Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to help save lives. Here’s your opportunity to make a real impact!
The National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC), in collaboration with the JN Foundation, will be hosting a blood drive at the Cornwall Regional Hospital in Montego Bay on Saturday, April 12, 2025. Join us in making a difference!
Motorcycle-related crashes account for some 30 per cent of all road fatalities, placing immense pressure on the healthcare system, which is already experiencing a low supply of blood. According to data from the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS), to function efficiently the NBTS requires 60,000 units of blood annually but collects only half of that amount each year.
Can’t make it to Montego Bay? You may also consider visiting any of the NBTS collection centres across the country.
Here are five compelling reasons to roll up your sleeve and donate:
1.You Can Save Lives
A single blood donation can save up to three lives. Blood is essential for accident victims, patients undergoing surgery, those battling cancer, and individuals with conditions like sickle cell anaemia. By donating blood, you provide a critical resource that hospitals and medical facilities need to treat patients effectively.
2. You Never Know When You or a Loved One Might Need it
Emergencies are unpredictable, and anyone can find themselves in need of a blood transfusion at some point. By donating blood regularly, you help maintain a stable blood supply, ensuring that it is available when needed for yourself, your family, or a friend.
3. It is a Quick and Simple Process
Donating blood typically takes about an hour, including registration, a brief health screening, and the donation itself. The actual blood draw lasts approximately 10 minutes. This short commitment can have a lasting impact on your or someone’s life.
4. It’s Healthy!
Donating blood offers health benefits to you, the donor. Regular blood donation (every three months) can help reduce harmful iron levels in the body, lowering the risk of heart disease. Additionally, you will receive a mini health check-up, which includes monitoring blood pressure, pulse, and haemoglobin levels which can help you stay informed about your overall health.
5. Blood Can’t be Manufactured
Despite medical advancements, there is no synthetic substitute for human blood. It must come from healthy donors who are willing to give. This makes every donation critical to ensuring that hospitals have a sufficient supply for those in need.
Giving blood is a small act with a significant impact. It’s safe and deeply rewarding. If you are eligible to donate, consider making it a habit. Your generosity could mean the difference between life and death for someone in need. Schedule your donation today and become a lifesaver!
Photo Caption: Rose Miller, Financial education consultant at the JN Foundation, and facilitator at the JN Financial Academy.
Jamaicans are being urged to adopt smart financial practices this Christmas to avoid accumulating debt and be in a better position to benefit from an improving economy.
Rose Miller, Financial education consultant at the JN Foundation, and facilitator at the JN Financial Academy, highlights the ongoing challenges of personal debt management in Jamaica, attributing them to poor financial habits.
“Jamaicans know the importance of saving, but this knowledge often doesn’t translate into better spending practices,” Mrs Miller explained.
To help Jamaicans manage their money this festive season to avoid financial strain, Mrs Miller shares five key tips for managing money wisely:
1. Invest Any Extra Income or Clear Existing Debts
Christmas sometimes brings extra income, such as bonuses. Instead of splurging, Mrs Miller advises channelling these funds into investments.
“Consider using the bonus to pay down existing debt,” she suggested. Alternatively, she recommends placing your bonus in a fixed or long-term savings account to earn higher interest, or explore stocks, mutual funds, and other financial instruments offered by regulated institutions.
2. Create and Stick to a Budget
“A specific budget for Christmas spending is essential,” Mrs Miller emphasised. Prioritise needs over wants and allocate funds only for necessary expenses and activities.
For those using credit cards, she warns against overspending:
“Remember, your credit card is a loan with high interest rates. Spend within your means and aim to settle the balance before the due date to avoid interest charges.” This will also ensure that you truly enjoy benefits such as cash-back rewards and no point-of-sale fees.
3. Be Creative with Gift Giving
Gift-giving doesn’t need to break the bank. Mrs Miller suggests tapping into personal creativity to craft unique, meaningful presents.
“Homemade gifts often cost less and hold greater sentimental value than store-bought items,” she noted. Additionally, opting for shared gifts for households can reduce costs and simplify shopping.
4. Share the Cost of Christmas Dinner
Hosting a holiday dinner should not mean shouldering all the expenses. Mrs Miller encourages families to adopt a collaborative approach.
“Ask guests to contribute by bringing their preferred drinks or specific dishes,” she proposed. “This spreads the cost and reduces your financial burden.”
5. Spend and Invest Wisely
Mrs Miller concludes with a reminder that thoughtful financial decisions can lead to a more enjoyable Christmas and a more financially stable New Year.
“By planning and prioritising, you can celebrate the season without the stress of mounting debt,” she said.
Photo Caption: Reverend Phillip Johnson (centre), daughter, Danielle Johnson (right0 and Sydoney Preddie, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation share a family vision board on how families can be strengthened at a JN Foundation Parent and Child Empowerment session held recently under the theme, “The Productive Family Unit; Serving Individual Ambitions.”
Family dynamics and mental health took centre stage at the JN Foundation’s Parent and Child Empowerment (PACE) seminar, as panellists offered advice on fostering unity and resilience within families.
The seminar was held recently, in observance of Parent Month, which was observed in November under the theme, ‘Serving Individual Ambitions: The Productive Family Unit’ and was held in the form of a panel discussion with father-and-daughter, Phillip and Danielle Johnson. The seminar was moderated by Sydoney Preddie, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation.
Photo Caption: Reverend Phillip Johnson (centre) gave insightful tips on how families can be strengthened at a JN Foundation Parent and Child Empowerment session held recently under the theme, “The Productive Family Unit; Serving Individual Ambitions.” Looking on are Sydoney Preddie, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation and Danielle Johnson who was a guest on the programme.
Reverend Phillip Johnson emphasised the importance of maintaining an open line of communication within the family. “Every family has conflicts,” he noted, “but having a space for roundtable discussions where everyone feelings are heard, can make a significant difference.” Such discussions, whether addressing serious matters or minor grievances, help to eliminate division and encourage productivity in the home, he noted.
Another highlight was the conversation on healthy competition versus unhealthy comparisons, especially within goal-orientated families. Panellist, Danielle Johnson shared her experience studying alongside her mother at university, describing it as more collaborative than competitive.
“At the end of the day,” she said, “I aim to be a better version of myself rather than compare myself to others.”
Reverend Johnson offered wisdom on safeguarding mental health amid life’s pressures and also highlighted the importance of each family member having alone time to rejuvenate and the need to support this activity as a family unit.
“Peace begins with the mind and extends to the home, the church, and the community,” he stated. He also pointed out the need for leaders and families to guard against external stress infiltrating their inner sanctum. Taking vacations, enjoying family meals, and maintaining a tranquil environment were highlighted as strategies for mental well-being.
From playful moments like family games nights during the pandemic, to adapting to societal changes such as social media use, the discussions underscored the importance of flexibility in navigating challenges. “Even in tough times,” Danielle Johnson said, “those shared moments of laughter and support bring us closer and keep us grounded.”
Photo Caption: Leesa Kow, managing director of JN Bank addresses the session.
Leesa Kow, managing director of JN Bank, who welcomed participants at the session, urged parents to consider how they could nurture their children’s ambitions, while children were encouraged to reflect on how they could uplift their parents and siblings.
“In each of our families, it is very important that we find out what our ambitions and aspirations are and work together as a team to ensure that no dream gets left behind,” she said. Drawing on Jamaican proverbs such as “One han’ cyah clap” and “No man is an island,” she reminded participants of the value of collaboration in achieving success.
Miss Kow said the JN Group, through its JN Foundation, underscored its commitment to empowering families as part of its People First strategic pillar. “Families are not only central to our communities but also to our success as an organisation,” she shared. “When families grow and thrive, we all succeed.”
She said this commitment to family support is reflected in JN Group’s decades-long investment in programmes that uplift families through education, community development, and social empowerment.
Earl Jarrett (right) chief executive officer (CEO), The Jamaica National Group, and Parris Lyew-Ayee (left), chairman of the JN Foundation, congratulate Najae Murray, the inaugural recipient of the historic Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, during a courtesy call on the CEO at the Group’s corporate office on August 22.
A scholarship named in honour of the late Oliver F Clarke, former Chairman of The Jamaica National Group, is now open for applications. Persons are being invited to apply for the 2025 Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke Scholarship, the first Chevening Partner Award to be established in Jamaica, made possible through a two-year Memorandum of Understanding between the British High Commission and The Jamaica National Group.
The prestigious, fully funded scholarship supports a Jamaican scholar pursuing a master’s degree at a university in the United Kingdom in key fields such as social justice, public administration, data analytics, information technology, actuarial science, mathematics, and education.
Interested persons can apply for the scholarship via the Chevening website, https://www.chevening.org, The Jamaica National Group website at www.jngroup.com, or the JN Foundation website at www.jnfoundation.com. The closing date for applications is November 3.
JN Group employees and their immediate family members are not eligible for the scholarship, however, they may apply for other scholarships awarded by Chevening via https://www.chevening.org.
The inaugural award was presented to Najae Murray, Director of Public Relations and Communication at the University Council of Jamaica in August. Mr Murray will be studying Education and International Development at the University College London.
During Mr Murray’s recent courtesy call, Chief Executive Officer of The Jamaica National Group, Earl Jarrett, juxtaposed Mr Clarke’s life and his areas of focus with the scholarship programme.
“Mr Clarke pursued his tertiary education in the UK. Similar to the requirement for the award recipient to return home to use the knowledge gained to help to build their home country, Mr Clarke also returned home after his period of study and contributed to the growth of Jamaica.”
“The Chevening programme is focused on helping to identify, train and foster future leaders, which is similar to what Mr Clarke did. He was a serial mentor through his mentorship of young Jamaicans who demonstrate leadership potential,” he added.
Mr Jarrett also related that Mr Clarke was an advocate for the people of Jamaica who used all his skills and access to improve the lives of people. He believed in education, good public policy and founded many organisations to promote public programmes.
Claudine Allen, General Manager, JN Foundation, pointed out that as part of the two-year partnership agreement, one scholarship will be awarded each year, enabling an exceptional Jamaican student to pursue academic excellence in the United Kingdom and acquire the skills and knowledge needed to drive transformation in Jamaica and beyond.
“By supporting exceptional Jamaican students through the Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke Scholarship, we are investing in future leaders who will bring innovative solutions and positive change to Jamaica and the wider region. This initiative not only honours the legacy of Mr Clarke, but also aligns with our mission to foster academic excellence and create opportunities for impactful global learning,” Ms Allen said.
“Mr Clarke dedicated his life to championing critical areas of Jamaica’s development, such as education and social justice and, for more than five decades, played a leading role in the growth of media and banking in the region,” she added.
A requirement of the Chevening/Oliver F Clarke scholarship, is that the award recipient must return to Jamaica to contribute their enhanced skills to the country’s development.
Photo Caption: Earl Jarrett (right) chief executive officer (CEO), The Jamaica National Group, and Parris Lyew-Ayee (left), chairman of the JN Foundation, congratulate Najae Murray, the inaugural recipient of the historic Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, during a courtesy call on the CEO at the Group’s corporate office on August 22.
Late last year when Najae Murray submitted his application for the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, he did so with little expectation, being fully aware of the intense competition associated with the award.
“I know of others who have attempted two and three times before getting through, so I was quite surprised that I had gotten through,” said Mr Murray, director of public relations and communication at the University Council of Jamaica (UCJ).
Against all odds, he emerged the recipient of the historic Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, the first Chevening partner award to be established in Jamaica. The fully funded scholarship is named in honour of the late Oliver F Clarke, former chairman of The Jamaica National Group and The Gleaner Company.
Mr Murray was selected from a pool of 17 applicants pursuing the specific course of study eligible for the Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship. Close to 300 applications for the scholarship awards were received locally for this academic year. He is one of 13 successful Chevening scholarship applicants from Jamaica who will be pursuing one-year master’s degrees in the United Kingdom.
During Mr Murray’s recent courtesy call on The Jamaica National Group, Chief Executive Officer of The Jamaica National Group, Earl Jarrett, juxtaposed Mr Clarke’s life and his areas of focus with the scholarship programme.
“Mr Clarke pursued his tertiary education in the UK. Similar to the requirement for the award recipient to return home to use the knowledge gained to help to build their home country, Mr Clarke also returned home after his period of study and contributed to the growth of Jamaica.”
“The Chevening programme is focused on helping to identify, train and foster future leaders, which is similar to what Mr Clarke did. He was a serial mentor through his mentorship of young Jamaicans who demonstrate leadership potential,” he added.
Mr Jarrett also pointed out that Mr Clarke was an advocate for the people of Jamaica who used all his skills and access to improve the lives of people. He believed in education, good public policy and founded many organisations to promote public programmes.
Like his benefactor, Mr Clarke, Mr Murray is a staunch advocate for higher education to create social and economic change.
Najae Murray, the recipient of the historic Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, the first Chevening partner award to be established in Jamaica, looks at a banner of Oliver F Clarke, former chairman of The Jamaica National Group and The Gleaner Company.
“My work at the UCJ has allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative power of education and training. This experience has fuelled my passion to delve deeper into the study of education and development, as I believe that quality education is the cornerstone of a nation’s progress,” said Mr Murray.
He has been committed to advancing educational opportunities and developing leadership skills of people to drive positive change in their careers, having also worked as an adjunct assistant lecturer at The University of the West Indies and as a public relations officer with e-Learning Jamaica Ltd.
“I believe that education and training are the cornerstones of individual empowerment and national development. They equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to contribute meaningfully to society. Accessibility to quality education and training ensures that every person, regardless of their background, can realise their fullest potential. This inclusivity not only promotes equity but also fosters a diverse and skilled workforce, which is essential for innovation and sustainable development,” he stressed.
“By embarking on this Chevening/Oliver F Clarke journey, my aim is to make education and training accessible to all, I would like to lay the foundation for a more prosperous and resilient nation, where progress is driven by the collective achievements of its people.”
Mr Murray is optimistic that his course of study will enrich his academic and professional journey while equipping him with the critical skills and knowledge needed to make a significant impact in the field of education.
“The programme includes modules such as ‘Education and International Development: Concepts, Theories and Issues’, which will enable me to analyse and address the myriad of challenges we are experiencing in our education systems as it overtly links education to international development,” he indicated.
He also emphasised that other modules in the programme such as “Planning for Education and Development” and “Higher Education: Comparative and International Perspectives” will be beneficial in helping him to provide greater support of the strategic planning efforts of the UCJ thus enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Jamaica’s higher education system.
“Upon returning to Jamaica, I hope to bring fresh insights to support the development of initiatives and partnerships that are in alignment with the UCJ’s mission, chief among which will be to identify opportunities for growth through innovative business strategies. My goal is to attract additional resources and partnerships to further the UCJ’s mission by repositioning the UCJ as not only a regulatory body but also as a thought leader in education,” he pointed out.
Najae Murray, (second right) shares the spotlight with from left: Tameka Wilson, friend; Radcliffe Blackwood, stepfather; Georgia Blackwood, mother; Parris Lyew-Ayee, chairman of the JN Foundation; and Arianna Blackwood, sister. The occasion was a courtesy call on the chief executive officer of The Jamaica National Group, Hon Earl Jarrett, at the Group’s corporate office on August 22.
A Ferncourt High alumnus who hails from Ocho Rios, St Ann, Mr Murray credits Arianna, his only sibling and best friend, a 13-year-old second form student at St Hildas High, as the source of his success.
“Though she is a little sister, she has always provided that inspiration that I must do good in the world to provide a world for her to be great in. She has always been that source of inspiration to continue to press on, to keep going. I was never born bright but she was, so I have to keep up,” he said with a chuckle. “She always pushed me to go further. The big shoes that I have to fill were given to me by her.”
Arianna is proud of her brother, whom she likened to a parent. Like the proverbial ‘peas in a pod’, they have always maintained an extraordinary relationship. “He is a very helpful and resourceful person. Even when he is busy, he makes time for me. He gives advice when you don’t know what to do.”
His mother, Georgia Blackwood, an insurance agent and business operator, and stepfather, Radcliffe Blackwood, a crane operator, are thrilled about his accomplishment.
“We are very ecstatic, we are so proud of him,” said Mrs Blackwood. “Najae is very deserving of the scholarship. He is hardworking, he is the person everyone comes to when they need help for schoolwork or advice. From Najae was a child, I knew he was special. I’ve never had an issue with discipline. He has always been a dedicated young man who knew what he wanted. It’s important as parents to stand behind our children and that’s what his stepfather and I did for him and he just blossomed.”
Since the inception of the Chevening Scholarship 40 years ago, 60,000 persons around the world, more than 315 of them Jamaicans, have benefitted.
Photo Caption: Najae Murray (right), the inaugural award recipient of the Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, shares a light moment with from left: Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Her Excellency, Judith Slater, British High Commissioner to Jamaica and Parris Lyew-Ayee, Chairman of the JN Foundation. Occasion was the Chevening scholarship reception held at the British High Commission Kingston on August 22 to present this year’s cohort of Chevening scholars.
The British High Commission in Jamaica and The Jamaica National Group marked a historic milestone with the award of a Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke scholarship, the first Chevening partner award to be established in Jamaica. The fully funded scholarship, named in honour of the late Oliver F Clarke, former chairman of the JN Group and The Gleaner Company, was awarded to Najae Murray, director of public relations and communication at the University Council of Jamaica.
The announcement was made at the British High Commission Kingston on August 22, during a Chevening Scholarship reception to present this year’s cohort of 13 scholars who will be pursuing one-year master’s degrees in the United Kingdom.
Mr Murray, who will be studying Education and International Development at the University College London, is pleased to be selected the inaugural recipient of the scholarship.
“It is an honour I take with great pride to be able to look up to Oliver F Clarke and to know that his legacy will be able to live on through me and the work I would be able to do being granted this opportunity. I will ever be grateful, and I hope to do my best to contribute to Jamaica when I get back,” he said.
Parris Lyew-Ayee, chairman of the JN Foundation, pointed out that the two-year Memorandum of Understanding with the British High Commission will provide one scholarship each year to support an outstanding Jamaican scholar to pursue academic excellence in the United Kingdom and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to drive transformation in Jamaica and beyond.
“For the past four decades, Chevening scholarships have been synonymous with fostering future leaders who possess the passion, intellect and determination to effect positive change. These scholarships have provided exceptional Jamaicans with the opportunity to expand their horizons, deepen their expertise, and return to Jamaica equipped to contribute to their country.”
“The Chevening/JN Oliver F Clarke Scholarship will continue this tradition, focusing on areas critical to Jamaica’s development, including social justice, public administration, data analytics, information technology, and education. These areas align closely with the interests and legacy of Oliver F Clarke, who championed education and social justice throughout his career,” the chairman explained.
Her Excellency, Judith Slater, British High Commissioner to Jamaica, commended the JN Foundation for its initiative in co-founding the scholarship award.
“We hope that JN’s trailblazing move to partner with us in this scholarship, will inspire more Jamaican companies to partner with Chevening,” she stressed.
“Chevening remains the British government’s flagship scholarship programme for nurturing global leaders and enabling them to flourish academically, professionally and also culturally.”
Close to 300 applications for the scholarship awards were received locally.
Ambassador Slator, who likened the competitive scholarship award selection to the track and field trials for the Olympics, pointed out that since the inception of the Chevening Scholarship 40 years ago, 60,000 persons around the world, more than 315 of them Jamaicans, have benefitted. As a requirement, the scholarship recipients must return to their home country to contribute their enhanced skills to its development.
Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, pointed out that the government is looking forward to working with the scholars on their return to leverage the knowledge, experience and expanded opportunities that they will bring back to Jamaica in order to achieve national development goals.
“Each year, Cheveners are given access to some of the finest tertiary institutions across the UK which provide education grounded in the newest trends, cutting-edge technologies, thought leadership, technologies and methodologies that are not yet here in Jamaica,” she related.
In addressing the scholarship recipients, Mr Lyew-Ayee emphasised the associated responsibilities of their scholarship award.
“Build and maintain a network of people who can support your vision and your efforts to build your community and country. These are not only people who can provide you with opportunities, but people who you can rely on to sharpen your perspectives and strengthen your cause.”
“This scholarship is a gift, and with it comes the responsibility to support others. Whether through mentorship, community service, or leadership, or any other altruistic means, use your talents and resources to uplift others. Your success is intertwined with the wellbeing of your community. As you rise, bring others with you,” he encouraged them.
This year’s cohort include Leneka Rhoden, Janielle McKoy, Nathanael Amore, Renee McDonald, Shantal Artwell, Oluwatomilayo Edokpa, Tajay Grant, Sayeed Bernard, Najae Murray, Jomarie Malcolm Gordon, Anthony McKenzie, Toni-Ann Taylor and Sonya Murray. They will be pursuing diverse fields of study to include energy and climate change, sports biomechanics, data science and analytics, education and international development, law regulation compliance, brand management, technology and telecommunications.
Photo Caption: Lanisia Rhoden (right), chief executive officer and founder of Link Your Purpose and her team members (from left to right) Hannajoye Gilling, digital marketer; Anni-Vee Moore, administrative coordinator; Horace Palmer, finance officer; Toni-Ann Williams, programme coordinator.
The programme significantly impacted the entrepreneurial landscape by helping grant-funded operations transform into profitable businesses with sustainable social missions.
Over its duration, SEBI supported more than 60 social enterprises, which collectively generated over $166 million in revenue, created more than 200 jobs, and served over 10,000 beneficiaries, including marginalised groups such as women, rural communities, youth, and the disabled.
Remarkably, five years after the programme ended in 2019, several social enterprises that benefitted, including Link Your Purpose, continue to thrive and make a lasting impact. Link Your Purpose, a social enterprise focused on online career development, has seen significant growth and impact.
According to Lanisia Rhoden, chief executive officer of Link Your Purpose, SEBI provided essential resources that allowed the organisation to refine its prototypes into marketable products, accelerating their mission to empower young people across the island.
“SEBI was pivotal in our development,” said Miss Rhoden. “The programme enabled us to transform our initial prototype into a fully functional platform, ready for market launch. This support was key to our growth.”
Since participating in SEBI, Link Your Purpose has secured additional grants, facilitating its expansion throughout Jamaica. The organisation’s parent non-profit, Young Women and Men of Purpose, has also launched a new social enterprise: ’Clear Purpose Spring Water’. This product, branded with the tagline “drink purposefully,” directs proceeds from each sale back into the organisation, reflecting the principles of social enterprise by balancing profit, people, and the planet.
She pointed out that the social good the enterprise focused on is ensuring persons have access to clean potable water.
“The impact of SEBI on Link Your Purpose is evident in its operational growth. The organisation has expanded from one part-time employee and numerous volunteers to an operations team of seven, including four paid staff and three volunteers. Additionally, the overall volunteer base has grown to nearly 60 individuals,” Miss Rhoden disclosed.
Looking ahead, the CEO said that Link Your Purpose aims to sustain and scale its impact. Over the next five years, the organisation plans to expand its operations beyond Jamaica to the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, leveraging the international makeup of its team and the need for similar programmes in these regions. The organisation is also exploring potential expansion into other Caribbean islands.
“Our focus is on sustainable impact,” Miss Rhoden explained. “While we will continue to seek partnerships and funding, our goal is to operate in a way that ensures we can survive without solely relying on grants.”
The organisation’s commitment to social enterprise principles driven by mission, revenue generation, and community development has been solidified through its journey with SEBI.
“The initiative [SEBI] provided not only technical resources but also a valuable network of social entrepreneurs and stakeholders, enhancing Link Your Purpose’s ability to implement and scale its projects,” she said, citing the benefits of being part of the programme.
For the founder, the transition to social enterprise has been transformative. With over 16 years of experience in non-profit work, she said SEBI opened new pathways for sustainable community impact, enabling full-time dedication to their mission without solely depending on volunteer efforts.
“The Social Enterprise Boost Initiative has impacted not just our organisation but also my life as an individual,” the founder shared. “The connections and practical knowledge gained have been invaluable in driving our success.”
Miss Rhoden is confident that Link Your Purpose will continue to thrive, proving that with the right support and resources, social enterprises can achieve sustainable impact and growth.
Other enterprises that have benefitted from the SEBI programme have included Def Can! Coffee, Bresheh, Edufocal Limited, EduTours JA, 360 Recycle, JAD Binders, Bunkers Hill Cultural Xperience, Alpha Wear, PSD Mobility Centre and NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Service.
Students who were successful in the 2024 Grade 6 Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations are being invited to apply for the opportunity to receive one of 17 five-year scholarships or 10 one-time grants from the JN Foundation Scholarship Programme.
Fourteen awardees are to be selected for the JN Foundation PEP Parish Scholarship, three are to be selected for the JN Bank Easi-Save County Scholarship and 10 are to receive one-time grants from JN Money. An additional 20 scholarships are also awarded to the children of employees of The Jamaica National Group.
Parents are invited to review the criteria and apply for the scholarships and grant via the JN Foundation’s website https://www.jnfoundation.com/jn-scholarships/. The application deadline is Monday, July 15.
Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, Lead, Youth and Education at the JN Foundation, noted that the organisation, which has an over 40-year tradition of awarding grade 6 students who are successful in their primary level exit examinations, continues to provide academic and personal support to both the scholars and their families.
“We are delighted to again open applications for these scholarships and grants which have been made possible through the member companies of The Jamaica National Group,” she said.
She further noted, “the JN Scholarship Programme supports the education of JN members’ children, aiming to advance their academic and personal development through engaging activities. JN Scholars benefit from opportunities such as an annual summer camp with local and international speakers, events with JN Group leaders, and sessions on financial literacy, goal setting, stress management, and habits for high school success. A mentorship programme will launch in the new academic year, further enhancing support for students.”
To be eligible for the scholarships, students must have completed the 2024 Primary Exit Profile and should not be a recipient of a government scholarship or other long-term scholarships. The student, a parent or legal guardian must have a relationship with a JN Group company for at least one year – either as a member/customer/client of JN Bank, JN Fund Managers, JN Life Insurance, JN General Insurance, JN Bank (Small Business Loans Division), Jamaica Automobile Association or JN Money Services.
Mrs Wright Vaughn said that the JN Group is proud to support the education of Jamaica’s youth as it aims to change lives and build communities.
Photo Caption: Claudine Allen, General Manager, JN Foundation
A distinguished panel of experts will explore issues related to climate change and entrepreneurship at the upcoming 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, which will be held from June 16 to 19 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James.
The 45-minute panel discussion, which is scheduled for June 17, will underscore critical areas of concern and identify where innovative solutions are most urgently needed.
The session, which will be delivered face-to-face, is set to explore diverse opportunities for accessing business support and product development services, leveraging the latest in technology and scientific innovation. Participants will also gain insight from a climate-conscious entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the journey to become a green entrepreneur.
The session will be moderated by Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation, along with a roster of esteemed professionals including Professor Dale Webber, director of the Centre for Marine Sciences at The University of the West Indies, Mona, who brings extensive knowledge on marine ecosystems and their vulnerability to climate change.
Professor Dale Webber, Director of the Centre for Marine Sciences at The University of the West Indies, MonaCarlinton Burrell, Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Climate Innovation CentreDavid Wan, Acting Managing Director of the Development Bank of Jamaica
Carlinton Burrell, chief executive officer of the Caribbean Climate Innovation Centre, will share strategies for fostering innovation in response to climate challenges in the Caribbean region. Dr Charah Watson, executive director of the Scientific Research Council, will provide insights into the latest scientific advancements and their applications in mitigating climate impacts.
Other panellists are David Wan, acting managing director of the Development Bank of Jamaica, who will discuss DBJ’s accreditation with the Green Climate Fund and support mechanisms available for green initiatives, and Jonathan Hernould, chief executive officer of Reef Construction Limited, who will showcase a practical business built on helping Jamaica’s shorelines to recover from the impact of climate change.
Other panellists are David Wan, acting managing director of the Development Bank of Jamaica, who will discuss DBJ’s accreditation with the Green Climate Fund and support mechanisms available for green initiatives, and Jonathan Hernould, chief executive officer of Reef Construction Limited, who will showcase a practical business built on helping Jamaica’s shorelines to recover from the impact of climate change.
Ms Allen said the session promises to be a cornerstone of the conference, equipping delegates with the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful change in their respective fields and communities.
“Jamaica boasts strong support for people who want to take action to build sustainability and resilience into their businesses. The panel provides practical information that will show members of the Diaspora how to achieve their investment or business objectives while contributing to Jamaica’s climate resilience,” she said.
Omar Wright, Lead, Environment & Community Development at the JN Foundation, said a concerted effort needs to be made for a balance between sustainable water management and socio-economic development for the nation’s future resilience.
He warned that without immediate action, Jamaica’s precious natural resources and ecosystems are at risk of irreversible damage, threatening both environmental stability and socio-economic well-being.
“We [the JN Foundation] had a water summit in 2021, and we called on the Government of Jamaica to set a minimum standard, to ensure that every housing development is outfitted with water efficient features and fittings. We are still calling and advocating for this,” he pointed out.
Mr. Wright made the appeal recently while addressing the Rotary Club of Trafalgar New Heights meeting. His presentation was entitled ‘Navigating the waters: the intersection of water management and environmental conservation’.
At the forefront of this call, Mr Wright said there is a pressing need for collaboration among all stakeholders. Recognising the interconnectedness of water resources with all aspects of life, persons are urged to set aside differences and work towards a common goal: safeguarding Jamaica’s water for generations to come.
“It is important that the government, policymakers, businesses, and communities work together for a resilient future,” he said. “If we don’t manage our water resources carefully, we will see the side of humanity that will be plunged into [water] war,” he said.
Jamaica, like many other nations, is grappling with the repercussions of climate change, population growth and unsustainable practices that strain its water resources. From diminishing water supplies to degraded ecosystems, the signs of stress are evident. However, amidst these challenges, Mr Wright said there is an opportunity for transformation.
“We have to ensure that we are managing the water resources in such a way that future generations will have access to water, and we can indeed be the land of wood and water,” he said.
Mr Wright urged members of the Rotary Club of Trafalgar New Heights to advocate for water conservation initiatives. “Lend your voice and support to entities, institutions, and initiatives that are pushing for conservation of the environment. Find something that you are passionate about in the environmental sphere and lend your support,” he said.
He also encouraged businesses to adopt water-efficient technologies and practices, not only as a means of reducing operational costs, but as a commitment to corporate social responsibility. Mr Wright said communities are also encouraged to embrace water-saving habits and participate in local conservation efforts, recognising their role as custodians of Jamaica’s water resources.
