About Us

What is TransWave?

We are a non-governmental organization working to advance the health, welfare, and well-being of the transgender community in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Founded in 2015, we started as an advocacy initiative in the form of a blog. The idea was formulated by our co-founders Akilah White and Neish McLean during a workshop hosted by WE-Change Jamaica and partners. Our advocacy efforts are centered on key areas which promote the inclusion and protection of the transgender and gender non-conforming community. These include legal gender recognition, equitable access to non-discriminatory health care, education, housing, and employment.

Mission

To promote change which results in the social inclusion, recognition of rights, and legal protection of the transgender and gender non-conforming community. 

Vision

To see a Jamaica where transgender and gender non-conforming persons are included, affirmed, and enjoy all of the universally recognized human rights. 

She, Her
Executive Director
She, Her
Associate Director of Programmes and Research
He, Him
Associate Director of Operations and Project Development

Our Work/Departments

HIV Response

Since 2019, TransWave Jamaica has been a sub-sub recipient of the Global Fund Grant through the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) and Jamaica AIDS Support for Life (JASL). The organisation undertook referral services under the grant, linking members of the Trans community to HIV prevention and treatment services as well as undertaking psychosocial support interventions and behaviour change communication.