KINGSTON, Jamaica – Delegates to the Jamaican Diaspora Convention 2011 will have more opportunities to participate in the discussions; and to enjoy a Jamaican vacation experience, says Earl Jarrett, Chairman of the Preparatory Committee.
The biennial Convention, to be held at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa in Ocho Rios, June 15-17, one of the country’s leading resort destinations, was previously staged at the Jamaica Conference Centre in Kingston, in 2004, 2006 and 2008.
“Based on discussions with Jamaicans in the Diaspora, it was determined that the convention format, outside of Kingston, would provide a more effective working context,” Mr. Jarrett told the Convention press launch at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, recently (May 20). He said the Convention agenda would allow delegates time to enjoy a vacation in a resort environment.
Mr. Earle Jarrett
The Preparatory Committee Chairman noted that the 2010 Convention had to be postponed due to social unrest in Kingston last May, and said, “Based on expressions of interest, we should see a significant representation of Jamaicans from the Diaspora actively participating in the 2011 Convention.”
Professor Neville Ying, executive director of the Jamaican Diaspora Institute said delegates would be able to view exhibitions mounted by private sector organisations and key government agencies, as well as to interact with representatives from these entities.
“We won’t be leaving fun out of the agenda,” Professor Ying added. For example, a “musical extravaganza” will be held at the end of the Convention, to showcase the best of Jamaican music for participants.
Jason Hall, Deputy Director of Tourism, Attractions, Cruise and Events at the Ministry of Tourism, said tourism industry stakeholders are positioning themselves to build on the opportunities that will emerge from the hosting of the Convention in Ocho Rios.
“We will capitalize on the occasion to encourage delegates to sample and enjoy our tourism offerings,” Mr. Hall said. The aim will be to encourage them to visit Jamaica with their families, more frequently.
Jamaicans from Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States and other regions of the world scheduled to attend the Convention, will be able to access discounted tour and attraction packages.
“The Jamaican Diaspora remain our critical partners in the thrust to market this destination and build Brand Jamaica,” the tourism executive pointed out. “To effectively respond to global challenges, such as the recent recession, we have been striving to forge a more structured partnership with members of the Jamaican Diaspora.”
