For decades, thousands of young people across Jamaica have faced barriers to educational opportunities, mentorship, and organized sports programs.
Friends of Jamaica Non-Profit Tennis Academy & Enrichment Center was created to help change that reality by providing access to tennis, educational support, leadership development, and positive community engagement.
Today, the organization continues to create opportunities that help young people build confidence, develop life skills, and pursue brighter futures.
Meet Delbert Johnson
Delbert Johnson is the founder and head coach of Friends of Jamaica Non-Profit Tennis Academy & Enrichment Center. He has dedicated his life to creating opportunities for young people through tennis, mentorship, education, and community support.
What continues to inspire Delbert most is the passion, resilience, and determination he sees in the children each week. Despite coming from some of Jamaica’s most challenging communities, they arrive eager to learn, grow, and dream bigger.
One moment has stayed with him above all others. A young participant named Michael once asked, “Coach, can tennis uplift me out of poverty?” Delbert’s answer was simple: “Absolutely.” He believes that through discipline, hard work, respect, education, and perseverance, young people can unlock opportunities that change the course of their lives – from earning college scholarships to becoming certified coaches or even professional athletes.
That belief continues to guide the organization’s mission today. Together with volunteers, donors, and community partners, Delbert is committed to helping every child discover their potential and realize that, with dedication and the right support, the sky is the limit.
More Than a Sport
For Delbert, tennis has always been about much more than competition.
Over the years, he has worked with players of different ages and backgrounds, helping them develop discipline, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, and leadership skills.
These experiences reinforced his belief that sports can become a powerful vehicle for education, mentorship, and personal growth.
That philosophy remains at the heart of the organization today.
Giving Back Through Community Partnerships
In addition to his nonprofit work, Delbert has also been involved in local business and hospitality initiatives that support community development.
Through these efforts, resources can be reinvested into programs that benefit youth and families throughout Jamaica.
A portion of proceeds generated through these initiatives helps support the long-term sustainability of Friends of Jamaica Non-Profit Tennis Academy & Enrichment Center and its
Building Opportunities For Future Generations
What began as a commitment to helping young people through tennis has grown into a broader mission focused on education, mentorship, leadership development, and community impact.
Together with volunteers, donors, community partners, and supporters, Friends of Jamaica continues working toward a future where every child has access to the opportunities they need to succeed.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their potential. Through sports, education, mentorship, and community support, we can help young people build confidence, pursue their goals, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.”
- Delbert / Founder, Friends of Jamaica Non-Profit Tennis Academy & Enrichment Center
Help Shape the Future of Jamaica’s Youth
Your support helps provide access to tennis, educational enrichment, mentorship, scholarships, and life-changing opportunities for young people across Jamaica.