The Jamaican, Caribbean & African‐Canadian communities will be a socially and economically equitable group that is represented and contributes at all levels to a strong diverse Canada.
The JCA is committed to empowering Jamaican, Caribbean, and African-Canadian communities in the Greater Toronto Area through various programs and services that promote well-being and equality. It focuses on celebrating cultural heritage, fostering community connections, and advocating for inclusivity and positive change.
You don’t need Jamaican ancestry to join our community. We’re a diverse group united by a shared love for Jamaican culture and invite you to be part of our celebration.
Our membership includes a mix of adults aged 25-65 (50%), seniors (30%), and youth under 25 (20%).
Established in the 1970s, is a signature program at the JCA that engages senior members and the local community. CCS keeps seniors connected, active, and involved through sessions every Tuesday and Thursday. Participants are both male and female, representing the diversity of the Caribbean.
The program offers information sessions with guest speakers on topics like safety, health, and community resources; weekly fitness exercises; group devotionals; technology workshops; group trips; socializing and meals; fundraising events; choir activities; and games like dominoes.
The Change Champions initiative, empowering our members to lead positive transformations within the JCA and our community.
We are an association of individuals that share a common love and appreciation for the Jamaican cultural heritage.
Interested in becoming a Jamaican Canadian Association board member? We welcome new members.
Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN) provides essential programs and advocacy efforts to enhance the well-being of our community.
PRESIDENT
David Betty
Treasurer
Benito Palomino
Director at Large
Charles Gordon
Vice-President
Michelle Mckenzie-Dolly
Director of Communications
Kashane Denton
Director at Large
Horace Wright
Executive Secretary
Dawn Williams
Director of Fundraising
Michelle Davis
Education
(Acting) Membership Services
Lisa Rutty
Membership Events
Keisha Wright
Scholarship
Prudence Betty
Women’s Committee
Dr. Dana Powell
Spelling Bee
Dr. Sylvanus Thompson
The Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) was born out of the pride and patriotism surrounding Jamaica’s independence in 1962. A group of Jamaicans in Toronto, led by Roy G. Williams and Bromley Armstrong, organized a grand celebration that brought together the community for the first time. This event sparked a strong desire to maintain this unity, leading to the formation of the JCA.
On September 23, 1962, the JCA was officially established with a constitution and an executive committee. Initially focused on social and patriotic activities, the JCA quickly expanded its role to include advocacy and social services to address the needs of a rapidly growing and diverse population. Over the years, the JCA has evolved, adapting to the changing needs of the community while growing in size, presence, and influence.
The association faced challenges, such as the loss of premises to fire, but persevered and now proudly operates from its Cultural Center at 995 Arrow Road in Toronto. Today, the JCA continues its mission to serve the Jamaican, Caribbean, and African-Canadian communities, providing essential services and advocating for the well-being and equity of all.
1975-1977
1977
1977-1978
1978-1980
1981-1984
1989-1992
1992-1996
1996-2001 & 2008-2009
2001-2004
2004-2005
2005-2008
2009-2012
2014-2015
2016-2022
2022-