A vibrant organization celebrating Jamaican culture and strengthening community ties in Ottawa
Promoting unity, cultural awareness, and empowerment within the Jamaican and wider Caribbean community in Ottawa.
We aim to preserve and share Jamaican heritage while fostering collaboration, education, and social engagement across generations. JOCA is dedicated to celebrating Jamaican culture, supporting our community, and strengthening the connection between Jamaica and the Ottawa region.
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Host annual cultural celebrations, community gatherings, and festivals showcasing Jamaican holidays, music, food, and art. |
Collaborate with local organizations to strengthen cultural exchange, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. |
| Category | Technology |
|---|---|
| Frontend | Next.js 16 (App Router) • React • TypeScript • Tailwind CSS |
| Backend/CMS | Strapi 5 • GraphQL • Apollo Client |
| Database | PostgreSQL • Prisma ORM |
| Authentication | Better Auth • Session Management |
| UI Components | shadcn/ui |
| Deployment | Vercel (Frontend) • Strapi Cloud (CMS) • Prisma Postgres (DB) |
JOCA/
├── 📱 joca-app/ # Next.js frontend application
│ ├── src/
│ │ ├── app/ # App Router pages & routes
│ │ ├── components/ # Reusable UI components
│ │ ├── lib/ # Utilities, auth, database
│ │ └── types/ # TypeScript definitions
│ └── prisma/ # Database schema & migrations
│
├── 🎨 joca-cms/ # Strapi headless CMS
│ ├── src/
│ │ ├── api/ # Content types (events, elections, members)
│ │ └── extensions/ # Custom plugins & extensions
│ └── config/ # CMS configuration
│
└── 📚 docs/ # Architecture Decision Records (ADRs)
- View upcoming JOCA elections and referenda
- Access voting information and candidate details
- Digital ballot system integration
- Browse upcoming cultural events and gatherings
- Save events to your personal calendar
- Category filtering (Culture, Community, Education)
- User authentication and profiles
- Personalized dashboard
- Event saved list
- Responsive design (mobile-first)
- Dark/light mode support
- Smooth animations and transitions
- Accessible components (ARIA compliant)
Whether you're of Jamaican descent, part of the Caribbean diaspora, or simply interested in learning more about Jamaica's rich culture, JOCA welcomes you.
Our community thrives on diversity, shared experiences, and a passion for making a positive impact in Ottawa and beyond.
This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for details.
Built with ❤️ by Carleton Blueprint
Special thanks to all contributors and community members who make JOCA possible!
© 2026 Jamaican Ottawa Community Association (JOCA)
Celebrating Heritage • Building Community • Empowering Generations
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