JAJA
MISSION
The beautiful island of Jamaica, located in the Caribbean Sea of Central America, has walked a resilient path since gaining independence over 60 years ago after a long history of colonial rule. While the country is rich in culture, creativity, and community spirit, many locals continue to face economic challenges. These difficulties are not unique to Jamaica, but reflect broader global inequalities.
LINK
At LINK UP JAJA, we deeply respect the strength, warmth, and positivity of the Jamaican people—who, even in hard times, never lose their humor or generosity. Our mission is to stand with them, recognizing both their dignity and the real needs that persist. By listening closely and building relationships at the grassroots level, we support initiatives that bring out the innate charm, talent, and potential of local communities.
Through this mutual connection, we aim to create sustainable, empowering activities that energize not only those receiving support but also those giving it—fostering learning, awareness, and solidarity across borders.
UP
Greetings and salutations
Representative Director
Natsumi Nakamura
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been supporting us. If you became a member of the NPO LINK UP JAJA, purchased our made-in-Jamaica products or followed us on social media, your support is highly appreciated.
In March 2020, due to the effects of the coronavirus, I was forced to return to Japan from Jamaica while I was still an active volunteer in the official development assistant program. In spite of this untimely event, I decided to follow my intuition and pursue my passion in establishing the NPO.
It has been 20 years since Jamaica fascinated me. The beautiful sea, rich nature, reggae music, and above all, the heartwarming and humorous Jamaican people have captured my heart. As I became more involved with the locals, I began to witness their difficulties and sufferings as well.
Many of the problems that plague Jamaicans result from poverty. Why have many remained poor in spite of their industriousness? It is true that some lack jobs. However, many working class citizens still feel an imbalance between low salaries and high prices, insufficient social security, and other social and economic challenges. The difficulties seen in Jamaica can be found all over the globe. How could we possibly work toward solving these problems?
We at NPO LINK UP JAJA want to present a balanced picture, not only Jamaica’s positive and unique culture. We believe cross cultural understanding can also take place when we tackle mutual issues. After all, no big change can happen without small changes. Even if it seems useless, I believe earnestly working together will pave the way for greater rewards.
One-way support is too outdated. We aim to build a sustainable support system which will benefit the helpers and the helped. Come and join us. Be a part of the solution. We are looking forward to linking up with you!
Yours in service,
Director: Iori Higashi
Utilizing his career as a designer, Iori became a Japan International Cooperation Agency(JICA) volunteer at a community rehabilitation center for children with disabilities in Mandeville, Jamaica. Aiming for sustainable management of the institution, Iori dedicated his skills as a web designer as well as his marketing experience to fundraising. Iori plays an important role for the NPO and he continues to work passionately for Jamaica.
CHAKACHAKA
CHAKA CHAKA is the online store that handles Jamaican Fair Trade products in Japan run by NPO LINK UP JAJA. After witnessing the economic damage of the local business sector in Jamaica caused due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we started to buy made-in-Jamaica products directly from the local artisans to support them. The products are carefully handmade by skilled Jamaicans and their unique designs which appeal to the charm of Jamaica are liked and supported by Japanese customers. “Support locals” is the motto of CHAKA CHAKA and we believe that this business will make it possible to carry out many more projects which link Japan and Jamaica.
More opportunities
for people living with disabilities
for people living with disabilities
Our representative Natsumi has been interested in the circumstances for people living with disabilities(PLWD) in Jamaica for a long time. Natsumi has volunteer experience at Mustard Seed Communities which runs a lot of children’s homes for children and people with special needs in Jamaica. She was also involved with special schools in St. Ann as a JICA volunteer. Her stints at these institutions have made her awareness of the needs for the PLWD in Jamaica much clearer. Unfortunately, the current welfare system for PLWD doesn’t cover a lot of those it is meant to help in Jamaica. There are schools for children with special needs, however, children and adults with severe disabilities often cannot find a place to accept them and provide them with adequate care. As a result, many of these individuals hardly come out of the areas they live in.
People living with disabilities whether they be mental or physical want to lead a happy life. They need a circle of friends, social roles and places to belong in the community. NPO LINK UP JAJA aims to create a place for PLWD to find more social participation opportunities in Jamaican society. That will be the focus and drive of our upcoming activities. In partnership with a variety of agencies and local support, we believe that we can make it happen little by little. As the old Jamaican saying goes, “One one coco full basket.” We hope you will join us regardless of how small you think your contribution might be and help us to spread love and joy!
“See mi yah!”
Hand-Weaving Program for Persons with Disabilities
Many persons with disabilities we met in Jamaica faced financial hardships due to limited job opportunities. Often, they were isolated from the rest of society. This harsh reality made us reflect deeply on how we could help change the situation. We believe that everyone—regardless of ability—deserves a place in the community, to be seen, valued, and included.
In April 2023, we launched our hand-weaving program to respond to this need. We welcomed former students of the Edgehill School of Special Education in St. Ann’s Bay, St. Ann, Jamaica, and began creating handwoven textiles with youth who have intellectual disabilities. Witnessing their joy and creative expression was truly inspiring—it revealed the talents and potential that too often go unnoticed.
Since then, we’ve showcased our work at local events, where our products have been warmly received. This initiative has received much appreciation for providing job opportunities and promoting social participation for persons with disabilities. The program is supported by our Japanese members, generous sponsors, and local Jamaicans who purchase our products and believe in our mission.
Hand-weaving is not about mass production—it’s slow, thoughtful, and personal. The income from weaving alone is not enough to ensure an independent life or meet the full needs of persons with disabilities. Without a supportive social structure, true inclusion remains out of reach.
That’s why each of our unique, imperfectly beautiful handwoven pieces becomes more than just a product—it becomes a voice. A call for awareness, and a reminder that, like our crafts, we all have value in our uniqueness.
“See mi yah!”—Look at us, we are here! Don’t leave us behind. Include us!