Jamaican Diaspora Conference Plans Underway; Southern US Diaspora Prepares

MIAMI – The Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States in conjunction with the Jamaica Consulate in Miami is presently preparing for the staging of the third biennial National Diaspora Conference to be held on June 16 and 17, in Kingston.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Borderless Partnership for Development” and is being organized by the Ministry of Foreign affairs and Foreign Trade.

This year’s event is expected to bring together over 700 Jamaicans nationals from the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, the Caribbean region, Central America, Africa as well as Jamaica.

Workshops and roundtable discussions will focus on key agenda issues including crime and justice – partnerships for harmony and peace; economic growth and investment development – strengthening and broadening the base for entrepreneurship and wealth creation; education and culture – harnessing and supporting creativity and innovation for national development; youth and future leadership – sustaining affinity to Jamaica for this generation and beyond; and the role of the church and faith-based organizations in social cohesion for community development.

Emphasis is being placed on the need for representation from a wide cross-section of the Diaspora. In addition to persons of interest across the region, the selection of delegates will be drawn from alumni associations, professional bodies, charitable and community service organizations including sports, political and faith-based groups, academia and public service officials.

Persons interested in attending the Conference are encouraged to submit an Application of Participation. Applications can be obtained by e-mail request to info@marlonhill.com or jamconmi@bellsouth.net. Applications are to be submitted at the earliest convenience on or before Wednesday, May 7, 2008.

Special air fare rates (with Air Jamaica) and accommodations at local hotels Kingston are being offered to respective delegates.

For more information, please contact Jamaica Advisory Board member, Marlon Hill at 786-348-2584, info@marlonhill.com or the Consulate of Jamaica at 305-374-8431, jamconmi@bellsouth.net