Speakers


Ramona Smart
General Secretary
Ramona Smart serves as the General Secretary of the Barbados YMCA, a role she assumed in 2022 after several years of contributing to charitable initiatives across the island. Bringing a strong foundation in consumer and business‑to‑business market research throughout Barbados and the wider Caribbean, as well as experience as Knowledge Officer for a regional real estate group, Ramona has built her career on data‑driven insight, strategic communication, and community‑centred development. Her passion for youth empowerment aligns deeply with the YMCA’s mission, inspiring her to champion sustainable projects that uplift underserved communities.
Since joining the YMCA, she has led key organisational functions—including policy, HR, donor relations, and programme development. Ramona is committed to advancing strong nonprofit leadership within Barbados, driving organisational resilience, and expanding opportunities for young people to thrive.