John Jones, the director of Thirteen Acre Farms in Barbados, is the recipient of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants’ 2026 Champions of Change Award.

Sponsored by illycaffè, the award recognizes and celebrates unsung heroes within the hospitality sector who are driving meaningful action in their communities and creating blueprints for a more inclusive and sustainable future. Introduced in 2021 amid the industry’s post-pandemic rebuilding, the award supports grassroots leaders whose work contributes to long-term progress in the food eco-system. It includes a financial donation to support the recipient’s work.

“This award means so much to our business because it gives us hope to continue inspiring communities across the island whilst increasing fellowship amongst farmers and chefs,” says Jones. “Furthermore, it shines light on work done selflessly. On behalf of all the staff at Thirteen Acres we thank you for this recognition.”

Photos of John Jones and Thirteen Acres Farms’ staff are courtesy of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Jones, who is known as The Bajan Farmer, acquired Thirteen Acres Farms in 2022. Since then, he has focused on lowering the country’s food import bill while strengthening local food security by cultivating crops such as sweet potatoes, watermelon, and broccoli – a previously imported vegetable – alongside other produce typically sourced from abroad. Looking beyond Barbados, Jones also hopes to establish farms across Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations in support of regional efforts to reduce food imports.

A former collegiate basketball player and Illinois State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness, Jones applies a global outlook to his leadership in community-based agriculture. In 2023, he received the Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Innovation and Philanthropy in Barbados with recognition of his contributions to agriculture and social development. In January 2026, he was appointed to the Inter-American Development Bank BOLD Catalyst Board with Barbados Country Office, where he collaborates with fellow leaders to provide insight and perspective supporting the 2025-2030 Country Strategy in Barbados. Passionate about strengthening local food systems, Jones delivers hands-on agricultural training to both youth and adults, inspiring a new generation to view farming as a viable, sustainable, and empowering career path.

“John Jones embodies the true spirit of the Champions of Change Award, sponsored by illycaffè,” says a spokesperson for North America’s 50 Best Restaurants. “His commitment to strengthening local food systems with Thirteen Acre Farms extends far beyond the plate. By investing time and dedication to both the island and community, John is creating a lasting model that will inspire meaningful change across the Caribbean and beyond.”

Jones’ recognition is the first of three special awards to be revealed ahead of the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 ceremony, taking place in New Orleans on Thursday, May 28, 2026. The Art of Hospitality Award and the One To Watch Award will be unveiled in the months leading up to the event.