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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.

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.