New virtual platform to strengthen diaspora connections
Published:Wednesday | January 31, 2024 | 12:25 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer -
WESTERN BUREAU:
A groundbreaking virtual platform, the first of its kind in the region, known as JAM-DEM (Jamaica Diaspora Engagement Model), was officially handed over to the Jamaican Government on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone eight years after its inception.
With a valuation of J$30 million, JAM-DEM is anticipated to strengthen connections, foster engagement, and leverage the best of technology with the global diaspora, as highlighted by Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Alando Terrelonge, during the historic handover ceremony in Kingston.
“The genesis of JAM-DEM can be traced back to thoughtful recommendations arising from the Economic Growth Council in 2016, which inspired the vision during the Seventh Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference in 2017,” he told the hybrid gathering which attracted a large contingent of Jamaicans who watched online from the United States (US), Canada and the United Kingdom (UK).
“This vision further called for a digital mechanism that would bridge the digital divide, connecting and empowering our Jamaican family with information and opportunities for mutual benefit as we collectively work towards national development,” he shared.
In his address, Terrelonge said the realisation of JAM-DEM, witnessed through the symbolic handover exercise, represented a tangible deliverable in their formal diaspora-Government of Jamaica partnership that has been evolving since the inaugural conference held in 2004.
The occasion exemplified the whole-of-society approach rooted in the principles of inclusivity and partnership, fundamental tenets of the National Diaspora Policy adopted at the Diaspora Conference in 2019, along with the Plan of Action to oversee its implementation, he noted.
JAM-DEM, he explained, was not just a standalone initiative, but a collaborative effort involving the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Planning Institute of Jamaica, and the foreign affairs ministry.
“Special recognition is due to the IOM, our esteemed multilateral partner, for their dedication and support in creating this truly diaspora-centric virtual platform.
Acknowledging the meticulous efforts of Krystal Lofters, project manager from the IOM, consultant Derval Dally, and the Diaspora Affairs Department team, their contribution has been pivotal in bringing JAM-DEM to fruition, he added.
“As we cut the proverbial ribbon for the 'Jamaica Diaspora Engagement Model', we envision its role as a catalyst for creating enabling conditions to attract diaspora investments, foster entrepreneurship, stimulate business development, and encourage innovation.”
JAM-DEM’s official launch is set for the upcoming 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference on June 16-19, 2024, in Montego Bay, St James.
In the meantime, its birth has been welcomed wholeheartedly by leaders in the diaspora, with vice chairman of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, Shauna Chin, who is based in California, describing the virtual platform as a major accomplishment.
“One of the biggest questions that they (Jamaicans in the diaspora) ask us all the time is how can they get involved; how they can invest, and most importantly how is the Government working for me in the diaspora.”
She said what this new portal will accomplish is providing a centralised location to serve the diaspora and friends of Jamaica. According to her, many Jamaicans want to return home to live or to buy real estate.
Her comments were bolstered by Global Diaspora Council member Peter Gracey, who said that as representatives they are required to engage with different organisations in the US, Canada, UK, and what JAM-DEM will do is create a directory that is accessible to those in need of information.
“If we need to know about passport; if we need to know about birth certificate, if we need to know how to register for business, all that is on this portal,” he stated.
Terrelonge, in his response Tuesday morning, spoke of this new era of connectivity and engagement, urging others to embrace JAM-DEM as more than just a virtual space.
“Let it symbolise our collective commitment to harnessing the potential of our diaspora, propelling Jamaica towards greater heights while addressing the articulated needs of our diaspora for mutual benefit,” he implored, as the island embarks on a transformative journey.
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