The Spanish-Jamaican Foundation (SJF) was officially founded in July 2006 in order to strengthen the relationship between Spain and Jamaica through the promotion of social, educational and cultural projects across the island.

With notable recent investments by Spanish companies in Jamaica's tourism sector, the SJF reflects their wider social commitments of contributing meaningfully to the well-being of all Jamaican people

From its inception, the overall direction and project priorities of the SJF have been guided by an advisory board which comprises leaders of the country's economic, political, cultural and educational areas. Its operational affairs are overseen by an executive board, comprised of the Spanish companies currently investing in Jamaica, and it is presided over by Ambassador Jesus Silva in his role as honorary president.

raise national awareness

In recognition of the depth of expertise that resides within the country, the SJF has a strong commitment to ensure that its projects are designed and implemented in partnership with individuals and organisations recognised as leaders within their fields.

Its Jamaican Heritage Trail project was, therefore, developed in collaboration with the Jamaican National Heritage Trust to enhance the country's cultural tourism offerings. By promoting a number of significant heritage sites around the island, this project will raise national awareness of Jamaica's rich history while, at the same time, promoting income-generating opportunities for local communities.

With support pledged by the Real Madrid Foundation, the SJF is in the process of establishing a "Real Madrid Football Academy" in order to enhance the social integration of young people living in economically-depressed areas in and around Montego Bay. Through a training programme of sporting and other activities, the academy will transmit positive values to its participants and increase their self-esteem, respect, solidarity and social responsibility. In this way, it is foreseen that the academy will permit the fuller development of these youngsters and enable them to better cope with their personal circumstances.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the SJF has also developed its "Integration of Persons with Disabilities into Jamaican Workforce" project. This aims to improve the integration of persons with disabilities within the tourism-related labour force in Jamaica, promoting their earning capacity so as to enhance their standard of living, independence and autonomy.

A number of new projects are also being planned for implementation in the near to medium future. These include initiatives which will enhance Jamaican craftsmanship, support community development and protect areas of environmental significance.