KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Tech Beach Retreat (TBR), Jamaica’s foremost technology and innovation platform, has officially canceled its premier event previously scheduled for December 3–5, 2025. The decision reflects the organization’s commitment to prioritizing national recovery over its signature gathering.
Kirk-Anthony Hamilton, CEO and Director of Tech Beach Retreat, described the hurricane’s impact as one of the most severe challenges in Jamaica’s modern history. “The scale of suffering, displacement, and loss throughout the island necessitates a full reallocation of our resources toward relief operations,” Hamilton stated. “While this was a difficult choice, it is unequivocally the right one for our nation at this critical time.”
TBR has initiated refund processes for all prepaid event packages, with numerous attendees voluntarily converting their registrations into direct donations for emergency response initiatives. The organization expressed profound gratitude for this show of global solidarity.
Simultaneously, TBR’s local team and advisory network have pivoted to execute both immediate aid distribution and strategic long-term reconstruction programs. Their on-the-ground activities include assembling and delivering thousands of essential care packages to affected populations, managing the logistics for international supply shipments, and initiating rebuilding projects in the most severely damaged regions.
Technology remains central to TBR’s disaster response strategy. Through a partnership with HPS (Morocco), the organization is deploying Starlink satellite internet units and generators to restore communication and power in isolated communities. Collaborative efforts with Mobeus and Google are underway to develop advanced digital crisis-management systems and control-center operations, enhancing Jamaica’s coordination framework throughout the recovery phase.
Further amplifying its relief campaign, TBR is coordinating two humanitarian cargo flights from Miami, funded through donations, to transport critical supplies to those in need.
“TBR’s core mission has always centered on uniting people, resources, and global networks,” Hamilton emphasized. “These elements are now precisely what Jamaica requires to rebuild.”
The organization is currently channeling tax-exempt contributions without deducting administrative fees through established partners like the American Friends of Jamaica and the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM). Prospective donors are encouraged to reach out via kirk@techbeach.net.
Concluding on a note of defiance and hope, Hamilton affirmed: “Jamaica’s spirit is resilient — we may bend, but we never break. Our nation will emerge from this crisis stronger, more daring, and more impactful than ever before.”