Kathryn Silvera - President of The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

November 16, 2025

Cocktails With

Kathryn Silvera

President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association

Style Observer (SO): You have made history in Jamaica as the first woman to lead the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA). What were those first few months like?

Kathryn Silvera (KS): It’s been both humbling and energising. The first few months have been a whirlwind — meeting with key agencies, partners, and the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce to share my mandate and encourage alignment, while balancing the day-to-day needs of our members. There’s a deep sense of responsibility that comes with this role, not just as the first woman, but as someone entrusted to help steer the manufacturing and export sectors at a pivotal moment for Jamaica. I’m very aware that as a sector, we must work closely with the public sector to develop a clear growth map for the country.

SO: What do you think is your competitive advantage?

KS: I think my competitive advantage lies in being a long-standing member of the association — almost 15 years. Over that time, I’ve built strong relationships across both the public and private sectors, which helps me connect dots, find solutions, and mobilise people around shared goals. I’m also very decisive, I believe in moving from talk to action, while also valuing collaboration and shared vision. Within our board of directors, I always encourage open, constructive dialogue because I know that strong outcomes come from collective insight.

SO: Who got the first call?

KS: My mum, of course! She’s been my rock and greatest cheerleader through every season of my life. I wanted her to hear it from me first, and to know that everything she instilled in me, especially perseverance, made this moment possible.

SO: You are in fact serving during unprecedented times: The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa a Category 5 storm… Unprecedented times for both the JMEA and the country. What can we anticipate under your leadership?

KS: These unprecedented times demand resilient leadership and bold collaboration. The JMEA, PSOJ (Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica), and JCC (Jamaica Chamber of Commerce) have united to present a joint private sector approach to the Government to help drive relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts. For the JMEA, our immediate priority is to get affected manufacturers back on their feet through targeted support, access to financing, and supply chain restoration. But beyond recovery, we’re focused on transformation and resilience, ensuring that the manufacturing and export sectors build back stronger. I also intend to keep pushing for data collection as a cornerstone for stronger advocacy and strategic planning.

The JMEA’s focus is clear: Relief, recovery, and rebuilding sustainably.

1 Relief – Coordinating support among our members and the wider public for immediate needs, and working with the Government to ensure local procurement wherever possible.

2 Recovery – Ensuring our members, especially MSMEs (micro, small and medium-sized enterprises), have access to the facilities, financing, and advocacy needed to recover.

3 Rebuilding sustainably – Strengthening resilience across the sector so that we can rebuild better and more competitively for the future.

SO: Which business leaders locally or internationally do you most admire and why?

KS: Growing up — and even now — I’ve always admired my grandfather, Laurtiz Oswald Ramson. In 1922, his father started our family business but passed away just a few years later. At only 18, my grandfather took over its operations and went on to build and expand it over the next 50 years, establishing several manufacturing enterprises — including Caribbean Foods Limited, Berec Batteries, and Acco Jamaica Limited. He was diligent, determined, and deeply committed to building Jamaica through industry. His work ethic and resilience helped shape my own approach to leadership and strengthened my passion to serve through this association.

SO: Were you able to knock heads with five female icons, living and or dead, who would they be and why?

KS: That’s such a fun question! I’d love to connect with:

• Miss Lou, for her authenticity and fearless celebration of Jamaican identity.

• Michelle Obama, for her grace, resilience, and purpose-driven influence.

• Rita Hilton, for her pioneering spirit and commitment to Jamaican agriculture and export.

• Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, for her excellence, discipline, and dedication to giving back.

• Mia Mottley, for her visionary leadership and unwavering values.

SO: What does Kathryn do in her down time?

KS: I love catching up on the latest Netflix series, diving into a great mystery novel, or planning my next trip.

SO: Share with us a few of your creature comforts.

KS: I’m a bit of a workaholic, so when I get the chance to relax, it’s simple pleasures that make me happy: A good book, comfy leggings, and an excellent meal.

SO: What’s your one handbag essential?

KS: A battery charger — I have to stay powered up on the go!

SO: Lipstick or mascara?

KS: Lipstick — red, preferably. A bold lip shows confidence the moment you enter the room.

SO: Heels or flats?

KS: Heels for the boardroom, flats for the factory tours — both have their place!

SO: An evening in or out?

KS: An evening out — good food, great company, and lively conversation.

SO: And what are you drinking?

KS: Golden Mojito – Appleton Estate Signature Blend

SO: You are an avid traveller. Which countries are on the radar for 2026?

KS: In 2025, I visited Iguazu Falls — one of the seven natural wonders of the world — and Christ the Redeemer, one of the new seven wonders. For 2026, I’m hoping to visit Machu Picchu, another of the new seven wonders. Also high on my list are Croatia and Greece, both rich in history, architecture, and breathtaking scenery.

SO: Share with us the name of the last book read.

KS: Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders by L David Marquet, a powerful reminder of what it means to empower others and redefine leadership.

SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?

KS: Lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and never forget where you come from.

Golden Mojito – Appleton Estate Signature BlendIngredients: 6-8 fresh mint leaves 1.5 oz Appleton Estate Signature Blend 1oz simple syrup 1 oz lime juice Club Soda Method: In a shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup Add Appleton Estate Signature and lime juice (leave out the club soda for now) Shake with a few pieces of ice. Empty into a tall glass and add crushed ice. Top off with a splash of club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve with a straw. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Kathryn Silvera says she would love to knock heads with five female icons: (from left) Michelle Obama, Mia Mottley, Louise “Miss Lou” Bennett-Coverley, Rita Hilton, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.

Known for its breathtaking views, well-preserved Inca ruins, and unique architecture, Machu Picchu — a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site — is on Silvera’s 2026 bucket list.