We Believe in Fostering Inclusion, Celebrating Heritage, and Empowering Communities.

It’s the JCA's mission to deliver programs and services, provide a physical hub, and advocate to improve the well‐being and equity of Jamaican, Caribbean & African‐Canadian communities within the Greater Toronto Area.

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 Mission

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.

JCA Membership

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%).

THE FUTURE OF JCA

The Change Champions initiative, empowering our members to lead positive transformations within the JCA and our community.

JCA MEMBERSHIPS

We are an association of individuals that share a common love and appreciation for the Jamaican cultural heritage.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Interested in becoming a Jamaican Canadian Association board member? We welcome new members.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN) provides essential programs and advocacy efforts to enhance the well-being of our community.

JCA Board of Directors 2024-2025

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

Director at Large

JCA Committee Chairs 2022-2023

Education

 

(Acting) Membership Services

Lisa Rutty

Membership Events

Keisha Wright

Scholarship

Prudence Betty

Women’s Committee

Dr. Dana Powell

Spelling Bee

Dr. Sylvanus Thompson

JCA History

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.

Past Presidents

JCA By-laws