Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel has secured his second Grammy nomination, with his album *Heart & Soul* earning a spot in the Best Reggae Album category. The announcement, made on November 7, places Kartel in competition with fellow artists Lila Iké, Mortimer, Jesse Royal, and Keznamdi. This nomination follows last year’s recognition of his *Party With Me* EP. In a statement to the *Jamaica Observer*, Kartel emphasized his commitment to legacy and uplifting Jamaica, stating, “Every song, every show, every mission me do now it’s about legacy and upliftment. Jamaica build mi, so mi haffi build back Jamaica.”
Beyond his musical achievements, Kartel has been actively engaged in humanitarian efforts through his Adidja Palmer Foundation (APF). On the same day as the Grammy announcement, APF delivered a 40-foot container of essential supplies, including 12,000 bottles of water, 1,500 loaves of bread, and hygiene kits. Partnering with World Central Kitchen, the foundation also cleared debris, served over 3,500 hot meals, and provided direct support to a children’s home housing 70 disabled children.
Looking ahead, APF plans to expand its mission from emergency response to sustained rebuilding. Kartel aims to adopt one children’s home, rebuild the roof of another, and create safe spaces, including a women’s and kids’ shelter, a soup kitchen, and a counseling area. The foundation will also assist in rebuilding a basic school and restoring parts of St Elizabeth, Jamaica’s breadbasket parish.
After visiting communities affected by a recent hurricane, Kartel shared his vision for mental health support, highlighting the trauma experienced by many, especially children. “We’re creating a space where people can get psychological help, because too many — especially the kids — are dealing with trauma. This is not normal, so we have to care for the mind, not just the body,” he said. Kartel praised the resilience of Jamaicans, stating, “Jamaican people tough like steel, and that’s what hurt me the most; I’ve never seen the people dem cry so much, ever! But the resilience of Jamaican people is second to none. As we always say, ‘We likkle but wi tallawah.’ Right now is the time when we need unity the most.”