New Global Jamaican Diaspora Representatives Elected Across Key Regions

2026-03-25 - 18:42

Jamaica’s global diaspora has ushered in a new cohort of leadership following the conclusion of the latest Global Jamaica Diaspora Council elections, with representatives now confirmed across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade under the portfolio of the Honourable Alando Terrelonge, the elections mark a significant step in strengthening connections between Jamaicans overseas and the island, while expanding youth representation through the Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council. Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the Honourable Alando Terrelonge – Image via JIS A New Chapter for Diaspora Leadership The Global Jamaica Diaspora Council serves as a key advisory body, representing the interests, concerns, and contributions of Jamaicans living abroad. Its members work closely with the Jamaican government to support national development, investment opportunities, and cultural engagement. This latest election cycle saw strong participation and a notable number of first-time candidates stepping into leadership roles, signalling a shift towards broader representation and renewed energy within diaspora governance structures. Alongside the main council, the Youth Council continues to play an increasingly important role, giving younger Jamaicans a seat at the table and a voice in shaping diaspora policy and engagement. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Jamaica (@mfaftja) The Newly Elected Reps The newly elected cohort reflects the geographic reach and growing influence of Jamaica’s diaspora. These leaders—across both the main council and youth arm—will play a critical role in shaping how overseas Jamaicans contribute to national development and cultural connection. Canada Representatives In Canada, home to one of the largest Jamaican diaspora communities, Leo Campbell and Lisa Rutty have been elected to serve on the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council. Representing the next generation, Steven Getten and Ramon Stultz will serve on the Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council, bringing youth perspectives into the broader diaspora leadership framework. United States Representatives Across the United States, representation spans multiple regions. In the North East, Michelle Tulloch Neil has been elected to the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, with Ananda Francis serving on the Youth Council. For the West and Mid-West region, Dr. Binzie Roy Davidson will represent on the main council, supported by Youth Council representative Solange Sinclair. In the southern United States, Janice McIntosh has been elected to the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, alongside Youth Council representative Zoe Chin Loy. United Kingdom Representatives In the United Kingdom, representation is split between north and south, with Marcus Humphrey elected to the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council for the northern region. In the south, Patrick Vernon will serve on the main council, with Abigail Brady Rhoden representing youth voices on the Youth Council. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zoe Chin loy (@zoechinloy) Strengthening the Jamaica–Diaspora Connection The Global Jamaica Diaspora Council has long played a central role in bridging Jamaicans abroad with developments at home, particularly in areas such as investment, philanthropy, education, and cultural exchange. With this newly elected group, there is an opportunity to deepen those connections further—especially at a time when diaspora engagement continues to be a critical pillar of Jamaica’s national development strategy. The inclusion of youth representatives also reflects a growing recognition that the next generation must be actively involved in shaping the future of diaspora relations, ensuring continuity, innovation, and long-term impact. Looking Ahead As the newly elected representatives assume their roles, attention will now turn to how effectively they can mobilise their respective communities, advocate for diaspora interests, and contribute to national priorities. For Jamaicans at home and abroad, the expectation is clear: stronger collaboration, clearer communication, and meaningful action that translates diaspora influence into tangible benefits for the island.