US-based Vincentian entrepreneur, engineer and philanthropist Jacqueline James-Lyttle has been recognised by New York Weekly magazine as one of the “Top 20 Women Entrepreneurs to Look Out For in 2025.”
The magazine said James-Lyttle exemplifies unrelenting excellence across academics, athletics, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and global leadership.
It noted her Vincentian birth, adding that she defied the odds to become the first Black female engineering graduate from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering while excelling as a two-time All-American scholar-athlete.
James-Lyttle went on to achieve a Master of Science and doctorate in civil and architectural engineering at the University of Miami, advancing research in energy efficiency and sustainability.
“Dr. James-Lyttle shattered glass ceilings as an educator and mentor, driving innovation and diversity in sustainable engineering,” the magazine further stated.
It said James-Lyttle is recognized globally as a humanitarian and trailblazer, whose “unparalleled vision and resilience cement her legacy as a force for global change”.
Meanwhile, a press release said that the New York Weekly accolade underscores James-Lyttle’s “extraordinary contributions to business, innovation, and global impact across multiple industries”.
James-Lyttle, founder of Universal EME, Global 27 LLC, and Imara Engineering, has built a reputation as a dynamic leader with an unyielding drive for excellence.
She holds a doctorate in civil and architectural engineering, a Master’s of Science in architectural engineering and a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering and her expertise spans academia, research and business leadership.
Her groundbreaking work in sustainable engineering, coupled with her entrepreneurial ventures, has positioned her as a force of transformation across sectors.
Upon receiving this honour, Dr. shared her gratitude and reflections on the recognition:
“The weight and true honour of being named one of the top 20 women entrepreneurs to watch in 2025 is still sinking in,” James-Lyttle said.
“To have this recognition come from New York Weekly makes it even more profound. My dreams are big, and I often keep my head down, focused on achieving them. But in moments like this, when I’m encouraged to pause and take in the results, the feeling is nothing short of surreal. I am deeply grateful.”
James-Lyttle said there is “no greatness without gratitude” and thanked her “village, my circle, and all those who have cheered me on.
“I’m also appreciative of those who have struggled to support me, as they unknowingly fuel my inspiration.”
James-Lyttle, who was born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, made history as the first Black female engineering graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy.
Also, she has been a two-time All-American scholar-athlete, a lecturer and researcher for over a decade, and a principal investigator in multiple high-impact projects.
“Beyond academia, James-Lyttle has built an empire that spans engineering, real estate, music, technology and philanthropy,” the press release said.
As the founder of IMARA Engineering Consulting — now GFD Group Miami — she has redefined excellence in architecture, engineering and construction management.
Alongside her husband, international soca star Kevin Lyttle, she co-founded a music conglomerate and launched VONZUU, a cutting-edge technology platform poised to revolutionise transportation and delivery in the Caribbean.
Her ventures also include Global 27 Inc., a firm specialising in sustainable luxury developments and KidsVille, a groundbreaking childcare and entertainment facility.
In philanthropy, she co-founded the Janice Lyttle Foundation, leading multi-million-dollar initiatives for heart disease awareness, disaster relief and community upliftment. During the volcanic eruption in St. Vincent in 2021 and Hurricane Beryl in 2024, the Janice Lyttle Foundation spearheaded relief efforts, demonstrating James-Lyttle’s unwavering commitment to global betterment.
James-Lyttle’s impact has been widely recognised. She has been inducted into the Coast Guard Academy Hall of Fame and named one of Miami’s most influential Black women.
Congratulations are in order.
Congratulations to her, pray that she keep excelling to greatness.
I am very proud of you Jacqueline James – Lyttle. Also, proud to be a Vincentian. Our Country has come a long way of highly recognized young people, we are even so proud of our Pilots, all of our young entrepreneurs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We are bless to be the Gem of the Antilles.
Blessings Congratulations on all your achievements awesome keep climbing good luck and God’s blessings.