Jamaican-born Antonette Brown, IT project manager at ArchCare, recounts she was fascinated by how technology could solve various problems in different ways. “The beauty of technology is that it changes every day and offers a unique experience of continued learning,” Brown stated.

Her introduction to technology started when she was in college, majoring in international relations because it was her dream at the time to work with the United Nations. During her studies, Brown worked for a non-profit organisation where she had the opportunity to learn the technology basics. She recalls that her boss encouraged her to explore a career in tech. This encouragement saw her landing her first tech job, an experience which was a natural progression. As Brown’s career evolved, she found it essential to understand how technology could impact and drive business outcomes, which ultimately led her to pursue her master’s in technology management.

In her current role, Brown works directly with the chief information office and oversees the successful implementation of business and system projects relating to software and security development.

Brown asserted that she was initially hesitant about pursuing a career in tech. However, years later, she has had a rewarding career and advises anyone interested in pursuing a career in tech should “go for it” because technology has a broad scope with many opportunities to leverage.

As a Jamaica Diaspora Task Force Action Network (JDTAN) member, Brown asserted that JDTAN’s mission is to use a collaborative approach to engage and mobilise the Diaspora to join forces. She further outlined that JDTAN is currently hosting a series of “Jaminars” to increase the knowledge-sharing capacity within and beyond the network. The Jaminars feature topics such as automation and blockchain.

Brown is particularly interested in and passionate about a training project with the Department of Correctional Services and Stand Up for Jamaica, with whom they are currently working to formalise a technology training partnership for inmates. This will support the target group’s economic independence and upward social mobility post-incarceration because they will be equipped with the skill set to pursue technological jobs such as help desk technicians. This will also allow them to forge a path towards becoming technology entrepreneurs.

Brown believes that, “No matter who you are, you should always be willing to help others.”