Bartlett urges diaspora to help build a stronger, more resilient Jamaica
Key Points(5)
- Tourism Minister Hon.
- Edmund Bartlett, OJ, MP, has challenged Jamaicans living abroad to become active partners in building a stronger and more resilient Jamaica, describing the diaspora as one of the country's greatest resources for national development.
- "The diaspora has to tell the story.
- They are the eyes and ears of Jamaica," Bartlett said, urging overseas Jamaicans to help share the reality of modern Jamaica and strengthen the country's image internationally.
- Throughout his presentation, the minister highlighted the tremendous value of the diaspora's knowledge, expertise, professional networks and global influence.
Jamaica's Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett, OJ, MP, has challenged Jamaicans living abroad to become active partners in building a stronger and more resilient Jamaica, describing the diaspora as one of the country's greatest resources for national development.
Speaking during the plenary session, "Securing Jamaica's Future: Building National Climate, Tourism and Disaster Resilience," at the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, Bartlett emphasized that resilience is a shared responsibility requiring the collective efforts of government, communities, businesses and Jamaicans across the globe.
"The diaspora has to tell the story. They are the eyes and ears of Jamaica," Bartlett said, urging overseas Jamaicans to help share the reality of modern Jamaica and strengthen the country's image internationally.
Throughout his presentation, the minister highlighted the tremendous value of the diaspora's knowledge, expertise, professional networks and global influence. He encouraged Jamaicans abroad to remain connected to the island and contribute not only financially, but also through mentorship, innovation, investment and the sharing of skills.
A recurring theme of the discussion was the need to place resilience at the center of Jamaica's future development. Bartlett noted that climate change is no longer a distant concern but a present-day reality affecting communities, infrastructure and economies around the world.
He pointed out that many of Jamaica's tourism assets are located along the coastline, giving the island its natural beauty while also increasing its exposure to rising sea levels, coastal erosion and severe weather events. Protecting those assets, he said, requires long-term planning, innovation and collaboration across sectors.
Bartlett also stressed the importance of developing human capacity, describing people as Jamaica's most valuable resource. He encouraged greater investment in education, skills development and technology while highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital innovation in shaping future opportunities.
The minister challenged delegates to think beyond traditional approaches and embrace new ideas that can strengthen communities and improve national competitiveness. He noted that visitors increasingly seek fresh experiences and innovation, creating opportunities for Jamaica to continue evolving while preserving the cultural authenticity that makes the island unique.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change and global uncertainty, Bartlett delivered an optimistic message focused on opportunity and action. He urged Jamaicans at home and abroad to view resilience not simply as the ability to recover from adversity, but as the ability to adapt, innovate and build a stronger future.
His remarks resonated with delegates gathered from around the world, reinforcing the conference's broader message that Jamaica's global diaspora remains a vital partner in the country's continued growth and development.
As discussions continue throughout the conference, Bartlett's call to action was clear: Jamaica's future will be strengthened when its people, wherever they reside, use their talents, experience and influence to help tell the country's story and contribute to building a more resilient nation for generations to come.
