Celebrating 35 Years of Leadership: UJAA’s Special Academy Series
The Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (USA) Inc. (UJAA) is hitting a significant milestone—its 35th anniversary! To mark this special occasion, UJAA is hosting a unique edition of its Leadership Development Academy (LDA) Series. This summer, the organization will bring together past and present leaders to celebrate achievements and chart a path forward for Jamaica’s vibrant diaspora community.
A Historic Gathering of Leaders
Kicking off the festivities is the first session on Wednesday, July 23, at 7:30 PM ET. This landmark event will feature all five living past presidents of UJAA: Barrington Wright, Anton Tomlinson, Barbara Richards, Karlene Largie, and Lesleyann Samuel. It’s not every day that you get to hear from such a distinguished group, and this panel discussion promises to be a treasure trove of historical insights and leadership wisdom.
Irwine Clare, Sr. O.D., a well-respected figure in the community, will moderate the session. His familiarity with the panelists will help facilitate rich exchanges that reflect on how UJAA has adapted over the years. “The past presidents will interface with the leadership of the member associations as they reflect on the undeniable changes and how they adapted over the years, locally and globally,” shared a member of the LDA Planning Committee. This discussion will delve into how UJAA has maintained its iconic presence while supporting education both in Jamaica and among the diaspora.
Spotlight on Today’s Changemakers
The second session, scheduled for Saturday, August 16, at 9:30 AM ET, will shift the focus to the current leaders shaping the future. Current presidents from UJAA’s member associations will take center stage in a discussion led by Cherika Wilson, the LDA 2025 Chair and a past member president. This session aims to foster a sense of celebration and community while exploring strategies for continued progress.
Participants will not only celebrate the achievements of the past but also discuss how to advance the mission of nonprofit leadership development across the diaspora network. “We’re excited to create an environment where current leaders can share their experiences and inspire one another,” Wilson noted.
Empowerment Through Education
The Leadership Development Academy operates under the rallying call “Igniting the leader in you.” This mantra serves as a catalyst for growth and engagement within the Jamaican diaspora community. UJAA firmly believes that “Education is empowerment. Only the educated are free.” This philosophy has guided the organization for 35 years, and the LDA provides a dynamic platform to honor past contributions while empowering future generations of leaders.
Both sessions will be held virtually via Zoom, showcasing UJAA’s adaptability to modern communication methods. This approach ensures that Jamaican alumni associations across the United States can come together, no matter where they are.
As UJAA celebrates its 35 years of service, the LDA Planning Committee is using this anniversary to reflect on the leadership stalwarts who have focused on the mission while adapting to changing times. The Leadership Development Academy Series is a testament to UJAA’s ongoing commitment to nurturing strong nonprofit leadership within the Jamaican diaspora.
So, as we look forward to these engaging sessions, one must wonder: What new heights will the next generation of leaders reach?