ABOUT JAMA
Eighty-six years of service to the Jamaican diaspora in boston.
Our story
BUILT ON HERITAGE, ROOTED IN SERVICE
The Jamaican Association of Massachusetts was founded in 1938 by Jamaicans living in Massachusetts who wanted a place to connect, gather, and celebrate the richness of Jamaican culture.
What began as a community space for fellowship and cultural pride has grown into an organization dedicated to preserving Jamaican heritage, supporting the diaspora, and building bridges between generations.
Today, JAMA continues to serve as a hub for connection, advocacy, education, wellness, and community support across Massachusetts and Jamaica.
OUR MISSION
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Rooted in heritage, driven by purpose.
Community empowerment
We create spaces where Jamaicans and the wider Caribbean community can connect, access resources, and support one another.
Service and support
We show up when our community needs us most, from local programs and partnerships to relief efforts that support families in Jamaica.
Cultural heritage
We preserve and celebrate Jamaican culture through events, education, advocacy, and shared traditions across generations.
Meet the JAMA Board of Directors
JAMA is led by community members committed to preserving Jamaican culture, strengthening the diaspora, and supporting programs that serve Massachusetts and Jamaica.
Jennifer James
President
Leads JAMA’s vision, community priorities, and organizational direction.
Stacia Copeland
Vice President
Supports leadership, programming, and member engagement across JAMA initiatives.
Christina Simpson, Esq.
Business
Supports business partnerships, community development, and economic empowerment efforts.
Belicia Wilkinson
Technology & Communications
Guides communications, technology, and JAMA’s digital presence.
Michael Maxwell
Health and Wellness
Supports health, wellness, prevention, and community care initiatives.
Douglas Miller
Education
Leads education-focused work around opportunity, access, and academic support.
Niambe McIntosh
Marketing
Supports marketing, outreach, storytelling, and community visibility.
Dexter McKenzie
Operations
Helps manage operations, coordination, and event support across the organization.
THEIR WORDS
Hear from those whose lives have been touched by JAMA
"When the hurricane hit, JAMA didn’t wait. They were there with supplies, shelter, and hope. That’s what family does."
Marcus Johnson
Relief recipient, Jamaica
"JAMA gave me a place to belong when I first arrived in Boston. Now I volunteer because I want others to feel that same welcome."
Simone Williams
JAMA volunteer, Boston
"Supporting JAMA means supporting our roots. They keep our culture alive while doing real work in our homeland. That matters."
David Chen
JAMA donor, Massachusetts
