Jamaican Women of Florida Announces Dynamic New Leadership for 2025-2026
News Release, March 10, 2025
Fort Lauderdale, FL — March 10, 2025- The Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF) proudly welcomes its newly elected Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 term—an extraordinary group of women poised to lead with passion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to impact. This dynamic leadership team represents the strength, resilience, and excellence that define JWOF, setting the stage for an exciting future of growth and empowerment.
At the helm is Michelle Williamson, newly appointed President, whose visionary leadership will continue JWOF’s mission of uplifting, inspiring, and fostering success among women of Jamaican heritage and beyond. She is joined by Dr. Venessa Walker as Vice President, Noya Hastings-Ritchie as Secretary, and Michelle Ho-Sang as Treasurer—each bringing their own expertise and dedication to JWOF’s continued evolution. Rounding out the leadership team are our accomplished Directors-at-Large:
Latangie Williams, Esq. – Legal Affairs
Nerissa Street – Membership
Yvette McLean-Pilliner – Events
Shaina Forbes – NextGen (Mentorship & Youth Development)
Together, these women embody the core values of JWOF—leadership, service, and sisterhood. Their collective vision will propel JWOF into its next chapter, expanding opportunities for personal and professional development, amplifying community impact, and creating pathways for the next generation of trailblazers.
The new board was inducted at the Annual Women’s Conference and Luncheon held last Saturday, March 8, which also observed International Women’s Day. The event was held at the Marriott Harbor Beach Hotel in Fort Lauderdale.
President Michelle Williamson said that “the new JWOF Board is ready to lead with intention, strength, and unity,” said. Described as a tireless serial volunteer, Williamson emphasized that “JWOF will remain committed to expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and continuing the legacy of empowering women to rise, thrive, and give back.”
Since its inception, JWOF has been a beacon of excellence, offering mentorship, educational scholarships, community initiatives, and networking opportunities. Through signature programs and events, JWOF fosters an environment where women are celebrated, encouraged, and supported in their aspirations.
As a respected travel professional spanning more than 20 years, President Williamson has brought to this position a wealth of experience in leadership having served previously as co-chair on the North Miami Beach Commission on the Status of Women (COSW), and volunteer on several community organizations including Suits, Stilettos, Stockings and Lipstick Foundation (SSL), the Heart Sistas Circle, and the annual Winterfest Parade. Through JWOF membership she has also served consistently as a volunteer with projects organized by the Food for the Poor (FFP), and Global Empowerment Mission (GEM). “As we step into this new era of leadership, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our past board members and supporters who have paved the way for continued success. The work ahead is bold and ambitious, and we invite all who share our passion for service and empowerment to join us in making an even greater impact” Williamson said. A resident of Fort Lauderdale, Williamson is a mother of two children, Mykera and Izaya.
To learn more about JWOF and how to get involved, visit JamaicanWomenofFlorida.com (https://www.jamaicanwomenofflorida.com).
About Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF)
Jamaican Women of Florida is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, mentoring, and fostering professional and personal growth among women of Jamaican descent, through philanthropy, education, and leadership initiatives.
JWOF continues to uplift and strengthen communities locally and globally.
Contact: Michelle Williamson, President
Phone: 561-320-1391
Website: www.JamaicanWomenofFlorida.com
Donate to our Causes: JWOF Donations
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