. Deh Yah represents young people leading with heart, culture and responsibility.”

Funds raised from Deh Yah will go directly toward the replacement and repair of essential farming assets, including the community’s generator, water tank, drip-irrigation systems and other supplies vital to restarting their operations. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will support families within the group who were personally affected by the storm.

Those unable to attend the concert will also have opportunities to contribute beyond a ticket purchase. The organisers encourage Jamaicans to support LPDG’s restoration efforts through in-kind donations or by participating in upcoming volunteer days that will assist with rebuilding the farm’s physical infrastructure.

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