2025 :::: GENERAL MEETINGS Review our general meeting dates and times (click here)
Year in Review 2025
NOVEMEBER :::: ANNUAL ELECTION
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston held its Annual Board Member Election on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM CT via Zoom (click here to join). The primary purpose of the meeting was to elect new board members (click to view announcement and candidate statements). We encouraged all eligible members to participate and have their voice heard!
✨ PLUS — Special Session! We kicked off the first half of the meeting with a brief Introduction to AI Workshop designed to show how AI can support your work, community projects, and everyday life. All were welcome to attend!
Click to view announcement and candidate statements
Our JFH nonprofit’s annual board election is vital as it upholds legal compliance, strengthens leadership stability, and promotes accountable governance—all essential to advancing our cultural and educational mission while effectively supporting the Hurricane Melissa relief effort.
SEPTEMBER :::: GENERAL MEETING
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston held a successful in-person general meeting on September 19 at 7:00 PM at the Tracy Gee Community Center. The event provided an opportunity for members to connect, discuss new initiatives, and share ideas to support the Jamaican community in Houston. The meeting featured a guest speaker, Cordia J. Constable, an experienced attorney with over 30 years of legal expertise in Jamaica and Texas, who offered valuable insights on Lands, Estates, and Guardianships. Attendees (25 includes 16 via Zoom) also had the option to join via Zoom. The organization emphasized the importance of member participation to continue growth and community support.
Aug 6 :::: Jamaica independence day
Dear Friends and Members of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston,
Happy Independence Day! Today, we join hands across the globe to celebrate Jamaica’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and resilient spirit as we mark another year of freedom and progress.
On this special day, we honor the enduring legacy of our ancestors who fought tirelessly for our sovereignty. We also celebrate the vibrant contributions of our Jamaican community here in Houston and around the world, whose strength, talent, and warmth continue to shine brightly.
Let us take pride in our roots, embrace our cultural traditions, and look forward to a future filled with promise and prosperity for Jamaica and its people everywhere.
Jamaica, our homeland, forever in our hearts. Happy Independence Day!
One Love,
Dr. Nicole Bent Jones
President, Jamaica Foundation of Houston
JUL 26 :::: ANNUAL GALA | Celebrating Heritage and Empowering Futures: Highlights from the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Gala
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston hosted its highly anticipated Annual Gala, an enchanting evening filled with elegance, celebration, and purpose. The event took place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the stunning Chateau Crystale, located at 2517 S Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77063, and marked a memorable occasion honoring Jamaica’s 63rd Independence Day. Guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated venue where the ambiance radiated sophistication and warmth, setting the perfect tone for the night’s festivities.
>> View the JFH 2025 Gala Souvenir Booklet
>> Link to online version available here
Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving
Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving commemorating Jamaica’s 63rd Anniversary of Independence. The Service will be held on Sunday August 3rd, 2025, starting at 3:00 p.m. at the Cooper City Church of God, 9191 Stirling Road in Cooper City. — Consulate General of Jamaica – Miami, FL
JUN 20. GENERAL MEETING
On Friday, June 20, 2025, at 7 PM CT, JFH held its General Meeting in Room 109 at the Tracy Gee Community Center, located at 3599 Westcenter Dr., Houston, TX 77042, in Houston’s Westchase District. The event was attended by 20 people—15 in person and 5 online—and celebrated Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Attendees enjoyed purchasing gala tickets and received support from special guest YouTuber Ms. Carrera of Liming with Dynell, who expressed enthusiasm for the foundation and the upcoming gala. The annual gala is scheduled for July 26 at Chateau Crystale, featuring DJ Paul Notch, Bayou City Brass Band, and keynote speaker Dr. Shaun Smart.
MAY 10 :::: JFH 5K WALKATHON & CONSULATE’S HI-5 5K RUN/WALK
We laced up our sneakers for the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s 5k Walkathon on May 10, 2025. We doubled engagement this year with 23 race participants and many more supporters behind the scenes! The walkathon took place at Arthur Storey Park, located at 7400 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. South, Houston. Part of the proceeds from the walkathon went towards the Consulate’s HI-5 5K Run/Walk fundraiser raising funds for the Ministry of Health’s Adopt-a-Clinic initiative, benefiting five medical clinics in Jamaica. 
MAY 3 :::: ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS LUNCHEON
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon, held at the Norris Centers – Houston Westchase at 11 am on May 3, 2025, was a resounding success, bringing together supporters to celebrate academic achievement and contribute to a worthy cause. The event provided a platform to honor deserving students and raise vital funds for the foundation’s scholarship program. Attendees enjoyed a delicious luncheon while supporting the next generation of Jamaican-American leaders. The generosity of those who purchased tickets and participated in the raffle directly impacts the lives of students pursuing higher education.
A highlight of the luncheon was the inspiring keynote address delivered by Dr. Sherrill Morris, which resonated with attendees and underscored the importance of education. Adding to the impact were the powerful and personal testimonies from former scholarship recipients, who shared how the foundation’s support had made a tangible difference in their academic journeys. The raffle, with exciting prizes like an Apple Watch and a dinner for two, added an element of fun and further encouraged contributions to the scholarship fund. The event was catered by Green Pasture Catering, known for fine cuisine in the Jamaican community. The event successfully showcased the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s commitment to empowering students and building a stronger community.
Special thanks to Scholarship Committee Chair, Darnette Hill, and committee members, as well as the JFH Board Members, for continuing to support our mission.
APR 18 :::: general meeting
Friday’s General Meeting, held virtually on Zoom, was an inspiring and engaging event that showcased the vibrant tapestry of Jamaican culture and community advocacy. The highlight was undoubtedly the performance by internationally acclaimed Jamaican dub poet Malachi D. Smith, whose commanding and rhythmic verses captivated attendees and celebrated Jamaica’s cultural heritage. Additionally, Mr. Peter Gracey, the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for the USA Southern region, delivered insightful commentary on pressing local issues tied to national development, while Oliver Mair, Consul General for Jamaica in the USA Southern region, passionately outlined strategies for mutual support amid today’s complex political climate. Together, these contributions fostered a collaborative environment and inspired attendees to take an active role in community engagement. Overall, the meeting was a successful blend of education, culture, and motivation, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
MAR 22 :::: JFH Booth at the International Art and Kite Festival
The International Art & Kite Festival, held on March 22, 2025, at Crown Festival Park in Sugar Land, Texas, was a vibrant celebration of community and culture. The event featured dynamic performances, an array of food trucks offering diverse culinary delights, and engaging activities at the JFH booth, where attendees could experience Jamaican culture through traditional games (i.e., Ludo and dominos) and hands-on activities like flying kites. Artisan vendor booths showcased unique handmade crafts, emphasizing the importance of supporting local artists. Overall, the festival was a resounding success, merging art, culture, and family-friendly entertainment, and leaving attendees eager for next year’s event.
FEB 21 :::: GENERAL MEETING
On February 21, 2025, a General Meeting was held in Houston’s Westchase District, featuring Honorary Consul for Jamaica, Attorney K. Omari Fullerton. The event, starting at 7 PM CT, allowed community members to connect before engaging in discussions about recent immigration law changes that impact local families and individuals, particularly within the Jamaican community. Fullerton’s presentation provided both legal insights and personal narratives, fostering an interactive dialogue among attendees. Participants expressed appreciation for his clarity on complex issues, leaving the meeting more informed and empowered to navigate immigration challenges. The event underscored the value of community engagement and informed leadership on critical topics.
JAN 30 :::: Let’s Connect with Ambassador Marks
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston joined the ‘Let’s Connect with Ambassador Marks’ virtual meeting with Ambassador Audrey Marks, Consul General Roach-Wilson, and Consul General Mair, who graciously hosted the Honorable Fayval Williams, Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and the Public Service. The session brought together a distinguished panel of Jamaican immigration lawyers, including Hon. Consul for Jamaica K. Omari Fullerton, who provided invaluable insights into current affairs in the USA and Jamaica. Participants engaged in a dynamic discussion, addressing critical issues affecting the diaspora, while fostering a deeper understanding of the legal landscape. The collaboration between diplomatic representatives and legal experts highlighted the importance of community engagement and support in navigating immigration matters.
JAN 20 :::: 31st Annual MLK Grande Parade
Members and friends of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston joined us on Monday, January 20, 2025, for the 31st Annual MLK Grande Parade in Midtown, Houston. We braved the cold weather and donned our Jamaican attire for the powerful parade celebration of unity and justice! Thanks to DJ Marcus for the reggae vibes as we marched together, handing out Jamaican flags to cheerful onlookers along the way—celebrating diversity, promoting peace, and paying tribute to the advancements made in the pursuit of equality.
We were happy to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who encourages us all to embrace the spirit of community service and social equity.
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Radar Love, LLC for their generous sponsorship of T-shirts for JFH at the 31st Annual MLK Grande Parade in Midtown, Houston. Their support not only enhances our presence at this meaningful event but also demonstrates their commitment to our community and its values.
Review general meetings & events page (click here)
