Connecting Jamaicans in Switzerland

“Jamaica lives where Jamaicans are!” Sen. Kamina Johnson-Smith

Connecting Jamaicans in Switzerland is one of the Association’s primary goals. Creating and guarding a space that is home away from home, where Jamaicans and friends can enjoy warm fellowship, express and indulge in those things that are truly Jamaican, such as language, food, music, dance and more.

Over the years JAS has consistently held annual events, bringing Jamaicans together to celebrate occasions that are uniquely Jamaican. It started with the annual Bob Marley Fete and later became the Independence Fete, interspersed with Potluck picnics, BBQs and at the close of the year, Christmas Carolling.

During periods of crisis, such as COVID in 2020-2021, the association closely collaborated with the Jamaica Mission to ensure that the Jamaican community in Switzerland were kept informed and assisted, where possible, in maintaining contact with loved ones at home. Equally importantly, JAS were on call to provide help with different aspects of living in Switzerland through that exceptionally difficult period.

The close relationship between the Jamaica Mission and the Association remains strong and is clearly expressed on special occasions, such as the nation’s annual Independence celebrations. Long may this close relationship continue!

JAS welcomes you to the region and encourages your active participation in our events.

To remind you of home, here are a few Jamaican sayings – do you know or remember their meaning?

Payshent man ride danki.

Wanti wanti cyaan getti, an’ getti getti noh wanti.

Big blanket mek man sleep late.

Wha sweet a mout’ hat a belly.

New broom sweep clean, but owl broom noe dem cahna.

Hag nyam wha im myne gi im fah.