THE Jamaica Chapter of the London School of Economics (LSE) Alumni Association in partnership with NCB Capital Markets Limited, recently convened a high-level leadership conversation at Danya’s Coffee Barrel in Kingston to celebrate the school’s 130th anniversary.

British High Commissioner to Jamaica Alicia Herbert and Canadian High Commissioner Mark Berman both reflected on how LSE shaped their global careers and engaged fellow alumni on the enduring diplomatic relations with Jamaica and their visions for the future.

“Jamaica is already going in the right direction. I think the Government already has plans for a modernised and more technology-based agricultural sector. I think that post-Melissa, with the development of NaRRA [National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority] and the investments, there really is an opportunity… to build better and stronger. So, as we look at that, I think there’s an opportunity for Canada to play a role. It’s not just public money, it’s private [sector] money as well,” said Berman.

Hurricane Melissa struck the island on October 28, 2025, a few weeks after Herbert began her tour of duty in the island, therefore, resilience and sustainability are top of mind for her and will continue to shape British development cooperation with Jamaica while she is the country’s top diplomat in the island.

“Hurricane Melissa has accelerated a national conversation around resilience. What does resilient infrastructure look like? What does a resilient economy look like? What was a devastating hurricane is possibly an inflection point and will therefore set us on a different path in terms of sustainability,” said Herbert.

Dr Leo-Rey Gordon, head of economic and financial research and analysis at National Commercial Bank, congratulated the LSE on 130 years of global impact and its dynamic relationship with the Caribbean.

“NCB Capital Markets Limited was pleased to partner with the Jamaica Alumni Chapter in commemorating the London School of Economics’ 130th anniversary. The LSE has a long-standing legacy of shaping global thinkers and leaders committed to building strong institutions that drive sustainable growth.

“Looking ahead, the leadership conversation underscored the importance of innovation, collaboration, and purposeful partnerships as critical enablers in advancing national development and building a better Jamaica, actions that align with our strategic focus,” said Gordon.

British High Commissioner to Jamaica Alicia Herbert (left) outlines her game plan for her tour of duty in Jamaica while Mark Berman, Canadian high commissioner, looks on.