Annual Report March 2012  - February 2013      x

The original aims of the organisation stated at the launch in May 1999 were:

to support the development of educational links with Jamaica especially with the JAMAL Foundation

to research and provide education and training in relating to gaining respect and recognition for Jamaican language and culture

Now 13 years on the achievements of Jamaica 2000 are:

Adult Literacy: maintenance of close links with the Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning (JfLL) which was JAMAL) providing computers, consultancy and resources

Training Trainers: the management over 30 DfID HE link visits for 4 years to enable sharing of good practice in adult education in Family Learning, Workbased Learning and Use of IT in Learning Centres

School Links: the development the Widening Horizons links between UK and Ja Schools, The Jamaican Ministry of Education and Local Authorities supporting two Local Authority exchange visits.

Research: Management of initial UK research into recognition of Caribbean Languages through conferences and other approaches eg Summer School at University of the West Indies in 2007 and attendance by Jamaica 2000 delegates at the 2011 Conference for Caribbean Linguists

Recognition: for Jamaican Language and Culture – working with Prof Hubert Devonish at the Jamaican Language Unit, University of the West Indies and the UK Institute of Linguists to support the development of the Caribbean and African Languages Network

Awards: included gained CILT Languages Award for Jamaican Language and Culture

Celebrating success: Two Jamaica 2K team members: Joslyn Ross (2003) and John McAnuff (2008) recognised as the Senior Learners of the Year in UK. In 2011 Liz Millman was presented with a Special Recognition Award by the Association of Jamaica Nationals.

Successful fund finding:  Awards for All, Heritage Lottery and other funding

Raised awareness: about Jamaican publications for children and adults

Successful research: into the Roots and Development of Rastafari in the West Midlands

Involvement in UK based initiatives: the REACH National Mentoring Programme, offering accredited courses, mentoring for young people, facilitated establishment of Wolverhampton Black Business Network,

Hosted Jamaican High Commissioner’s visit to Wolverhampton to the BHM Family Fun Day