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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.

Post Caption: Carleigh Franklin (right), grand prize winner of a trip for two to Jamaica in the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (UJAA) essay competition, views a pictorial book highlighting life in Jamaica during a courtesy call on Rose Miller (left) Manager, Strategic Empowerment Programmes, and Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, Lead, Youth & Education Programmes, at the JN Foundation New Kingston office on March 19.

Winning Moment

Carleigh Franklin was beside herself when her name was called as the grand prize winner of a trip for two to Jamaica in the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (UJAA) essay competition, last year, while a student at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta.

She had awoken just five minutes before the start of the virtual ceremony and joined with little expectation of winning a prize.

“The person reading out the awards went down the list of names and I didn’t hear my name. Then, they got to the top spot and my name was read out. I was obviously in shock. My mom was sitting across from me at the dinner table, and we started jumping,” said Carleigh during a courtesy call at the JN Foundation with Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, Lead, Youth & Education Programmes and Rose Miller, Manager, Strategic Empowerment Programmes, at the JN Foundation New Kingston office on March 19.

A Reluctant Participant

The 19-year-old disclosed that she was hesitant to enter the competition but eventually did with encouragement from her mother, Prudence Franklin.

“It was my senior summer. I had just graduated; I had just written all my college essays,” she pointed out, explaining that she wanted the time to rest.  “My mom persuaded me to do one more essay. She had so much faith in my writing.”

Although Carleigh enjoys journalling and often received commendations from her English teachers for her writing, she had never previously considered entering an essay competition.

“I’ve never seen myself as a competitive writer,” she said.

Carleigh, now a freshman at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, was accompanied by her mother and brother, Robert, on the trip.

About the Competition

Now in its 34th year, the annual UJAA High School Graduate Awards and Essay Competition is open to all US High School Seniors of Jamaican heritage.  The UJAA is a non-profit umbrella organisation for more than 60 alumni associations of Jamaican schools and other educational institutions.

The competition seeks to stimulate students to share their perspectives and personal experiences with different cultures. The prize trip to Jamaica aims to provide an opportunity for the winner to gain deeper insights into Jamaican life and culture.

In her essay entitled “The Best of Both Worlds,” Carleigh conveyed the diverse mix of her cultural background and how it influences her outlook on life.

“The intersections of my distinct backgrounds have created my unique cultural identity and have awarded me with a metaphorical view of my life. If each of my cultural backgrounds could be represented by the circles of a Venn diagram, the best of both worlds would exist within the intersection; the collision of two distinct rich cultures intertwining to make me,” she wrote.

“The strong unwavering spirit of Jamaica is built upon a rich history and powerful leaders, and knowledge of this heritage is the greatest tool I possess for guiding my future for  generations to come,” she expressed.

As the first generation of African-Americans in her family, Carleigh pointed out that her unique identity has allowed her and other Jamaican Americans like her to continue bridging the cultural dissonance existing between black immigrants and African Americans.

Empowering Through Education and Cultural Exchange

The Jamaica National Group and by extension, the JN Foundation, which places a high premium on youth, education, and the Diaspora, has been a supporter of the UJAA for many years, providing the winner with the opportunity to meet with members of the Jamaican team and to be exposed to the business sector in Jamaica.

Mrs Miller is proud of Carleigh’s accomplishments.

“She embodies the transformative power of education and cultural exchange. Her story reaffirms the importance of fostering connections within the Jamaican Diaspora and beyond. Carleigh’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of these initiatives, showcasing how education and cultural exchange can truly transform lives,” she related.

“Through dedicated efforts in youth engagement, financial empowerment, and community development, we, at the JN Foundation, are committed to fostering positive change and facilitating opportunities for growth. We are inspired by Carleigh’s journey and remain steadfast in our mission to empower young minds to reach their fullest potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

Although it was Carleigh’s sixth or seventh visit to the island, it was her first time visiting Kingston. She said she was thrilled to meet members of her maternal family for the first time who are living in Kingston.

“My life has changed. I’ve met so many family members. It’s so very emotional for me.”

Carleigh is currently studying Biology to pursue a career in medicine and healthcare. She hopes to bring transformation to healthcare services in the United States.

“With my communication skills I hope to bridge the gap between the healthcare system and patients of all backgrounds,” she said.

Rose Miller, manager of strategic empowerment programme at the JN Foundation, underscores the importance for persons to carefully manage their finances, at all times and in all seasons of live but particularly during retirement.

This she said especially because income is oftentimes reduced and pensioners still face high inflation, the constant upward movement in the price of food, medication and other goods and services.

Effective Expense Management

Mrs Miller stressed the importance of budgeting during this season of life to avoid over expenditure and even waste.

“As a pensioner, not only are you faced with reduced income and price increases, but additionally, many seniors must also factor in significant cost for healthcare and as you age, the cost of long-term care and assistance if and when you are no longer able to manage on your own.  Coupled with the fact that people are living longer in retirement, prudent financial management is crucial to avoid pensioners outliving their retirement savings,” she explained.

Tracking all expenses is one way to ensure that money is not spent on unnecessary purchases. Mrs Miller informed that for those seniors not averse to technology, using a budgeting app would be beneficial. With aggressive tracking of expenses and making some other spending adjustments, the savings can be great, she advised.

There are many free online budgeting tools, ranging from budgeting apps to spreadsheets, which can help seniors keep an eye on, and track their expenses.

Thrifty Spending Tips

“I would recommend frugal spending as much as possible, shopping where they can get the best prices, taking advantage of rewards and utilising substitutes wherever possible instead of the higher priced products are ways in which you can make the dollar stretch,” she indicated.

Mrs Miller said seniors should also be assertive, taking advantage of available discounts as well as those for which they qualify. Noting that sometimes seniors may be asked to prove their eligibility, pensioners should be prepared with the appropriate documents; proof of age or government-issued identification would be sufficient.   She also recommended teaming up with close friends or family members to purchase groceries in bulk.

Maximising Income Opportunities

To supplement their income, seniors should explore the option of monetising their skills or hobbies, Mrs Miller advised.

“If you have a skill or hobby that you can monetise, you should do that. For example, if you are a teacher, you can offer tutoring services during your retirement. There is also the option to acquire a new skill that can bring in income, and that should be explored.” she said.

Another avenue which could be pursued is property rental which would generate income.  Mrs Miller informed that seniors who have a large home could downsize and convert a section of the property to provide rental income.

She noted that owning a large home may not make sense. For some the option of selling their current home and purchasing a smaller house or condo might be more practical and attractive. This will reduce many expenses associated with the care and maintenance of the property and even security in some cases.

The manager of strategic empowerment programmes suggested that seniors also start a backyard garden where they can cultivate vegetables or general cash crops which could  generate income, but at the very least, reduce or eliminate purchases of these items. “Vegetables such as callaloo, peppers, and tomatoes are among crops easily cultivated and they mature in a short period of time. The produce from gardening can help to offset buying them at the market and any surplus can be sold.  Gardening will not only keep seniors busy, reducing boredom, but has the added advantage of providing them with the exercise they need to keep fit , warding off or helping to manage some lifestyle diseases,” she explained.

Fifteen social impact projects to be undertaken by 11 JN Circle Chapters across the country have each received a grant of up to $1.5 million from the JN Foundation.

JN Circle Ocho Rios, Port Maria and Gayle received grants for a total of four projects; while Westmoreland, Spanish Town, and Morant Bay received grants for two projects each, and Mandeville, Junction, Lucea and Santa Cruz were each awarded grants for single initiatives. 

Claudine Allen, general manager, JN Foundation, explained that the projects were selected based on defined set of criteria to include the innovativeness, impact, feasibility and sustainability of projects, as well as the extent to which the groups collaborate with others within the JN Circle network and external partners to implement the initiatives.

“In selecting the successful applicant, we looked at the originality and creativity in addressing societal or community challenges. We also looked at the expected outcomes and the potential to create positive change. The groups were also required to present a realistic and achievable plan, as well as show evidence of long-term viability and potential for ongoing impact beyond the grant period. There was also a requirement for collaboration among the JN Circle Network or external partners,” she outlined.

“I am happy for all of you because I know the journey, and I want to say congratulations… because the application process demanded you package your ideas according to world class standards. Well done to all of you,” she told Circle members at a recent luncheon in St Ann where the awards were announced.

The JN Circle is a transnational network of JN members and customers who, by leveraging the JN network, serve as advocates and community change agents to improve their own lives and positively impact their communities. There are some 16 JN Circle Chapters spread across all parishes across Jamaica. The network also thrives in Toronto, Canada and London, England. 

Pixley Irons, president, JN Circle Ocho Rios, Port Maria and Gayle, whose Chapter received four grants, said his group is passionate about education and submitted proposals geared towards addressing education challenges in his locale.

“We submitted proposals for a rainwater harvesting system for Ferncourt High School; repairs to be done on Gayle Primary Reading Room; Jeffrey Town Basic School had asked us for some appliances; and the refurbishing of the Clapham Basic School. We asked members of our Circle to ask around the communities to see what projects were there that we could undertake. When we got the feedback, we got more projects than we could assist and we shortlisted these,” he outlined.

“There are many things that need to be done but we placed special emphasis on education because it is important. We need our students to be comfortable in their environment. All our projects surround educational institutions, and we are pleased that we were able to submit these projects and they qualified for a grant from the JN Foundation,” he added.

Among the other projects to benefit from individual grants were JN Circle Port Antonio to furnish the Port Antonio Women’s Centre; JN Circle Mandeville to install a solar water heating system for a homeless shelter in Manchester and JN Circle Junction to introduce a reading programme in Alligator Pond, Manchester.

JN Circle Westmoreland also received funding to refurbish the Paul Island Basic School and to upgrade the Hatfield Basic School in the parish; JN Circle Spanish Town received funding for an environment project targeted to youth in Spanish Town, St Catherine, and JN Circle Morant Bay were presented with funds for a Digital Access Project for the St Thomas Parish Library and to establish a playground at the Chapel Hill Basic School. JN Circle Lucea will use its funds for the Maryland Basic School Playground, and JN Circle Santa Cruz will develop a playground at the Northampton Basic School so that the institution can receive certification from the Early Childhood Commission (ECC). The Santa Cruz Circle will also upgrade the Goshen Primary School so it can be certified by the ECC.

Photo Caption: Top of the Class recipients of the JN Foundation Scholarship Programme, Gabrielle Numa (second left at front) of Campion College and Taevion Morgan (second right at front) take a group photo with JN Group management team and their parents.

Five outstanding JN Scholars who performed exceptionally well at the end of the academic year 2022-2023 were celebrated by the JN Foundation, at a luncheon dubbed ‘Top of the Class’, recently at The Jamaica National Group’s Corporate Office on Oxford Road in Kingston.

JN Foundation awards outstanding students who performed admirably in the grade six (PEP Exams) with annual grants valued at $50,000 for the first five years of secondary study, on the condition that they maintain set academic performance standards.

Miss Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation notes the Foundation aims to add value for scholars.

“The JN Foundation will ensure that your journey with us is rewarding, and one of the things we will focus on is the building of character by helping you to show up in spaces with confidence and to articulate and present yourself well,” she informed students at the luncheon with guests such as the chairman of the JN Foundation, Parris Lyew-Ayee; the JN Group chief executive officer, Earl Jarrett and other JN senior managers and parents.

The students were commended by Mr Jarrett, who encouraged them to be all-rounders and to get involved in extracurricular activities.

“Seek to find opportunities where you can be part of a team, whether in sports or volunteering, in areas that support your ambitions. These are important things that we should do, as one needs to be able to share,” he pointed out.

Mr Jarrett urged the students to adopt good values such as dependability, authenticity, respect, and transparency, which he said are the values that The Jamaica National Group embraces.

“They are simple words, but if you live them every day, it will make a big difference,” he pointed out.

Jermaine Nairne, senior manager, Talent Performance and Culture at The Jamaica National Group, congratulated the students and encouraged them to make the most of their high school years.

“In making the most of your journey, ensure that you demonstrate humanity. So, one of the repeaters of sustained success is your emotional intelligence. Ensure that you are deliberate about working on your emotional intelligence, and that is your awareness of self, management of self and how you manage your relationships with others,” he advised.

Shereen Jones, assistant general manager, and chief information officer at The Jamaica National Group, commended the students and encouraged them to focus on being well-rounded individuals.

“The academics demonstrate your capacity to do well, and it will get you into a job, but the truth of the matter is that your growth potential, how far you will go, and  how well you succeed are going to be dependent on a number of things we call the soft skills, and how rounded you are is going to depend on how well you work with others,” she said.

Lead, Youth and Education Programmes at the JN Foundation, Shanna Kaye Wright Vaughn, said the ‘Top-of-the-Class’ initiative was conceptualised to encourage the JN Scholars and their parents to continue to aim for and to celebrate success.

“We are looking forward to greater things in 2024, as we seek to interact more with our scholars,” she said, noting that there will be initiatives such as mentorship opportunities and financial literacy activities for the JN scholars.