Former Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe Anya Ayoung-Chee and Jamaican musical legend Bunny Ruggs to be Honoured

A former Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe and a Jamaican musical legend have been added as honourees for the 19th Annual Caribbean American Heritage Awards (CARAH).   On Friday, Nov. 16, the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) will honour Anya Ayoung-Chee and Bunny Ruggs and seven other outstanding Caribbean Americans at the CARAH Awards Gala.   Chee and Ruggs were the latest additions to a highly acclaimed event that recognizes the contributions of Caribbean Americans in various industries for their excellence in service and accomplishments.     Chee is the 2008 Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe and the winner of the 9th season of Project Runway, the popular design show that has launched the fashion careers of many up and coming designers. She is recognized as the longest serving Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe.   Ruggs is a familiar and popular reggae star with a career that spans more than three decades. He is the lead singer for Third World, the internationally recognized reggae band whose versatility, rhythms and lyrics have rocked the world since the late 1970s. Ruggs has also produced a successful solo album.   "One of the goals for ICS when we launched the CARAH Awards was the opportunity it presents to display the diversity of the Caribbean. We are proud to highlight a Chinese descent Trinidadian alongside a Jamaican musical legend," said Dr. Claire Nelson, ICS president and CARAH executive producer.   "Our 2012 list of honourees is a true reflection of the rich heritage of the region. And as we focus on the milestone of Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago celebrating their 50th Anniversary, we have been lucky to have honourees who represent some of the best talents of these two countries," Dr. Nelson added. "We invite everyone to join us in celebrating these nine individuals but also these landmarks in Caribbean history."

OUR OTHER HONOREES  In addition to the two newest honourees, ICS will also honour the following:           Monty Alexander, renowned jazz musician. Colin Channer, acclaimed author and assistant professor of English at Medgar Evers College. Dean Garfield, president and CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council, a powerhouse of advocacy and influence for the IT community. Robert Greenidge, noted pianist. Shaka Hislop, former soccer player and ESPN analyst on Soccernet Press. Andy Ingraham, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators & Developers, Inc. Constance White, Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine.   To learn more about the Caribbean American Heritage Awards and our honourees, visit www.caribbeanheritageawards.org.