Jamaica’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, has extended an invitation to the Jamaican diaspora to participate in the forthcoming 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference.
This event, set to run from June 16 to 19, promises to blend leisure with meaningful engagement, offering attendees an opportunity for rest, reconnection, networking, and access to a wide range of governmental and private-sector services.
A tribute to pioneers
This invitation was made during a virtual event organized to honor Jamaican pioneers residing in Atlanta, Georgia.
The ceremony, titled ‘Our Stories, Jamaican Pioneers in Georgia,’ highlighted the contributions of these individuals and was orchestrated by Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in Atlanta, Dr. Elaine Bryan.
Read more: Jamaicans in Atlanta recognized for contribution to community development
A beacon for transformation
Scheduled at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, the conference is themed ‘United for Jamaica’s transformation: fostering peace, productivity, and youth empowerment.’
Alando Terrelonge, who oversees diaspora affairs, shared that an array of activities is planned to encourage dialogue on vital national progress aspects like health, tourism, sports, security, and productivity.
The aim is to explore how the diaspora can further contribute to success in their adopted countries while fostering development in Jamaica.
Cultural celebrations and practical services
Participants can expect a vibrant showcase of Jamaican culture, including music, art, and other cultural exhibitions.
The event will also feature ‘Government at Your Service’ booths, offering expedited services for essential documents like passports, birth certificates, and citizenship papers.
Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to pay property taxes and register businesses in Jamaica, simplifying these processes for the diaspora.
Recognizing excellence: The Governor-General’s Achievement Awards
A highlight of the conference will be the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards for the Diaspora, celebrating the significant achievements of Jamaicans worldwide.
Nominations are open for community members to acknowledge their peers, with a submission deadline of March 31.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to honoring the remarkable contributions of its diaspora.
Details on registration, accommodation, and airline rates will be announced during the Global Launch of the Conference on April 4, 2024, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Kingston.
