In an era where technology is transforming industries, Dean Jones stands out as a visionary entrepreneur who is reshaping the real estate landscape in Jamaica.With an extensive knowledge of digital innovation and a dedication to social impact, Dean has developed a platform that helps people realize their aspirations of becoming homeowners while also simplifying property transactions. His journey from a creative young boy in London to the founder of a digital real estate platform is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Background
Dean Jones, a British Black entrepreneur, was born in 1978 at Whittington Hospital, London. Raised in Angel, Islington, Dean’s upbringing was a mix of urban life and deep cultural heritage. His father hails from Maroon Town, Jamaica, a place with significant historical relevance as a settlement for escaped slaves. Dean’s mother is a first-generation descendant of the Windrush generation, with roots tracing back to Guys Hill, St. Mary, and Spanish Town in Jamaica. This blend of British and Jamaican influences played a vital role in shaping Dean’s identity and his commitment to creating lasting societal impact.
From a young age, Dean displayed a natural talent for art and design, a passion he nurtured throughout his childhood. He attended Hugh Myddelton Primary School in London, where his creativity was fostered through drawing. His interest in technology began early when, at the age of nine, he acquired a second-hand Spectrum 64 computer, sparking his fascination with programming and game design.
Education and Early Career
Dean’s academic journey was marked by outstanding achievements. From 1990 to 1994, he attended Loxford High School in Essex, where he was a standout student, consistently earning top grades. His passion for design led him to Barking Technical College, where he pursued a diploma in graphic design. During his time there, he won a poster design competition for the Barking Carnival in 1995, an accolade presented by the Mayor of Essex. This victory not only solidified his confidence in his design abilities but also connected him with influential figures in his community.
In 1996, Dean made a significant leap by gaining admission to Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, a prestigious institution known for its excellence in design education. As the only student from Barking Technical College to make it into Central Saint Martins, Dean broke barriers, becoming the only Black student in his year group. He excelled in graphic design, particularly in animation and film, where his work gained recognition. He completed his bachelor’s degree with honors and later pursued a master’s degree in Communication Design, which he completed in 2000.
Professional Career
Dean’s professional journey is as diverse as his educational background. After completing his master’s, he faced an opportunity at Rushes, a prominent film production studio in London. However, due to his religious commitments, specifically observing the Sabbath, Dean chose not to take the position. Instead, he gained experience working at Hackney Council and The Voice newspaper in Brixton, where he honed his skills as a layout designer and collaborated with journalists. This phase of his career helped him build a strong foundation in both the public and private sectors.
In 2006, Dean shifted his focus towards building surveying and project management, obtaining a postgraduate diploma and master’s degree in Building Surveying from LSBU. His time with Scott Wilson, now part of AECOM, marked the beginning of a series of high-profile roles in project management. Throughout his career, Dean has held senior positions at renowned organizations such as AECOM, Care UK, and Cranfield University, delivering multi-million-pound projects across sectors like healthcare, real estate, and defense.
Jamaica Homes: A Vision for Digital Real Estate
Dean is perhaps best known as the founder of Jamaica-homes.com, a digital real estate platform he created to revolutionize the Jamaican property market. Launched with the vision of democratizing access to property ownership in Jamaica, the platform serves as a one-stop shop for buying, selling, and renting properties on the island. Dean recognized that the Jamaican real estate market was fragmented, with individual agencies operating in silos, and sought to create a platform that would foster collaboration and transparency.
Jamaica-homes.com provides users with access to property listings, virtual tours, and real-time data, allowing Jamaicans—both at home and in the diaspora—to explore and invest in the property market from anywhere in the world(The Importance of Digit…). The platform also offers financial education and is working with banks and developers to open up access to mortgages and credit, with the aim of making homeownership more attainable for all Jamaicans. Dean’s efforts have not only transformed how real estate is conducted in Jamaica but have also contributed to the growth of the local economy.
Personal Life
Dean is a devoted Christian, husband, and father of two—Sian and Rhys. His personal life is deeply intertwined with his values, and he draws strength from his faith and family. Despite the challenges he has faced as a Black professional in the UK and Jamaica, Dean remains committed to using his talents to make the world a better place. His experiences of overcoming racial discrimination in both educational and professional settings have fueled his passion for diversity and inclusion in industries that often lack representation at senior levels.
Dean’s connection to Jamaica remains strong. He frequently visits the island and holds a deep appreciation for its natural beauty, culture, and history. As the second cousin of reggae legend Gregory Isaacs, Dean is proud of his family’s contributions to Jamaican culture, even as he forges his own path in the world of real estate and project management.
Contributions to the Industry
Throughout his career, Dean has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the construction and real estate sectors. He was recognized in the “Black Excellence in the Building Industry” list, which highlighted his contributions and the need for greater racial diversity at senior levels in the UK construction industry. In an interview, Dean voiced his concerns about the lack of inclusivity in the sector, stating that diversity is often reduced to a “buzzword” or “tick-box exercise” rather than a genuine effort to create a more inclusive environment.
Dean continues to make significant strides in his field, using his platform to advocate for systemic change and to mentor young professionals entering the industry. His leadership extends beyond the projects he manages—he is actively involved in shaping the future of the real estate and construction industries through his advocacy and forward-thinking approach to digital transformation.
Conclusion
Dean Jones stands as a remarkable figure in the worlds of real estate, project management, and digital innovation. From his humble beginnings in Islington to becoming the founder of a transformative real estate platform in Jamaica, Dean’s journey is a testament to his perseverance, vision, and commitment to making a positive impact. His commitment to breaking down boundaries, supporting diversity, and using technology to provide opportunities for others keeps inspiring people around him. With a career that spans continents and industries, Dean remains a trailblazer who is shaping the future of real estate in Jamaica and beyond.
