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Virtual forum will examine how diaspora connections can support entrepreneurship, community building and Jamaica’s economic future.
SOUTHERN UNITED STATES — The Jamaican Diaspora can play a larger role in Jamaica’s economic future by moving beyond traditional remittances. In addition, they can do this by moving toward coordinated investment, entrepreneurship and community building, organizers of an upcoming virtual forum said.
The conversation, “Beyond Remittances: When a Diaspora Builds Together,” will feature Janice McIntosh, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council representative for the Southern USA, and serial entrepreneur Christopher Cochran of Entrepreneurs Across Borders. The Zoom event is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27, from 7 to 8 p.m. EDT.
Organizers said the forum will focus on how Jamaicans abroad can turn personal and professional networks into practical opportunities for startups and business development. They stressed that the effort can also contribute to long-term economic impact in Jamaica.
Cochran and his partners have invested more than US$2 million in Jamaican startups, according to organizers. During the forum, he is expected to discuss lessons from that work. Also, he will identify opportunities for deeper diaspora engagement in Jamaica’s innovation and business sectors.
GJDC Representative, Southern USA
“Beyond Remittances reflects the kind of diaspora engagement I want to foster — moving beyond simply sending resources home to building relationships, creating opportunities and investing in Jamaica’s future,” McIntosh said.
“My vision is to build the most connected and unified Jamaican Diaspora in the Southern United States, and conversations like this allow us to harness our collective influence, expertise and resources to create meaningful impact both here and in Jamaica.”
The event comes as diaspora organizations continue to look for ways to strengthen economic ties with Jamaica through mentorship, investment and cross-border collaboration.
Event Details
What: “Beyond Remittances: When a Diaspora Builds Together”
Who: Janice McIntosh, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council representative for the Southern USA, in conversation with Christopher Cochran of Entrepreneurs Across Borders
When: Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, 7-8 p.m. EDT
Where: Live on Zoom
Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZpGzYAUzSmGVNXpSTaG-CA
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