BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2026-2029
President
Shemar Barnes
Provides strategic leadership and direction for the Association, with a focus on governance, growth, and community impact.
president@jamaicanassociationmb.ca
Vice President
Zoreen Waite
Supports the overall operations of the Association, leads key initiatives, and chairs the Building Committee, overseeing the maintenance and development of the Association’s facilities.
vp@jamaicanassociationmb.ca building@jamaicanassociationmb.ca
General Secretary
Olivia Valazquez
Oversees the Association’s records, correspondence, and administrative functions, and leads the Social Services Committee in supporting community needs.
Treasurer
Diana Raynor-Wilson
Manages the financial operations of the Association, including budgeting and reporting, and chairs the Finance Committee to ensure accountability and financial sustainability.
treasurer@jamaicanassociationmb.ca
Director of Communications
Nathalie Waite
Leads the Association’s communications strategy, including social media and marketing, and chairs the Public Relations Committee to strengthen outreach and community engagement.
Director of Fundraising
Amanda Asante
Develops and leads fundraising initiatives and partnerships, and chairs the Social & Fundraising Committee to support the Association’s programs and events.
Director of Membership
Chantella Morgan-Peart
Oversees membership growth and engagement, and chairs the Membership Committee to enhance the overall member experience.
Director at Large
Neville Hamilton
Supports board initiatives with a focus on culture and community engagement, and chairs the Education & Culture Committee.
Director at Large
Ronald Morrison
Supports board initiatives and contributes to cultural programming and community engagement efforts.
Past President
Eartha Gyles
Provides continuity and advisory support to the Board, contributing institutional knowledge and leadership experience.
jam committees
Standing Committees (By-Law Mandated)
These committees are established under JAM’s by-laws and support the ongoing operations and growth of the organization.
Building
Shape the future of JAM by developing and maintaining spaces that serve our growing community.
Public Relations
Tell our story, grow our brand, and build partnerships that expand JAM’s impact.
Education & Culture
Celebrate and preserve Jamaican culture while inspiring the next generation through education and programming.
Social & Fundraising
Create unforgettable events and drive fundraising efforts that power our mission forward.
Membership
Build a strong, connected community by welcoming new members and enhancing the member experience.
Social Services
Uplift our community by providing support, resources, and meaningful outreach initiatives.
Special Projects & Ad Hoc Committees
These committees are created to lead priority initiatives and strategic projects that respond to the evolving needs of our community.
Economic Development & Settlement Committee
Drive initiatives that strengthen economic opportunities and support newcomer integration through partnerships, programs, and community-based solutions.
Strategic Planning & Governance Committee
Lead the development of JAM’s strategic plan while strengthening governance, policies, and organizational structure for long-term success.
Committee & Future Board Member
We’re searching for passionate individuals to join our committees or become future board members.
Committee members help shape specific programs, while board members lead the organization. If you're committed to our mission and want to make an impact, we encourage you to apply.