The Jamaica Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (JABBFA) ushered in a new era of leadership while reaffirming continuity at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The meeting, which ran from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., marked a significant moment for the organization as members gathered in person for the first time since pandemic restrictions were lifted. A key highlight of the event was the re-election of Audrie Allwood as President for a historic third consecutive term, underscoring the confidence in her leadership and vision for the sport.
Allwood, who has guided JABBFA through a transformative four-year period, expressed her gratitude to the outgoing executive and excitement about the future. “It has been an incredible journey leading JABBFA through its second term. I am deeply grateful to my team for their unwavering commitment and hard work. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones, and I am excited to continue building on this foundation with our new executive team.”
The outgoing executive took the opportunity to reflect on a series of landmark achievements that have elevated bodybuilding and fitness in Jamaica. Under their tenure, JABBFA expanded its annual events from two to four, introducing the widely successful Western Show, which diversified the competition landscape beyond Kingston. The introduction of cash prizes totalling over J$500,000 was another major breakthrough, providing athletes with tangible rewards for their hard work and elevating the prestige of JABBFA events. The association also secured partnerships with corporate heavyweights such as Mayberry Investments and Supreme Ventures, in addition to strengthening ties with the Jamaica Olympic Association to enhance its visibility and legitimacy.
While celebrating these successes, Allwood acknowledged areas for further growth, particularly in marketing, accounting, and legal support. She emphasized the importance of expanding JABBFA’s executive structure to meet the evolving demands of the sport. “We have identified areas where we can improve. To ensure that JABBFA remains a leading force in the development of bodybuilding and fitness in Jamaica, we will be making strategic appointments and welcoming key additions to our team.”
The meeting culminated in the election of a new executive team, poised to build on the successes of the past administration while bringing fresh ideas and energy to the association. Joining President Allwood are 1st Vice President Kirk Frankson, 2nd Vice President Clifton Lee, General Secretary Angella Brown Johnson, Treasurer Orick Angus, and Director of Social Media Etmore Williams. Representing the athletes directly will be Ashane Gordon Morrison (Female Representative) and Mathew Donville (Male Representative), while Carol McPherson assumes the role of Chief Counsellor.
The election process was met with enthusiasm as nominees presented their vision for the future of JABBFA, with members casting their votes in an atmosphere of optimism and excitement. The overwhelming support for the incoming leadership signals a strong vote of confidence in their ability to drive innovation, expand participation, and solidify bodybuilding and fitness as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s sporting landscape.
As JABBFA embarks on its next chapter, the newly elected team is focused on strengthening grassroots participation, enhancing sponsorship opportunities, and developing platforms for international exposure for local athletes. “This is an exciting time for JABBFA,” Allwood affirmed. “We have a clear vision, a passionate team, and the support of our members. Together, we will continue to elevate bodybuilding and fitness in Jamaica to new heights.”