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A decade-long journey of personal struggle and scientific innovation has culminated in the establishment of a thriving business, Kihara Cosmetics. The company, founded by a determined entrepreneur, Dr Charah T. Watson, who is also executive director of the Scientific Research Council, has grown from humble beginnings into a successful enterprise, boasting over 20 unique products.

Dr Watson shared her entrepreneurial journey during a summer camp organised by the JN Financial Academy for 12 to 17 year-olds under the theme ‘Building the Future Entrepreneur’.

She informed that her entrepreneurial journey started while in graduate school, where she formulated and developed products to address her own hair and acne issues. This led to the inception of Kihara Cosmetics.

“My journey began with a desire to solve a personal problem,” she explained. “I suffered from severe dandruff and tried countless products, but none worked for my hair type and lifestyle. This motivated me to use my knowledge and research skills to develop something effective,” she said.

In 2010, she embarked on a quest to formulate a product that would address her dandruff issues without the drawbacks of existing solutions. Six years later, a breakthrough came unexpectedly.

“While getting my hair done, my hairdresser noticed a significant improvement in my scalp health. That’s when I realised I had created a successful formulation,” she said in awe at the summer camp.

This discovery led to the creation of Kihara Cosmetics’ flagship product, the Hair and Scalp Treatment Oil. The company has since expanded its product line, maintaining a commitment to developing products that are practical, affordable and effective, catering to diverse hair types and lifestyles.

Following her graduation, she continued to build her business despite challenges such as a lack of start-up capital and limited access to loans. Her aspiration to be a scientist led her to take a job as a research scientist, eventually being promoted to technical director at Bio-Tech R&D Limited working with renowned business leader and scientist, Dr. Henry Lowe.

During her tenure, she led the research and development portfolios at the company and commercialized several nutraceutical and cosmeceutical products. She also contributed to the launch of Medicanja, a medical cannabis company, applying her expertise in formulation and product development.

Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavours, Dr Watson emphasised the importance of balancing professional success with personal fulfillment. As a mother of four, a business owner and the head of a scientific institution, she advocates for a holistic approach to life.

“You do not have to sacrifice personal fulfilment for professional growth. It takes commitment, tenacity, focus, and self-belief to achieve a balanced, fulfilling life,” she told the participants in the summer camp.

She highlighted that her story is a testament to innovation driven by personal need and professional expertise.

“It serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that even small tweaks to solve everyday problems can lead to significant breakthroughs and success,” she said.

Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation, said the summer camp accomplished its intentions and Dr Watson’s story and other presenters were able to convey vital information to participants.

“We are pleased that the summer camp met its objectives. The participants were inspired by the presentations, which included entrepreneurs and financial literacy professionals. The participants gained valuable skills and knowledge from all our presenters and insightful takeaways about being entrepreneurs,” she said.

JN Scholar, Johanna Simpson was one of the participants who was most impressed by the presentation from Dr. Watson and thanked her for such an inspiring story, noting how impactful it was on her. Other participants shared that they are motivated to pursue their dreams because of Dr Watson’s story.

The JN Financial Academy summer camp provided a comprehensive understanding of the micro-to-medium business landscape, along with practical advice on implementing and scaling business ideas.

The camp’s curriculum was designed to inspire and educate young entrepreneurs, giving them the tools to become innovators and leaders in their communities. Through interactive sessions and panel discussions with outstanding entrepreneurs and industry experts, participants gained valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship with a unique focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), real estate management, social enterprise and digital media.

Photo Caption: Participants from last year summer camp take a group photo with JN Foundation representatives , Dawnette Pryce-Thompson (fifth, standing from left) and Rose Miller (fourth, standing at right) as they toured the Bank of Jamaica Money Museum as part of the field trip organised by the JN Foundation.

According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2021-2022 National Report for Jamaica, entrepreneurship is an essential driver of societal health and wealth and is also a formidable engine of economic growth. It is with this in mind that the JN Financial Academy will be hosting a two-day virtual summer camp from July 30 to 31 under the theme ‘Building the Future Entrepreneur’.

Now in its third year, Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation said the summer camp is set to combine essential financial literacy with the transformative power of entrepreneurship and is geared at stimulating the entrepreneurial spirits of young persons.

She said this year’s summer camp targeting 12-17 year-old participants, will provide a comprehensive understanding of the micro-to-medium business landscape, along with practical advice on implementing and scaling business ideas.

Mrs. Vaughn added that the camp’s curriculum is designed to inspire and educate young entrepreneurs, giving them the tools to become innovators and leaders in their communities. She said through interactive sessions and panel discussions with outstanding entrepreneurs and industry experts, participants will gain valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship with a unique focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), real estate management, social enterprise and digital media.

“Participants will learn the fundamentals of financial literacy, enabling them to manage their finances effectively and make informed decisions as they venture into entrepreneurship,” she explained.

There will be two keynote sessions focusing on the importance of STEM and entrepreneurship, to be presented by Dr Charah Watson, executive director of the Scientific Research Council of Jamaica and embracing culture as a social enterprise to be shared by Randy McLaren, chief executive officer and co-Founder of Bresheh.

Carlyle Grant, managing director of Digital Danes, and Keleisha Carter, US-based real estate investor and capital raiser, both past ambassadors from the JN Group-led tertiary initiative, JN Wise Aspiring Youth Programme (JNWAY), will participate in a panel discussion focused on the importance of networking and entrepreneurship.

There will also be presentations from the Companies Office of Jamaica, Junior Achievement Jamaica and the JN Bank (Small Business Loans Division).

“The JN Financial Academy Summer Camp is committed to fostering this spirit of innovation and economic growth in Jamaica. By empowering young entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills they need, the camp aims to contribute to the country’s development and prosperity,” said Mrs. Wright Vaughn.

She informed that the JN Financial Academy aims to empower JN members and potential members to achieve financial freedom by providing information, training, and mentorship to help them make better financial decisions.

“This opportunity to engage high school students about entrepreneurship also highlights a key point from the GEM report as the summer camp aims to promote the essential innovation required not only to exploit new opportunities, promote productivity, and create employment, but also to address some of society’s greatest challenges,” she said.

Interested persons are invited to register for the summer camp by visiting the JN Foundation website, www.jnfoundation.com or social media channels @jnfoundation.

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.

In 2013, the Social Enterprise Boost Initiative (SEBI), a project of the JN Foundation and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was launched with the aim of fostering a supportive environment for social enterprises in Jamaica.

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 10^th 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.

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.

To register for the conference, persons should visit https://diasporaconferenceja.eventbrite.com.  

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.

Photo Caption: Rose Miller, Manager for Strategic Empowerment Programmes at JN Foundation

Advancements with electronic transaction channels have transformed the banking industry and have led to more secure and enhanced customer experiences. The ATM in particular, which has become one of the more popular customer access channels, continues to drive economic growth by increasing access to financial services and when used efficiently, it can help people save time and money.

Rose Miller, Manager for Strategic Empowerment Programmes at JN Foundation said depending on how people bank and what they need cash for, there are ways to use the automated channels to minimise or avoid bank fees and maximise security, while doing business. ATMs are providing valuable services to bank customers, and by employing the right strategy, customers can ensure that convenience isn’t costly.

1. Stay in-network. If you use an out-of-network ATM, you may be hit with a surcharge from the bank that owns that ATM, as well as a fee from your bank for using an ATM not in its network. It’s better to stick to in-network ATMs to avoid these costs and depending on your bank, you can also benefit from some fee-free withdrawals in-network.

• Withdraw larger sums less frequently. You save by making fewer withdrawals at the ATM, especially if you are charged a fee each time you use one. If you anticipate needing cash for multiple reasons, consider taking out larger sums of cash in a single ATM visit to prepare for those reasons in advance, but keep in mind your security and your bank’s withdrawal limits.

• Use smart ATMs for certain transactions. Depending on your bank, you can save valuable time and money by taking advantage of the advanced functionalities and convenience of smart ATMs. At some smart ATMs people can conduct several transactions including the payment of loans and with some in branch activities requiring teller fees, using the smart ATM can help you avoid the added costs, while also reducing wait times.

• Find a bank that supports international ATMs. If you’re an international traveller, it pays to shop around for a bank account that doesn’t charge exorbitant foreign transaction fees for debit card withdrawals no matter where you go. A foreign currency account at your local bank is also a good option as this makes it easier for you to conduct transactions without the worry of converting cash for an added cost on your transaction.

• Consider using digital payment solutions. Before running to the ATM, find out if cards or digital wallets are accepted at the place you are trying to conduct business. Today, businesses and vendors offer multiple options for payment, with some of those options being free. Some banks also have mobile apps that allow you to conduct transfers, check your balances and make payments at no extra cost.

• Take advantage of online banking. Certain transactions can also be facilitated through online banking and these platforms are usually free and offer even more convenience to customers. This is a great way to maximise your time and save money as online banking eliminates the cost of going from place to place to transact business.

Photo Caption: Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation presents the 2023 PEP awardee from St Andrew, Mason Smith, with a certificate during the JN Foundation’s PEP Scholarship Awards held at the Summit in New Kingston on November 12, 2023.

Parents can sometimes influence the career selection process of their children. If you ask a doctor or a lawyer today why they chose that career, many may say they wanted to follow in a parent’s footsteps or that a parent encouraged them to pursue it because others in the family chose that career.

Mason Smith, the 2023 JN Foundation PEP awardee for St Andrew, is, however, choosing his own career path, although both his parents are physicians.

“Whatever he wants to do is fine with us, as long as he does his absolute best,” his father Dr Shaun Smith shared.

Mason, a Mona Preparatory alumnus, and current ‘Campionite’, said although he hasn’t ruled out medicine for his future, he’s interested in pursuing a career in computer engineering.

“I’ve been liking IT (information technology) so far, and I just like computers,” he shared.

But although he is making his own decisions about his career freely, his mother’s love for her alma mater may have influenced his high school of choice.

“I felt great passing for Campion because my mom went there. It has been good so far. I’m in the Math and Tennis clubs and I’m thinking of joining other clubs in second form,” he shared.

Mason, who also likes maths, gaming, drumming, tennis, and Kung Fu, has always been a high achiever. His mother, Dr Danielle Keene-Smith said while he has several interests, he has always kept focused on his studies, and so there were no surprises with his PEP results.

“He has always done very well and is very self-motivated. We can see that he feels some happiness when he gets that success, and he knows what he has to put in to get there. He’s always done his work and his teachers always love him,” she added.

Mason’s father said he was also happy about his son’s PEP results as he had worked extremely hard especially over the last two years. “There were several nights we stayed up to midnight preparing so it was really a good feeling to know that he was able to put in the work and achieve his dream,” he said.

Mason’s high achievement also presented him with the opportunity for a five-year scholarship from the JN Foundation, for which Mason and his parents say they are grateful.

“We could not have been more pleased. We weren’t even expecting it and were absolutely overjoyed when we heard that,” Mason’s mother said.

“It’s a great feeling knowing Mason has been recognised for the hard work that he has put in and JN Foundation has been doing an excellent job in recognising these students and assisting with their career paths,” his father added.

And Mason will be working to get other scholarships to help him advance his career goals.

“I want to get another scholarship to get into university and get a degree. That’s my goal. Honestly, I love having fun, but I’m also focused on school because I know that it will take some hard work and dedication to be successful,” he shared.

An only child, Mason’s mother said she is looking forward to him continuing to grow and develop.

“He’s the apple of our eyes and we’re just so proud of him and the young man that he is becoming.”

His father also promised that they will continue to support Mason as best as they can and on whichever road he chooses for success.

“He is an absolute blessing to us, and we just cherish every moment that we have him around. Believe it or not he actually motivates us from time to time just to see how dedicated he is and it reassures us that we are doing a good job.”

Photo Caption: Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, Lead – Youth and Education Programmes at the JN Foundation

Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, Lead – Youth and Education Programmes at the JN Foundation says continuous learning can serve as a catalyst for financial growth and empowerment. Devoting just 10 minutes per day to educate oneself on personal finance topics, she advises, could yield substantial dividends in knowledge accumulation and one’s financial freedom.  

“Seeking guidance from reputable financial professionals or sources enhances financial literacy and equips individuals with the tools needed to navigate complex financial landscapes effectively,” she informed.

Mrs Wright Vaughn’s advice comes as the world observes the month of April as Financial Literacy Month.

Some of these educational resources she said include financial and money coaches across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Some require payment for direct coaching, but most share a great amount of valuable insights at no cost, she informed.

Other sources include financial blogs and financial news in newspapers, on radio/tv (local & international).

She says incorporating education along with other strategic activities into one’s daily financial routine, can empower people to take control of their financial destinies.

Mastering Budgeting

“By embracing prudent budgeting, diligent saving, savvy spending, responsible debt management, and continuous learning, individuals can pave the way towards long-term financial success and security,” she said.

Mrs Wright Vaughn said budgeting is the cornerstone of effective financial planning. By meticulously tracking income and expenses, she said, individuals gain a clear understanding of their financial standing.

Prioritising Savings

“Allocating specific amounts for necessities, savings, and flexible spending categories helps maintain financial discipline. Leveraging budgeting tools or apps further streamlines the process, ensuring organisation and efficiency,” she explained.

The JN Foundation lead on youth and education programmes said that saving then takes centre stage in securing a stable financial future. She said by establishing both short-term and long-term savings goals, this cultivates financial discipline and resilience.

She recommended automating savings through recurring transfers to separate accounts, which she says will facilitate consistency and eliminate the temptation to spend impulsively. Prioritising savings before allocating funds for flexible expenses reinforces the importance of financial security, she informed.

Smart Spending

“Smart spending practices play a pivotal role in maximising financial resources. Distinguishing between needs and wants enables individuals to make informed purchasing decisions. By actively seeking out the best deals and discounts, individuals can stretch their dollars further,” she advised.

Moving on to spending, Mrs Wright Vaughn said that implementing a waiting period before making non-essential purchases mitigates impulse buying tendencies and promotes mindful spending habits.

Managing Debt

And finally, to manage debt persons should consider developing a repayment plan prioritising high-interest debts. This facilitates progress towards financial freedom, she said.

“Exploring options such as debt consolidation or negotiating lower interest rates with creditors can expedite debt repayment. Adhering to responsible credit usage practices and refraining from accruing new debt unnecessarily are fundamental principles in achieving financial stability,” she recommended.