Philadelphia to host inaugural Jamaica Diaspora Conference

The city of Philadelphia is to host the inaugural Jamaica Diaspora Conference from June 12–14, as part of Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations this year.

This ground breaking, three-day event will convene Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica from across the United States and around the world to engage in critical dialogue on development, culture, education, investment, and global cooperation.

Hosted by Jamaica Diaspora Northeast, the conference will take place at Municipal Services Building, bringing together government officials, business leaders, educators, artists, and members of the Jamaican diaspora for panels discussions, workshops, and cultural showcases.

Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alsion Wilson heads the list of presenters for the event that includes, past Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC) Northeast representatives Akelia Maitland and Dr Karren Dunkley.

“We are thrilled to bring this first-of-its-kind conference to Philadelphia, a city that reflects the strength and diversity of the Caribbean-American experience. Our goal is to build bridges between Jamaica and its global diaspora, while celebrating our rich heritage and collective power to shape the future,” noted Michelle Tulloch-Neil, the GJDC representative and conference convenor.

The conference will begin on Thursday, June 12, with a keynote welcome and special remarks from local and international government officials.

Programme highlights include:

• Diaspora investment forum

• Cultural and Creative Industries Showcase

• Policing and Community

• Women in Leadership Panel

• Health and Wellness in the Diaspora

• Networking Receptions and Cultural Entertainment

The Jamaica Diaspora Conference aims to foster lasting partnerships and to recognise the diaspora’s vital role in national development. The event also aligns with broader efforts to amplify Caribbean voices during National Caribbean American Heritage Month, observed each June in the United States.

Registration and full programme details will soon be available at bit.ly/NE Diaspora conference.