Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador Honored at the Prestigious Haitian Music Awards 2026

Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador and Creole advocate Leroy “Wadix” Charles has been selected as a Recognition Award Recipient at the 10th Annual Haitian Music Awards (PHMA). The prestigious ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Lipman Performing Arts Theater in North Miami Beach, Florida.

This Kompa Recognition Award is a profound acknowledgment of over four decades of dedicated, undiluted, and consistent work by Charles in promoting cultural exchange, strengthening bonds between Dominica and the Haitian kompa community, and celebrating the shared rhythms and heritage of the Creole world.

“I am elated and deeply honored to receive this recognition. This award is dear to me because it represents a journey of unity, one that connects Dominica and Haiti through music, language, and shared cultural identity,” said Charles.

The Haitian Music Awards is one of the leading platforms honoring excellence in Haitian music and culture, recognizing the achievements of artists, cultural leaders, and visionaries who have made significant contributions to the global promotion of Haitian music, particularly the kompa genre.

Charles joins a distinguished roster of honorees and artists, including Robel Shalu of Top Vice, who nominated him; Cubano of Scat, DP Express, Jacot Serge Rochelle of Schlesler, Tat Lacoll, and other legendary kompa figures.

Throughout his career, Charles has worked tirelessly to build bridges between Dominica and the Haitian community. He has served as Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Haitian Association, promoted Haitian Flag Day in Dominica for several years, and consistently championed platforms that celebrate Creole language, music, and identity across the Caribbean and the diaspora. His work through Creole Heartbeat, the World Creole Music Festival, and various cultural collaborations has played a key role in amplifying Creole culture on the world stage.

“I extend the heartbeat of thanks to Kirby Lavier and the PHMA Committee, the City of North Miami Beach, committee members, cultural leaders, Francisole and Wanikoli, WCMF, DBS Radio, and the Creole family in Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe who have walked this journey with me,” added Charles.

As he prepares to accept this prestigious honor, Charles looks forward to proudly representing Dominica at the Haitian Music Awards 2026, continuing his mission of uniting Creole communities through music, language, and cultural pride.