About SJ Caribbean

The South Jersey Caribbean Cultural and Development Organization, Inc (SJCCDO) is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization established for charitable and educational purposes.

The SJCCDO was founded by the late Nkem Tshombe, a former Camden resident and proud Caribbean man. He was actively involved in promoting Caribbean cultural and arts events in Philadelphia region for many years. His love and knowledge of Caribbean music, history and art lead to the formation of the SJCCDO.

The SJCCDO’s mission is to promote understanding and awareness of Caribbean culture through arts, cultural and educational programs.

Since 2001, the SJCCDO has provided educational and cultural activities to residents in the Southern New Jersey region. Many of the SJCCDO’s activities have taken place in the City of Camden providing programming for disadvantaged youth. Programs include Steel Drum workshops, cultural dance performances and an Annual Caribbean Festival.

About the South Jersey Caribbean Festival

The South Jersey Caribbean Festival celebrates the vibrant and diverse culture and traditions of the Caribbean islands.

The Annual South Jersey Caribbean Festival is a FREE cultural event that showcases Caribbean art, music, food, and dance. This multi-cultural family event attracts people from the New Jersey and Philadelphia regions with its dynamic entertainment and Caribbean food favorites such as Jerk Chicken, Oxtails, Curry Shrimp, Roti and more. There are free activities in the children’s tent, community information, health screenings, Caribbean food vendors and FREE giveaways.

The South Jersey Caribbean Festival began in 2001 with the support of the Walt Whitman Arts Center in Camden NJ. Over the years, we have had many community partners that help the festival take place. The South Jersey Caribbean Festival has featured local artists including Camden’s Universal African Dance Ensemble, Ras Niger Ali, Camden's Sophisticated Sisters and Grammy nominated Latin Jazz group, Cintron. International artists that have perform include Alison Hinds, Dexta Daps, Kerwin Dubois, Black Stalin, Swallow, the Mighty Sparrow, Alston “Beckett” Cyrus, Kevin Lyttle, Farmer Nappy and many more.