Kathryn Silvera Ushers in New Era as JMEA President at 2025–2026 AGM

Kingston, Jamaica – July 18, 2025
The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) marked a pivotal moment in its history today with the successful hosting of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 2025–2026 term. Held at The Summit Kingston, 16 Chelsea Avenue, the event drew a robust cross-section of Jamaica’s manufacturing and export community to reflect on achievements, renew leadership, and galvanize the sector’s strategic direction for the coming year.

Celebrating Legacy and Leadership: Farewell to Sydney Thwaites

Outgoing President Mr. Sydney Thwaites received high commendation for his transformative two-year tenure (2023–2025). His presidency was defined by a bold vision for expansion, innovation, and global market integration. Under his stewardship, the JMEA celebrated a number of key accomplishments, including:

• Record-breaking Expo Jamaica 2025, which drew regional attention and reinforced Jamaica’s position as a trade hub in the Caribbean.
• Launch of the Manufacture 360 Conference, now a signature event for knowledge sharing and innovation in the sector.
• Trade missions to the USA, Latin America, and other Caribbean territories, enhancing the international visibility of Jamaican goods and services.
• Successful policy advocacy, resulting in Common External Tariff (CET) protection for paints and coatings.
• A 10% increase in employment within the manufacturing and export sector, signaling real growth and industry vitality.

Thwaites’ departure was met with a standing ovation and a tribute from members, recognizing his commitment to pushing the JMEA beyond traditional boundaries.

Kathryn Silvera: A Visionary New Leader

In a historic and forward-leaning election, Kathryn Silvera was appointed as the new President of the JMEA. Silvera brings a blend of seasoned expertise and innovative energy to the role. As Director at Caribbean Foods Limited—known for the beloved Foska Oats brand—and Director of Sales & Marketing at Chas. E. Ramson Limited, Silvera has played a crucial role in shaping some of Jamaica’s most recognized consumer brands.

A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, she has long been an integral part of the JMEA, having served as Vice President, Deputy President, and Director. Her industry influence extends beyond the JMEA, with key appointments as Deputy Chair of the National Compliance and Regulatory Authority (NCRA) and Council Member of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ).

In her acceptance remarks, Silvera emphasized the need for greater innovation, public-private partnerships, and regional competitiveness.

“We must harness the power of Jamaican innovation and resilience to drive our exports, empower MSMEs, and position our industries for sustainable success in global markets,” she stated.

Strengthening Governance: New Board Members Elected

The AGM also facilitated the election of a refreshed Board, bringing new perspectives and dynamism to the JMEA’s governance framework. The newly elected team includes a Deputy President, Treasurer, and five Directors, whose combined expertise spans finance, logistics, agro-processing, and industrial design. This renewed leadership is expected to drive the Association’s priorities in trade facilitation, sector representation, and policy advocacy.

Focus on Growth and Competitiveness

As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, the JMEA reaffirmed its mission to remain a pillar of support for manufacturers and exporters of all sizes, from MSMEs to multinational players. Key priorities for the 2025–2026 term include:

• Strategic Advocacy: Engaging government and international partners to reduce trade barriers and streamline export processes.
• Export Readiness and Training Programs: Enhancing technical capacity and market preparedness.
• Research and Market Access: Leveraging data-driven insights to unlock new regional and international opportunities.
• Sustainability and Innovation: Promoting greener production practices and digital transformation.

Financial Oversight and Transparency

The meeting also featured financial presentations, including a review from the Jamaica Central Securities Depository, as well as the Auditor’s Report. Members ratified the reappointment of CalvertGordon Associates as the Association’s auditors and passed resolutions authorizing the Board to determine auditor remuneration. These procedural highlights reflect the JMEA’s commitment to transparency, fiscal discipline, and accountability.

Looking Ahead: Charting the Future

Under Silvera’s leadership, the JMEA is poised to enter a bold new chapter—one focused on deepening Jamaica’s integration into global value chains, fostering industrial innovation, and elevating the voice of local producers on the world stage.

As the AGM concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism that Jamaica’s manufacturing and export sectors, powered by unified leadership and strategic planning, will play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic resilience and transformation.

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