About Us

We are a community of passionate Jamaican nurses in New Jersey and beyond—united by purpose, guided by compassion. From training and advocacy to outreach and international missions, our work uplifts communities both locally and across Jamaica. Our vision is bold, our impact is real—and we’re just getting started.

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About Us

What We Do

The Jamaica Nurses Association of New Jersey (JNAONJ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Jamaican nurses in the diaspora. Through education, service, and community partnerships, we support healthcare initiatives both in New Jersey and back home in Jamaica.

Our Motto

Nurses With Impact

Mission Statement

To empower and support Jamaican nurses in New Jersey and abroad by fostering collaboration, education, service, and advocacy that improves the health and wellness of communities both locally and in Jamaica.

Vision Statement

A unified nursing diaspora, impacting global healthcare through leadership, partnership, and compassion.

Our Goals

Membership Drive & Engagement
Expand our reach and engagement among Jamaican nurses across the diaspora.
Training & Knowledge Sharing
Facilitate workshops, mentorship, and knowledge exchange with the Jamaican health community.
Healthcare Missions
Organize and support missions that deliver direct care and health education in underserved areas.
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborate with local and international health organizations for greater impact.

Community Outreach

We proudly support efforts both locally and abroad, from health screenings in New Jersey to mobile clinics and health education programs in Jamaica. Our members consistently volunteer time, skills, and resources to uplift communities in need.

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Message

President’s Message

President Celia O'Gilvie BSN, RN

Esteemed Members of the Jamaica Nurses Association of New Jersey, Jamaicans, Community Members, Supporters, Friends, All,

It is my solemn pledge to you all that I will summon the best resources and effort to ensure we continue to build this into an organization worthy of the mission that’s been set as its founding, and worthy of the support we seek from all stakeholders, to address the needs of the community in Jamaica, here on the ground in New Jersey, and wherever else we serve pressing needs.

I am assuming office at time of great opportunity for our organization to continue to make its mark and to continue setting itself apart through innovative, meaningful, and relevant leadership and service.

Let me also acknowledge the new Vice President, Michelle Whitfield; Secretary Judi Ali; and Treasurer Marline Spencer, and the other officers who are entering with me for this term. We are ever so thankful to the previous President Edna Lee, Lorane Phillips and Officers, for their tireless work and commitment building JNAONJ over the past years. Their contributions have set a strong foundation upon which we will continue to build.

As we assume this responsibility, let me reiterate the commitment to advancing the mission of JNAONJ by expanding membership across the Jamaican diaspora. We must continue, strategically, efforts to bring to the Association diverse experiences and innovative ideas, to drive positive changes in healthcare systems both in the United States and Jamaica.

We intend to forge a robust partnership with the Nurses Association of Jamaica and the Ministry of Health to overhaul and standardize healthcare policies and procedures in the island from whence we come – the ultimate aim being to revolutionize the scope of practice for nurses, ensuring consistency and excellence in patient care across borders.

It is also mine and the new officers’ intention to champion the revival of JNAONJ’s Scholarship Program, to deliver crucial financial support to aspiring nurses, for them to pursue their degrees and contribute to the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

We envision building stronger and broader partnerships with US hospitals to offer invaluable learning experiences for student nurses, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

By focusing on these and other key areas that matter most to our members and community – enhancing professional development, advocating for policy that support nurses here and in Jamaica, and lending whatever support and resources we can to help build the nursing profession in Jamaica as well – we can ensure the well-being of members and the constituents we serve.

Collaboration, innovation, and persistence are key to addressing these and other pressing problems. I am committed to working closely with members and supporters to find sustainable solutions and amplify our collective voice where it matters most.

Our association is only as strong as the engagement of its members. I encourage each of you to stay actively involved—whether through participating in committees, sharing your expertise, or contributing ideas to help shape our future. Together, we can drive meaningful change and continue to elevate JNAONJ ’s cause.

Communication and transparency will remain central to my leadership. A listening ear will also be a hallmark of my term of office – your concerns, ideas, and aspirations matter. As does your feedback, in order to guide our collective efforts.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the work we do, and I look forward to ground-breaking achievements with you in the months and years ahead. Together, we will build a stronger and more impactful Association.