Board of Trustees
Omarie Allen
Omarie is the Founder and Chairman of GEM Sports Foundation, an organization that emerged from his own journey and commitment to using sports as a platform for mentorship and personal growth. He lives by the guiding principle “Be the change you want to see in the world” – a quote by Mahatma Gandhi that shapes both his personal and professional endeavors.
Omarie represented Montserrat in both athletics and cricket. These experiences gave him a deep understanding of the challenges student-athletes face, particularly those from low-income households who often struggle to access the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive in both sports and academics.
Omarie's educational background further complements his leadership in the foundation. He earned a BSc (Hons) in Business Information Technology from the University of Greenwich, equipping him with the skills to navigate and excel in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Through his work and the GEM Sports Foundation, Omarie continues to make a positive impact on the lives of young people, empowering them to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams.
Nadine Duberry
I live by the mantra, “You will never change your life until you change something you do daily; the secret of your success is found in your daily routine,” by Darren Hardy. This philosophy guides my approach to both personal and professional growth.
I hold a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica, and currently serve as a Family Nurse Practitioner in primary healthcare within the Ministry of Health and Social Services. In this role, I am driven by my belief that “health is wealth,” a conviction that inspires me to give my best to every patient I encounter, helping them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
A passionate, caring advocate for people, I am deeply committed to serving others. As a professional, I uphold a standard of service above self, extending this dedication to both my daily work and my community. I currently serve as Treasurer of the Montserrat Nurses Association, where I continue to contribute to the well-being of my community and the advancement of nursing on the island.
Adena D Johnson
Adena is a Marketing and Event professional with a background rooted in International Business and a Master’s in International Trade. Her heart, however, remains in Montserrat, her homeland, where she actively champions its culture and economic growth. As the Secretary of the Montserrat Arts Council (MAC), she uses her expertise to support and elevate the arts community. Additionally, she co-founded the Produced in Montserrat Expo (PRIME), an initiative focused on fostering trade and business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Guided by her positive outlook and the mantra, "Control your own destiny or someone else will," Adena believes passionately in the power of self-investment. She encourages others to take chances on themselves, to recognise their own potential, and to pursue their dreams no matter the odds. Her journey is one of dedication and persistence, and she intends to continue inspiring others to reach for excellence in all that they do. Adena knows first-hand that investing in oneself is the first step toward a fulfilled life, and she embodies this philosophy in every endeavour. She hopes to share this drive with our future athletes.
Julius Fergus
Julius Fergus is a dynamic and accomplished individual who has represented Montserrat in basketball, music, and academics from a young age. His passion for sports—including football, basketball, and athletics—has fuelled his rise to becoming Vice President of the Montserrat Amateur Basketball Association.
Guided by the quote from Leo Buscaglia, “God's gift to us: potential. Our gift to God: developing it,” Julius launched Ascendant Sports in 2021. This sports development company is focused on empowering Montserrat’s youth, equipping them to seize opportunities through athletic training and mentorship. Having grown up in similar circumstances to many of the island’s young athletes, Julius feels a deep sense of duty to help shape the next generation, ensuring they can fully harness the potential that sports can provide.
Beyond his commitment to sports, Julius also serves as the Assistant Civil Engineer and Clerk of Works at Montserrat’s Ministry of Communications, Works, Labour, and Energy. He holds a Diploma in Structural Engineering from the University of Technology, Jamaica, and is currently pursuing a BSc in Construction Management, further expanding his expertise in engineering and infrastructure development.
Chaquille Sam
Chaquille is a founding member of the Track Alliance Club in Montserrat and a proud member of the Montserrat Track and Field team. A passionate sports enthusiast and dedicated athlete, he has represented his country on both local and international stages in Cricket and Track & Field.
Throughout his athletic journey, Chaquille has had the privilege of training with world-class athletes, including former 100m record holder Asafa Powell, Olympic champions Nesta Carter, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Shericka Jackson. Under the expert guidance of Coach Stephen Francis at Jamaica's renowned MVP Track Club, he has gained invaluable experience and knowledge while honing his skills at the highest levels of competition.
Chaquille holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Construction Engineering from the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTECH). He is currently employed at the Public Works Department, where he is passionate about giving back to his community. His commitment extends beyond his profession, as he is dedicated to nurturing local talent, promoting fitness, and using sports as a vehicle for positive community development and empowerment.
Sherny Burns
Shernyl is a passionate sportsman who has represented Montserrat at an elite level in both cricket and track and field, competing regionally and internationally. He has captained Montserrat’s cricket teams from the Under-15 division up to the senior level and has coached several junior teams. Additionally, he played for the Leeward Islands from Under-15 to Under-19, further showcasing his dedication to the sport.
In athletics, Shernyl competed for the University of Technology, Jamaica, during his collegiate years, training alongside internationally renowned athletes while earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management. He has proudly represented Montserrat at the Commonwealth Games on two occasions and has competed in a World Championship, as well as multiple regional events.
Currently, Shernyl is pursuing an postgraduate certificate in International Sports Management at the University of London. His extensive experience, having navigated both the triumphs and challenges of competitive sports, positions him as an ideal mentor to guide and inspire the next generation of young athletes.