Jamaicans to attend Diaspora Conference in Hartford

Scores of Jamaicans and friends of the country residing in the Northeast United States of America (USA) will converge on Hartford, Connecticut, from October 29 to 31, for the Jamaica Diaspora Northeast USA Regional Conference.
The conference will be held under the theme: ‘Revitalising the Diaspora, Rebuilding Jamaica’, at the West Indian Social Club (WISC), in downtown Hartford, and aims to engage the Jamaican Diaspora in a dialogue on how to contribute, in a meaningful and sustained manner, to nation building.
“Jamaicans in the Diaspora should be resolved to play their part in more tangible ways to effect change in the growth and development of Jamaica and the USA. Through these efforts our contribution will energise and mobilise a process of positive change for the Jamaican people, thus making Jamaica the place of choice to live, work, raise a family and do business,” Chairman of the Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board for the Northeast USA, Patrick Beckford told JIS News.
On Friday, October 29, the conference will kick off with a welcoming and networking session, where the focus will be on personal branding and self- marketing. Session presenters will focus on tips for persons who are currently unemployed and under-employed as well as small and minority owned businesses.
On Saturday, October 30, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey Marks will declare the conference open at 9:00 a.m., while Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Mrs. Geneive Brown-Metzgar will address conference participants.
Following the opening ceremony, there will be four workshops and plenary sessions, including a discussion on the role of the Jamaican Diaspora; and the importance of a management (governance) structure within the Diaspora.
One of the highlights of the weekend will be an investment seminar, with Jampro’s Regional Manager, Robert Kerr making a presentation on existing business and investment opportunities in Jamaica. Another breakout session will address the issues of business development, budgeting and asset protection, and will be of particular interest to persons in the import/export sector.
Mr. Beckford said that in recognition of the importance of engaging youth and emerging leaders in the Diaspora, a workshop under the theme: ‘Our Homeland, Our Future’, will be convened to share ideas and best practices consistent with nation building in the 21st Century.