As Jamaica begins its long road to recovery following the destruction left by Hurricane Melissa, renowned humanitarian and founder of Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), Michael Capponi, has called on national leaders to think beyond quick fixes and prioritize solutions that safeguard the island’s cultural and economic foundations.
Capponi, whose organisation is one of the most active responders to the current crisis, expressed concern about the government’s proposal to deploy pre-fabricated container housing for displaced citizens. While acknowledging the urgency of shelter, Capponi warned against decisions that may compromise Jamaica’s long-term interests.
“We understand the need for speed — but speed without foresight can lead to irreversible consequences,” Capponi stated during a recent media briefing.
A Question of Identity, Not Just Infrastructure
Capponi’s concern centers around the delicate balance between rapid response and preserving national identity. For a country like Jamaica, whose international reputation is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and tourism appeal, the introduction of mass-produced, non-native structures could diminish the very essence that draws millions to its shores.
“Jamaica’s charm is not manufactured. It’s organic. It’s alive in its architecture, in its communities, and in the visual rhythm of its towns. Importing foreign housing at scale risks sterilizing that charm,” he cautioned.
Capponi referenced historical precedents, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in the United States, where hastily deployed temporary housing led to years of structural, environmental, and social fallout — far beyond the original crisis.
The GEM Model: From Chaos to Continuity
Since its founding, GEM has carved a distinct path in global disaster relief by rejecting one-dimensional interventions. Under Capponi’s leadership, the organization follows a disciplined three-phase approach: emergency response, stabilization, and long-term rebuilding. This model enables GEM to respond within 72 hours of a disaster while staying embedded in communities for months — often years — to ensure meaningful recovery.
The scope of GEM’s current support to Jamaica is staggering: over 1.5 million pounds of aid shipped via land and air, mobilized by more than 1,300 volunteers and over $4.3 million in resources already committed. Yet Capponi insists the real work lies ahead.
“We can’t just drop aid and walk away. The future of Jamaica — economically, culturally, structurally — depends on what we build, how we build it, and who we empower in the process.”
From South Beach to Global Relief
Capponi’s journey is as unconventional as it is compelling. Once a titan in Miami’s real estate and nightlife sectors — credited with helping to transform South Beach into a luxury destination — he underwent a radical shift in 2011 following personal tragedy. He left the world of entertainment behind and re-emerged as one of the most respected voices in international disaster response.
Since then, GEM has operated in over 70 countries and every US state, delivering more than $620 million in aid and leading complex logistics missions via sea, land, and air. Its efforts have included not only emergency relief but also the construction of permanent housing, schools, and micro-economic support systems.
A Call for Sovereign Solutions
Capponi’s core message to Jamaica’s leadership is clear: sovereignty must not be traded for speed. In times of disaster, international partners must complement — not override — local vision.
“True resilience is not just bouncing back, but bouncing forward — with our identity intact, our economy reinvigorated, and our communities stronger than before.”
In a region vulnerable to climate disasters yet rich in culture and potential, Capponi’s appeal is as much a warning as it is a blueprint. The road to recovery, he suggests, must be walked with intention — not just urgency.
