ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, says young Jamaicans must be  encouraged to engage in policy discussions, to drive innovation and to contribute to national development.

While addressing the commencement session at the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James on Monday, Terrelonge underscored the importance of creating opportunities for young people, both locally and across the diaspora, to participate meaningfully in discussions that will influence Jamaica’s future.

“I am particularly encouraged by the presence of young professionals, students, and emerging leaders who join us today. I often refer to them as our young kings and queens. Your participation is critical,” he said.

Terrelonge emphasised that young people possess the creativity, energy and fresh perspectives needed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing Jamaica and the wider global community.

“The future we seek to build belongs to you. It belongs to your ideas, your creativity, and energy, which are indispensable to that effort,” he said.

He maintained that as Jamaica navigates an increasingly complex global environment, young people must be empowered to contribute to policymaking, entrepreneurship, technological advancement and sustainable development initiatives.

“We must, therefore, continue to create avenues that allow you, the youth of Jamaica, both at home and across the diaspora, to be able to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions, innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development,” the state minister said.

Terrelonge further emphasised that youth engagement should extend beyond consultation and must include active participation in decision-making processes.

“Your voices must not only be heard but actively incorporated into the decisions that shape our future,” he said.

Terrelonge further noted that events such as the Jamaica Diaspora Conference provide valuable opportunities for young leaders to engage with policymakers, business leaders, innovators and development practitioners from across the globe.

He pointed out that exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences can help equip young people with the skills and networks needed to contribute to national and global development.

Terrelonge also encouraged participants to take full advantage of the conference’s discussions, workshops and networking sessions, noting that meaningful partnerships often emerge through dialogue and collaboration.

He outlined that empowering the next generation of leaders is essential to ensuring Jamaica remains resilient, competitive and innovative in the years ahead.

The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, which runs from June 15 to 18, is being held under the theme ‘Diaspora Partnerships: Rebuilding a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica’.

The event has brought together members of the Jamaican diaspora, government officials, private-sector representatives and development partners to explore solutions aimed at strengthening national development and climate resilience.

—    JIS