Caribbean News
AmPC and CAF launches the GrassRoots Project in Jamaica the Caribbeans’ para-sport powerhouse
June, 2025 – The Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA) proudly announces the official launch of the GrassRoots Project—a transformative initiative dedicated to advancing inclusive sports and social change in Jamaica. Central to this project is the creation of a dedicated sports facility for para-athletes, empowering local talent and positioning Jamaica as a leading destination for regional and international Para Games.
The launch event, held on May 15, 2025, at Sangster International Airport, marked a significant milestone for Jamaica’s Paralympic movement. Distinguished guests included Mr. Dwight Crawford, Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay; Mr. Natawah Dixon, Director of Security and Transportation at Sangster International Airport; Ms. Candesa Cassanova, Visitor Relations Manager of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB); Mr. Adrian Muirhead and Mr. Ronald Barrett from Jamaica Couches and Limousines (JCAL); and members of the St. James Parasports Federation—Mr. Clive Waldron (President), Ms. Claudette Bryan (Secretary), and Mr. Gladstone Sealy (Coach), alongside para-athletes Mr. Delmar Campbell and Ms. Asoysona Campbell.
A key component of the launch was a comprehensive assessment of public and private sports infrastructure, hotels, and accessible vehicles. This assessment was led by AmPC experts Ms. Karlha Andrade (Paralympic Sport Expert) and Mrs. Patricia Squella (Architect Specialist in Universal Accessibility), working closely with JPA representatives Mr. Gavern Tate (Architect) and Ms. Tamara Feanny Green (Project Manager). Their collaboration ensures that the GrassRoots Project will deliver world-class, accessible facilities and services for Jamaica’s para-athletes.
The launch reflected the vision of Juan Pablo Salazar, Director of Inclusion of People with Disabilities at CAF, as shared at the Ibero-
Mr. Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Paralympic Association, stated:
“We are making history for para-athletes in Jamaica and the Caribbean in ensuring integration and accessibility to the infrastructure of sport and society. History is being created as we move to break ground to build an academy of high performance not only for sport but, importantly, for personal development and education. We are sowing seeds of a legacy so that abled athletes with a difference, which some label unfortunately as disabled, will reap the fruit of our labour and provide lessons of valour and triumph for those who desire, who dare to be and have the conviction to become standard bearers. It is a grassroots project that will become a national movement.”
Jamaica’s leadership in the Paralympic Movement has garnered international acclaim. Mr. Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, emphasized Jamaica’s pivotal role, stating:
“Jamaica is poised to become a beacon of inclusion and excellence, not just for its own athletes but for the entire region. This is the right hub, the right moment, and the right nation to lead this transformative era in sports. By engaging 15% of the population with disabilities in sports, Jamaica can unlock substantial economic and social advancements.”
Mrs. Michele Formonté, Executive Director of AmPC, echoed this sentiment, adding:
“Jamaica feels like home, with its vibrant culture and welcoming people. We are creating a community here in the Americas. The Jamaican Paralympic Association is aware of its potential and is growing as the leader of the Caribbean countries. We’re not just changing lives; we’re changing a country and empowering communities.”
CAF, AmPC, and JPA invite corporate Jamaica, community leaders, sponsors, partners, and advocates to join this transformative journey by supporting the GrassRoots Project. Together, we can break down barriers, inspire communities, and create lasting opportunities for Jamaicans with disabilities—cementing Jamaica’s legacy as a leader in para-sport in the Caribbean.
For partnership opportunities or more information, please contact:
Jamaica Paralympic Association jamaicapara@gmail.com