The 2025 Sterling Gospel Music Awards, held at Emmanuel Apostolic Church in Portmore, St Catherine, celebrated the finest talents in gospel music, with Kevin Downswell emerging as the standout winner despite his absence. Downswell secured three prestigious awards: Local Hit Producer of the Year, Local Hit of the Year, and Video of the Year. The event, now in its ninth year, also honored other notable artists, including Genesis Praise Squad, which claimed Breakout Sensation of the Year and Group of the Year. Chevelle Franklin, though not present, won Album of the Year for ‘South Wind Vol 1’ and Female Artiste of the Year. Johnmark Wiggan, who entered the ceremony with eight nominations, shared the Collaboration of the Year award with Prince Saj for their song ‘Nuh More Dan Wi.’ Prince Saj also took home Male Artiste of the Year, delivering an emotional acceptance speech that highlighted his journey from hardship to success. Other winners included Sebastian Braham for EP of the Year, Sheena Lyn-Hanson for Virtual Gospel Series of the Year, and DJ Noi for Gospel DJ of the Year. The KFC Big Deal Kingdom Stalwarts Award was posthumously awarded to the family of Bishop Ronald Blair, with other bishops also recognized for their contributions. The evening featured electrifying performances by Johnmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, Jaida Messam, Coopy Bly, and Raheim Betty, leaving the audience inspired and uplifted.