May 31 Deadline Set for Discounted Jamaica Diaspora Conference Registration

Jamaicans living abroad who plan to take part in the 11th Biennial Diaspora Conference have a little more than one week remaining to register at the reduced cost.

The early rate of US$180 will close on May 31. The Gleaner understands that after that date, registration is expected to move to US$200 for each participant.

This year’s conference is scheduled for June 14 to 18 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James. It will be staged under the theme, "Diaspora Partnerships: Rebuilding a More Resilient Jamaica".

The Government has not announced an attendance goal. However, Alando Terrelonge, minister of state in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, which has responsibility for the event, said he wants the numbers to go beyond the roughly 1,200 people who attended the 2024 staging.

With the conference now less than a month away, organisers are increasing promotional efforts to attract more interest and persuade additional members of the Diaspora to sign up.

Still, turnout could be shaped by several issues. These include expensive air travel and the absence of any sign that the Government has finalised airline arrangements for reduced fares.

The foreign ministry has secured lower hotel rates for conference participants at a number of properties in and around Montego Bay.

The event’s timing may also pose a difficulty, as it opens three days after the FIFA World Cup begins in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Conference organisers have played down that concern, saying persons intending to attend would have made travel plans while already aware of the dates.

Members of the Jamaican Diaspora are being urged to participate so they can meet directly with Government representatives as well as private-sector interests and examine possible investment opportunities.