Great Interest in Jamaica Diaspora Conference

The Government is reporting that there is great uptick in expressions of interest by a wide cross-section of stakeholders in the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, to take place from June 16 to 19 in Montego Bay, St. James.

According to Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, planning for the event has been buoyed by the “unprecedented outreach” to the Ministry by private-sector organisations and other stakeholders who want to be a part of the diaspora homecoming, which is a “defining feature of this Conference”.

“This year, we welcome, for the first time, sponsorship support from at least two members of the diaspora in our marketplace, including significant financial commitment as a platinum sponsor by Blue Mahoe Capital, under the leadership of a diasporan living and operating right here in Florida,” he said, while speaking at a satellite launch of the Conference in Florida, United States (US), on April 18.

Mr. Terrelonge added that diaspora-based sponsorships are encouraging, and the Legacy Partners have “remained steadfast in their support”.

The State Minister said he is pleased that a record number of sponsors have come forward and have invested in “tangible ways” to ensure that the Conference will be meaningful as well as rewarding for all.

He noted that the programme contents, activities and focus will be about addressing issues that are of “significance to you,” while also ensuring that the goals of the partnership that have been formed between the various sectors remain relevant and mutually beneficial.

The Minister said that the Global Diaspora Council and Youth Council now have a “wider, more diverse and representative” makeup of Jamaicans from across the world, and they play a critical leadership role in Diaspora engagement, adding that along with the Missions and other stakeholders, the Diaspora Council members have been integral in the planning of the programme of activities, ensuring that the Conference reflects the interest of the diaspora.

“The stage has, therefore, been set for a Conference centred around issues of mutual interest to the diaspora and Jamaica. Issues of health, education, business and investment, youth empowerment, citizen security, peace and productivity, constitutional reform, among other themes, are programmed for discussion,” he said.

Interested persons can register via the online Conference Registration Portal: diasporaconferenceja.eventbrite.com.

Mr. Terrelonge said the Government of Jamaica has long recognised that the sustainability of diaspora engagement also integrally rests with the diaspora youth, and so the draft Conference programme will place much emphasis on youth involvement and empowerment in the sessions and panels over the three days.