It is my privilege and honour to invite our global Jamaican family and friends of Jamaica to the 10th Biennial Global Jamaica Diaspora Conference, set to take place June 16-19 in Montego Bay. This year marks the 10th iteration of the conference that has spanned two decades and stands as a pivotal gathering for the global Jamaican community.

Under the theme ‘United for Jamaica’s Transformation: Fostering Peace, Productivity and Youth Empowerment’, the conference calls into action Jamaicans worldwide to join forces in propelling Jamaica towards becoming a global mecca for trade, investment, sustainable economic growth, and human capital development — where no one is left behind, pursuant to the objectives of our national development policy, Vision 2030.

8 YEARS OF GROWTH

Over the last eight years Jamaica has been working to position itself as a mini superpower in the Caribbean and Latin America. Just over a decade ago Jamaica teetered on the brink of economic destruction. By 2023 the country had earned praise from respected international financial rating institutions as a beacon of economic resilience. This recognition came as a result of sound economic policies which have contributed to a culture of unprecedented sustained economic growth, with a reduced national debt from a high of 147 per cent to 76 per cent.

Jamaica also witnessed 20 consecutive quarters of economic growth pre-COVID pandemic and 10 consecutive quarters post-COVID, while consistently exceeding net reserve expectations. These factors continue to drive both foreign and local investor confidence in Jamaica, and with the Government’s targeted approach to skills training and human capital development, the country has achieved a historic low unemployment rate of 4.2 per cent.

Jamaica is on a clear robust growth trajectory, and this conference will spotlight the myriad investment opportunities now ripe for exploration. From our burgeoning tech industry to traditional sectors like agriculture and tourism, we will showcase how these areas are evolving and how our Diaspora can participate in this growth. Jamaica has indeed been transformed into Destination Trade and Investment.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Against the backdrop of a thriving economy, this conference promises to be the very best. With experts from Jamaica and around the globe gathering to pool ideas and share best practices on a gamut of topics ranging from Jamaica’s booming agriculture and real estate markets to strategies for leveraging the expansion of our infrastructure development, delegates can also anticipate gaining insights into the investment prospects and significance of renewable energy in Jamaica’s sustainable development.

We will also delve into best practices in education and health-care services while exploring avenues for Diaspora engagement to shape meaningful impact for the benefit of all Jamaicans. Discussions will also span pressing issues such as crime prevention and citizen security coupled with the use of technology to foster greater peace, security, and productivity within our nation. Jamaica has already witnessed a 14 per cent reduction in murders and serious crimes, and this is testament to the Government ’s commitment to enhancing national security.

Each session and panel discussion will offer prime investment and networking opportunities to provoke thought, inspire action, and foster long-lasting collaborations across islands and continents where Jamaicans reside. Thematic discourse will tackle systemic issues and explore transformative solutions that resonate at both national and individual levels.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

In recognition of the importance of engaging our 2nd, 3rd and 4th generation Jamaicans in the Diaspora, the conference will have special segments dedicated to youth involvement. Our Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council plays a significant role in facilitating dialogue relevant to the aspirations and challenges of young Jamaicans worldwide. With this in mind, panels have been structured to include youth representatives. Their perspectives are invaluable as they are the torch-bearers who will lead us into the future. We have also extended invitations to various youth groups and student leadership organisations to ensure their active participation in the conference, enriching the dialogue with their unique viewpoints and innovative solutions.

ENTERTAINMENT AND CULTURE

Our planning team has been deliberate to ensure the vibrant culture of Jamaica is on display. To further cash-in on Brand Jamaica, the conference will enable us to explore our cultural and creative sectors spanning film production, literary works, music, fashion, food, art, and even sports. The conference will therefore feature cultural exhibitions, music and art shows, encapsulating the essence of our island’s spirit. Working with our partners at the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Ministry of Culture Entertainment and Sport, the orange economy, also known as the creative economy, will be a key feature throughout the conference with individual brands, companies and agencies marketing their goods and services.

THE MARKETPLACE

The Marketplace offers an array of reasons for attendees to participate in this year’s milestone conference. Serving as a comprehensive one-stop platform, it will streamline access to essential services from a diverse range of providers, including government agencies, private companies, financial institutions, hoteliers, local and Diaspora entrepreneurs.

With 12 ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) already committed to providing expedited services, attendees can expect efficient assistance tailored to their needs. For instance, individuals interested in property acquisition in Jamaica can seek expert guidance on benefit applications onsite, thanks to the presence of the National Housing Trust (NHT). Our legacy partners VM Group and JN Group will also be on hand to discuss mortgage and financial support. Moreover, essential services such as consular assistance, passport issuance, birth certificate procurement, and discussions on citizenship registration will be readily available through entities like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), and the Registrar General’s Department (RGD). The participation of GraceKennedy Group (our third legacy partner) and other sponsors like Digicel, National Bakery, Blue Mahoe, Island Car Rentals, among others, offers attendees a unique opportunity for direct interaction, enabling them to explore offerings and forge meaningful connections.

DIASPORA DAY OF SERVICE

A special day of service scheduled for Thursday, June 20, will conclude the conference, allowing our Diaspora to give back in a meaningful way. This day will see pre-arranged projects for attendees to choose from. Historically, these projects range from educational support at local schools to environmental clean-ups and health-care initiatives. Whether you are interested in participating in a beach clean-up, donating supplies to a school or nursing home or painting a local park, you can contact us at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade to register your project for our Diaspora Day of Service. The Customs Agency is partnering with us to ensure smooth entry into Jamaica for goods and equipment required for the registered projects.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

The message is clear: This conference is your gateway to re-engaging with your homeland in ways that not only drive national development, but also offer personal networking opportunities and avenues for successful investment. From our Diaspora Day of Service to investment networking power breakfasts, business matchmaking (investor start-up) sessions and logistics and accommodation, the Diaspora conference provides a platform for you to bring your insights, talents, skills and resources to contribute to Jamaica’s growth. United, we can ensure that the ties that bind us remain strong and that our collective efforts lead to tangible benefits so no Jamaican is left behind.

The 10th Biennial Global Jamaica Diaspora Conference isn’t just a meeting of minds — it’s a celebration of all things Jamaican. A strategic forum for advancement, and a heartfelt reunion of our global community. Let us come together to celebrate our achievements, address our challenges, and reinforce the vibrant spirit of our nation. We look forward to you joining us in Montego Bay this June to play your part in advancing the welfare of Jamaicans at home and abroad, as we shape the future of our beloved Jamaica, together.

Alando Terrelonge is minister of state in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, with direct portfolio responsibility for Diaspora affairs.