Hayden Jones - Chairperson
Hayden Jones is a dedicated leader, community advocate, and seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in public service, higher education, and charitable work. Born on Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Hayden's journey has taken him from England to Canada, where he has resided in the Greater Toronto Area since 1980.
Hayden holds an MBA from Northeastern University in Boston, specializing in Marketing and International Business. His professional career has spanned key roles in the Federal Government (HRSDC), higher education institutions, and financial services. Over the past 18 years, he has focused his expertise in the higher education sector, contributing to the development and success of countless students and professionals.
Passionate about giving back, Hayden has dedicated over 30 years to volunteering and community service. He has been a champion of diversity and inclusion, leading initiatives that provide support and healing to marginalized groups. Hayden is particularly proud of his work as the Chairperson of CARI-ON, a disaster preparedness organization serving St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where he has led efforts for the past 5 years. He is also a former President of the Union Island Cultural Association of Greater Toronto and a former board member of Black Mental Health Canada, reflecting his deep commitment to the well-being of his community.
Hayden's leadership extends to his personal life as well. Married to his wife Claudette for over 33 years, they have raised 4 children and are proud grandparents of two. He is passionate about helping people achieve their dreams and works tirelessly to make a lasting impact in both his professional and personal endeavors.
Driven by a sense of purpose, Hayden continues to inspire those around him, proving that through hard work, compassion, and vision, lasting change can be achieved.
NIKOLA ANDREA JONES (AKA ANDREA) - Vice-chair, dIRECTOR OF EVENTS & FUNDRAISING
Andrea Jones grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and was raised as a Unionite (from Union Island, SVG) by her parents, Jason and Omega Jones. After high school, she ventured from Manitoba into Ontario, in 1993.
Andrea is currently employed as an Administrative Assistant with Ontario. She has been a Certified Medical Office Assistant with over 15 years of experience at Scarborough Health Network. Since 2014, Andrea became a Certified Medical Laboratory Technician, at Lakeridge Health. Studying at Centennial College, Andrea gained Medical Technologist and Laboratory Certifications (OSMT and CSMLS) with an average “A” grade, demonstrating her commitment and determination to learn and succeed.
Having many years of experience as a Medical Secretary, Lab Technician, and Accounts Receivable Clerk in the Health Care and Business Environment, has provided Andrea with success in delivering services, trusted confidentiality, first-rate communication, and dependability, to both Hospital staff and clients of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. All this work experience, training, and development provide her with exceptionally strong service skills, both in a team and individual environment.
Andrea’s free time has been spent with her two grandchildren. She has also volunteered as a Co-manager for her daughter’s Rep Basketball team, which held the 2017/18 Ontario Basketball Association National Gold. She is also a proud and dedicated founding Member of CARI-ON SVG Disaster Preparedness.
CLAUDIA SUTHERLAND - TREASURER
Claudia was born in Kingstown, St.Vincent, she emigrated to Canada in the late 60's.
Upon completing secondary school at Harbord Collegiate Institute she attended various colleges.
She is a Certified General Accountant and holds certificates in Purchasing and Demand and Supply Planning. She is currently retired after working for over 38 years in the Food and Beverage industry in Toronto in various positions. Claudia now spends her time volunteering and also serves as a member on various Board of Directors for a number of non profit organizations.
I am pleased to be a member of CARI-ON S.V.G Disaster Preparedness so I can now "Give back " and help the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.