Stewart joins Shakira, Beyonce among Town & Country’s ‘Philanthropists of the Year’

WESTERN BUREAU:

Jamaican hotelier Adam Stewart has joined global superstars Shakira and Beyoncé among Town & Country magazine’s 2026 ‘Philanthropists of the Year’, earning international recognition for his Sandals Foundation’s charitable work across the Caribbean.

Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals Resorts International, has been recognised for his leadership and the work of the Sandals Foundation, whose initiatives have touched thousands of lives across the Caribbean through education, environmental conservation and community development.

The recognition places the Jamaican businessman in the company of some of the world’s most celebrated entertainers and influential personalities, highlighting the reach of a philanthropic organisation rooted in the Caribbean.

Reacting to the recognition, Stewart said he was deeply honoured to be included among the magazine’s distinguished philanthropists.

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised among Town & Country magazine’s philanthropists of the year alongside the remarkable list of honourees,” he said.

For Stewart, however, the acknowledgement is not simply a personal achievement, but recognition of a philosophy that has shaped the operations of Sandals and Beaches Resorts and the wider ATL Group.

“This recognition is particularly meaningful because at Sandals and Beaches Resorts and across the ATL Group we know that success is measured not just by what we achieve, but by the difference we make in the lives of others, in the islands we call home,” he said.

“Our actions speak louder than words when we make decisions that impact our countries and our communities.”

Established in 2009, the Sandals Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, supporting programmes designed to strengthen Caribbean communities, expand educational opportunities and protect the region’s natural environment.

Its work has assumed particular significance in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa, which devastated sections of the island in October 2025, leaving families displaced, schools damaged and communities struggling to rebuild.

The foundation has been among the organisations responding to the humanitarian and recovery needs arising from the disaster, extending its longstanding commitment to communities beyond the boundaries of the resorts.

Stewart said that commitment was shared by the thousands of employees who form the backbone of the Sandals, Beaches and ATL operations.

“Our 20,000 team members across the Caribbean region are the heart of our organisation who show up every day creating magical moments for our customers. So, when the region needs us it’s our duty to respond,” he said.

“And in times of need, we do extraordinary things because they are the right things to do.”

The magazine’s recognition also comes as Stewart continues to receive international acknowledgement for his contribution to business and philanthropy. Earlier this month, he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Friends of Jamaica’s 45th anniversary Hummingbird Gala in New York.

His inclusion in Town & Country’s philanthropy coverage brings further attention to the role Caribbean businesses can play in addressing social challenges in the communities where they operate.

For Stewart, the latest recognition belongs equally to the employees and organisations whose collective efforts have helped sustain the foundation’s work.

“I share this recognition with our entire organisation in celebration of a commitment to making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of the people who call these beautiful Caribbean islands home,” he said.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com