Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Strengthens Engagement for National Development
Kingston, Jamaica – In a remarkable display of unity and collaboration, the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC) and Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council (GJDYC) have bolstered their efforts to engage with the Jamaican government and overseas nationals, signaling a new era of partnership for national development.
Originally comprising just eight members, predominantly from the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), and Canada, these councils have expanded their reach exponentially. Now boasting a combined 30-member representation from diverse regions including Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, and the Middle East, the councils have truly become global entities.
These councils are not just about numbers; they represent a wealth of expertise across various sectors crucial to Jamaica’s development. From agriculture to arts, sports, citizen security, commerce, environment, education, health, and wellness, the councils tap into a diverse pool of talent to support Jamaica’s national development initiatives.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, expressed his satisfaction with the level of engagement, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of the youth members. He highlighted their involvement in key areas such as technology, agriculture, and the creative industries, underscoring their importance in shaping Jamaica’s future.
The upcoming 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, slated for June 16-19 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, promises to be a significant milestone in this journey of collaboration. The theme, ‘United for Jamaica’s Transformation: fostering peace, productivity, and youth empowerment,’ reflects the collective vision of the Diaspora members, emphasizing their commitment to Jamaica’s progress.
Chairman of the Conference, Courtney Campbell, emphasized the deliberate effort to prioritize issues of interest to overseas nationals. He stressed the aim of ensuring tangible benefits for the Diaspora, fostering a sense of inclusion and mutual benefit from their engagement.
In a statement, Mr. Campbell remarked, “We want to ensure that people from the Diaspora leave this conference with a sense that they too are benefiting in real ways from this engagement.”
The strengthened partnership between the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council and the Jamaican government, coupled with the active involvement of overseas nationals, paints a promising picture for Jamaica’s future. As the nation continues on its path of development, this collaboration serves as a beacon of hope and unity, transcending geographical boundaries in pursuit of a common goal: a brighter future for Jamaica and its people.
Commentary:
The enhanced engagement between the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council and the Jamaican government signifies a significant step forward in harnessing the potential of the Diaspora for national development. With representation from diverse regions and expertise across various sectors, these councils are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s progress.
The upcoming Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, providing an opportunity to address key issues and explore innovative solutions. The theme underscores the importance of unity and empowerment, essential elements for driving positive change in Jamaica.
As we look ahead, it is imperative to sustain and deepen this partnership, ensuring that the voices and contributions of the Diaspora are valued and integrated into Jamaica’s development agenda. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Jamaica for generations to come.
