Chris Williams appointed honorary chair of Young Entrepreneurs Association of Jamaica

The Young Entrepreneurs Association of Jamaica (YEA) has named Chris Williams as its new honorary chair, a strategic move designed to propel the organization into its next phase of development, influence, and impact. This appointment comes as YEA President Cordell Williams prepares to conclude his term in 2026, following a period of substantial expansion and national engagement for the association.

Cordell Williams stated that selecting someone with deep entrepreneurial understanding and a commitment to developing people, systems, and institutions was crucial for the YEA's future. "Several names were considered, but this decision was carefully guided. Chris Williams brings a rare combination of vision, credibility, experience, and genuine commitment to developing entrepreneurs. We believe he is the right person to help steward the association into its next dimension of growth," he said.

Williams's connection to the YEA is significant; he was the featured guest speaker at its launch in 2026, making his return as honorary chair a full-circle moment. Renowned as one of the Caribbean's most accomplished business leaders, Williams has over three decades of experience building and scaling successful organizations. He previously served as CEO of NCB Capital Markets and co-founded PROVEN Group, growing it into a financial conglomerate with approximately $3 billion in assets. He also chaired the Branson Centre of the Caribbean, supporting regional entrepreneurs, and played a key role in establishing the Jamaica Stock Exchange Junior Market.

Currently, Williams is co-founder and chairman of different Group, a Caribbean-focused real estate investment company. In his new role as honorary chair, he will act as a strategic advisor and mentor to the YEA's leadership. His responsibilities include strengthening relationships with the private sector, investors, policymakers, and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. The YEA's mission is to equip Jamaican entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, networks, knowledge, and opportunities to build sustainable businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the nation's economic and social transformation.

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Several names were considered, but this decision was carefully guided. Chris Williams brings a rare combination of vision, credibility, experience, and genuine commitment to developing entrepreneurs. We believe he is the right person to help steward the association into its next dimension of growth.