THIS summer, GraceKennedy (GK) Group will again host four university students of Jamaican heritage from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada as participants in its prestigious Jamaican Birthright Programme (GK Birthright).

Now in its 21st year, GK Birthright connects second- and third-generation Jamaicans living abroad with their ancestral homeland. The five-week internship programme, which is co-ordinated by the GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF), will take place from June 23 to August 6, providing participants with hands-on professional experiences across various GK subsidiaries in Jamaica. The students will also engage with Jamaica’s history and culture through curated heritage tours and cultural excursions.

“Since 2004, 61 interns have participated in the GK Birthright Programme and left the experience with a deeper sense of self and connection to Jamaica,” said Frank James, GraceKennedy group CEO. “We are proud to continue empowering young members of the Diaspora to explore their roots and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

GKF CEO Caroline Mahfood highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “These young people have all expressed a strong interest in learning more about their Jamaican heritage. We are confident that their time with us will support personal and professional growth while deepening their bond with Jamaica.”

Following an extensive selection process the successful candidates are Lauren Roach, University of Miami, United States; Josiah Royes, Hofstra University, United States; Abigail Ralph, McGill University, Canada; and Kyrah McIntosh, Liverpool Hope University, United Kingdom.

The annual GraceKennedy Jamaican Birthright Programme is made possible through a network of partners who share GK’s commitment to nation-building and Diaspora engagement. These include Island Car Rentals, Caribbean Airlines, Jamaica Tourist Board, Jakes Hotel, Flow Jamaica, Island Grill, Juici Patties, Restaurant Associates Ltd, Restaurants of Jamaica, Bob Marley Museum; along with GK companies Hi-Lo Food Stores, Grace Foods & Services, and World Brands Services.

“We are grateful to our partners who help create a truly enriching and well-rounded Jamaican experience for our interns,” added Mahfood.