Wendy Hart steps down after 11 years as AFJ president; Mark Newman assumes leadership

NEW YORK, United States — Mark Newman has assumed the presidency of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), succeeding Wendy Hart, who stepped down after 11 years leading the organisation.

AFJ announced the leadership change at its Hummingbird Gala on October 16 at The Plaza in New York, where Hart introduced Newman as her successor.

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During Hart’s presidency, AFJ continued raising funds for Jamaican charities and community organisations while building relationships with donors in the United States. Her tenure also included the organisation’s response to Hurricanes Beryl and Melissa, with AFJ mobilising nearly US$12 million in cash and in-kind support following Melissa to assist families, schools, healthcare facilities and farmers.