Diaspora Conference Embraces Innovation

The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference is embracing innovation with the introduction of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Connect platform and NFC RFID-enabled wristbands.

State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, said the tech allows delegates, sponsors and exhibitors to network and engage more seamlessly throughout the event, while exploring new ideas to advance national development.

He was addressing the opening ceremony of the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, which officially got under way on Tuesday, June 16, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St. James.

Mr. Terrelonge said the technological additions reflected Jamaica’s readiness to leverage innovation as a catalyst for growth and progress.

He noted that innovation must remain central to Jamaica’s development strategy and that the conference provides an ideal platform for Jamaicans at home and abroad to share ideas, expertise and resources that can help shape the country’s future.

“This conference provides a platform to explore these new ideas, technologies, and partnerships that can accelerate Jamaica’s progress,” the Minister outlined.

“The discussions that emerge over the coming days will help shape policies, partnerships, and initiatives that can and will deliver tangible benefits for Jamaicans at home and abroad,” he added.

The conference’s agenda spans a broad range of critical areas, including investment, entrepreneurship, social impact, volunteerism, youth engagement, disaster recovery and reconstruction, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic resilience.

In the meantime, Mr. Terrelonge pointed out Government’s ongoing efforts to deepen engagement with diaspora communities around the world. He noted that new opportunities continue to be created for Jamaicans living overseas to contribute to the country’s development and share in its progress.

“The success of this conference is itself a testament, a testament to the shared commitment that together we will work towards achieving the brightest future for all Jamaicans,” the Minister underscored.

For his part, Conference Chair, Earl Jarrett, indicated that the event is a powerful symbol of national unity, pointing to the scale of participation as proof that Jamaicans everywhere remain deeply invested in the island’s future.

According to him, the conference’s shared “language of love and affinity” celebrates Jamaican heritage and strengthens the local and foreign networks.