The Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA) recently launched its 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.

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 will ensure that the Grassroots Project delivers world-class, accessible facilities and services for Jamaica’s para-athletes.

In fact, the launch reflected the vision of Juan Pablo Salazar, Director of Inclusion of People with Disabilities at CAF, as shared at the Ibero-American and South American Sports Council summits in Montego Bay on April 23-24, 2025. He emphasized sport's role in changing perceptions and breaking barriers, advocating for inclusive sports policies to build equitable societies. Salazar highlighted CAF’s collaboration with UNESCO and the AmPC to strengthen National Paralympic Committees in Jamaica and the Caribbean, focusing on infrastructure, training, and accessible sports ecosystems. 

Jamaica Paralympic Association president Christopher Samuda said the initiative represents an historic feat for Jamaica and the Caribbean.

"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," he said during the launch at Sangster International Airport.

"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," Samuda added.

Andrew Parsons, president of the International Paralympic Committee, emphasized Jamaica’s pivotal role.

"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," Parsons stated.

Meanwhile, Michele Formonté, Executive Director of AmPC, echoed this sentiment.

"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," she noted.