ON Magazine 2017

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WAYS TO BE ON PURPOSE IN 2017

What Makes A Great Leader?

FIVE LEADING JPS WOMEN RESPOND…

When Your Gift Finds You...

Sisterhood:

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Sweetness For The Soul

MODELLING LEADERSHIP

Lessons from Jamaica’s Top Energy Experts

TIPS FOR KEEPING FIT & HEALTHY

Kelly Tomblin ADVICE, INSPIRATION & WISDOM JUST FOR YOU!

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March 2017

In This Issue 5 6

22 11 13 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 28 29

In The Office: Wayne McKenzie

30 31 32 32 33 35 38 41 46 48 50

Rising Stars in Energy

scenes?

From The Editor Kelly Tomblin: Advice, Inspiration & Wisdom Just For You! Behind The Scenes Gas Journey To Jamaica Sheree Martin: Women In Leadership Sisterhood: Sweetness for the Soul Sisterhood at work In Full Bloom 5 Ways To Be On Purpose In 2017

WIE Testimonials Personal Energy Management Ambassador Dr. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, O.D. 7 Leading Women In Jamaica When Your Gift Finds You Get Ready For JPS TV: Coming To A JPS Office

51 53 54 56 57 58

The JPS Customer Experience Clean & Green Jamaica 3 Things women can do to be Trailblazing Leaders Doing It All Execution Excellence Leading Women of JPS Modelling Leadership A Few Good Men How To Get To The Millionaire’s Club Get Educated For The Future What’s it like working on WIE from behind the 10 Tips For Keeping Fit & Healthy in 2017!

Energy Solutions A Letter To My Daughter In The Boardroom with Minna Israel JPS Foundation Snapshots: 2016 Highlights

Near You!

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35 ON Magazine |

Gary is also a mountain biker and enjoys riding through the hillsides with his team or solo.

four and a half years. “Where I am today, I think my vision is much larger than it used to be. I feel that I am maturing into really serving my purpose. Everything I did from that point of change to now, was preparing me for what I am doing right now.”

The work carried out by Barrow and his team, requires a great amount of energyphysical, mental and spiritual. Barrow says that he gets a lot of satisfaction out of seeing leaders grow.

He is of the opinion that execution requires courage and being bold in the midst of opposition.

“You will find that Execution Excellence is an interaction, not just of systems, but of people, processes, of operations and strategies- it is a delicate interaction of all those variables.”

All of these efforts will allow Barrow and his team to continue to enshrine the principle of Execution Excellence into the company’s culture to facilitate further growth, and ultimately bask in the fulfillment of executing the objectives set out for further growth and development not only for JPS, but for Jamaica.

“Execution Excellence is an important part of where we really want to take JPS,” Barrow said. “It is an important ingredient in the recipe of moving forward, as we get closer to being one of the most desirable companies to work with, one of the most loved companies, standing out as a shining example.”|ON

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Sweetness For The Soul

MODELLING LEADERSHIP

Lessons from Jamaica’s Top Energy Experts

TIPS FOR KEEPING FIT & HEALTHY

Kelly Tomblin ADVICE, INSPIRATION & WISDOM JUST FOR YOU!

The Lifestyle Magazine Powered By JPS

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FIVE LEADING JPS WOMEN RESPOND…

WAYS TO BE ON PURPOSE IN 2017

March 2017

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March 2017

From The Editor

Continuing The Conversation I

t’s exactly a year since we started the conversation about women in energy – and what a year it has been!

The conversation that started with the inaugural Women in Energy Conference and the publication of the first issue of the ON Magazine, has expanded beyond our wildest imaginations! In the past year, we have seen that conversation extending beyond the energy sector, to include women and men in the many industries that touch and involve the sector.

And why not? There continues to be exponential change in energy – both locally and globally – with greater diversification, more renewables, innovative technology, and changing customer needs. And, by tapping into our growing connectivity, we have

been coming up with solutions and responding to the changing environment.

But our conversation has gone beyond the external world of energy, to an examination of the internal energy that we bring, individually and collectively – to our companies, our communities, and the world in general.

Ignited by the passion of JPS President and CEO, Kelly Tomblin, and fuelled by the energy of the women of JPS, the conversation about women in energy has extended beyond the walls of a conference room and the pages of a magazine. This conversation has evolved into something of a movement of persons recognising and embracing the need to “do power differently”.

This issue of ON provides a snapshot of what has evolved from this movement. Our stories and features will give you a glimpse into some of the areas on which we have focused since we started this conversation. You will get the opportunity to celebrate the growth of our women who are doing power differently.

As with many conversations, there have been some challenging questions… Who are we - really? What’s our contribution? What kind of leadership are we providing?

How are we leading and responding to change? What’s our legacy? The answers are as unique and nuanced as the voices of the participants in the conversation. As with many conversations, there have also been solutions: partnerships, mentorships, coaching, growth, and empowerment.

In these pages, we will share some of the insights and solutions coming out of our conversation. Here, you will find information that you can use immediately – leadership advice, financial advice, spiritual advice, and advice on how to take care of the whole you. You will also find food for thought. You will be inspired, informed, and entertained. You will see some familiar faces, and hear familiar voices. You will also see some new faces and hear some of the new voices that have joined the conversation in the last few months.

As with many conversations, this one is to be continued. Please, join the conversation, as we reaffirm our commitment to lead the energy revolution by Doing Power Differently!

Winsome Callum Editor-in-Chief

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Kelly Tomblin ADVICE, INSPIRATION & WISDOM JUST FOR YOU!

I

n December 2016, Kelly Tomblin was awarded the Platts Global Energy Awards 2016 CEO of the year- one of the most coveted awards in the energy industry.

She was described by the panel of judges as one who stood out when it comes to thriving amidst challenge. With twenty years of experience in the energy industry, in both deregulated and vertically integrated markets in the US, the UK and Latin America- this leader has earned a reputation for organizational transformation. Kelly was recruited from GDF SUEZ in 2012 for a CEO position at the country’s sole distributor of electricity, where significant issues had caused growth to stagnate. Its customer satisfaction rating hovered near twenty per cent due to high energy prices, poor customer service and an aggressive disconnection policy.

Our winner turned the company around in a difficult environment, uniting it around a new vision statement, ‘We are the people leading the revolution, unleashing Jamaica’s growth and prosperity’. Winning back customer satisfaction was next, which this winner achieved through the introduction of prepaid service, amnesty for outstanding debtors and a customer rewards program. This leader also undertook larger initiatives that improved operational efficiency. In 2016 she achieved a long time goal of bringing fuel diversity to the country, through LNG; as a part of efforts to reduce reliance on oil from 95% to 50% by 2019. The company is now thriving under her watch, reporting a fifteen per cent increase in profits since 2014, while customer satisfaction has climbed to nearly 90%.

Kelly Tomblin is no stranger to us- but the passion and inspiration that drives this powerhouse may not be very well understood. We sat down with her to experience her energy.

ON: How do you define ENERGY? Kelly Tomblin (KT): Energy is both internal and external. I view it

as the driving force -- the fuel of lives and business and everything in between. Externally, it can be felt as the collective motion and vibration throughout the planet. Internally, it is the momentum that exists within us - propelling our thoughts, actions and emotions.

There is a great juxtaposition between the two and of course, they influence each other.

While energy inside gives us the spirit that keeps us going day in and day out- it has a great impact on the collective energy of the world.

ON: What is your mantra?

KT: I have several of them. I

get new ones every year. One of them last year was a quote from Rumi, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.

ON Magazine | There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.”

Another favorite of mine was, “I release the need to determine how things should be- my soul guides me in the right direction.”

I don’t have a mantra that lives forever- but I do have some that are embedded in my head and heart, such as “One Love”. When I was younger, I applied a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, where he said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is a great accomplishment”.

Finally, there is a view, as David Whyte said in his poem “What to Remember upon Waking” –that the things you can plan are too small for you: In that first hardly noticed moment in which you wake, coming back to this life from the other more secret, moveable and frighteningly honest world where everything began, there is a small opening into the new day which closes the moment you begin your plans.

What you can plan is too small for you to live.

What you can live wholeheartedly will make plans enough for the vitality hidden in your sleep...

I am very influenced by what I read, so I always have faith that the spirit is guiding me to read the right thing I need to read, and at the right time.

ON: Does your personal outlook on life affect your leadership style?

KT: Absolutely. It is the reason I became a leader.

I believe I am here to create unity and reintroduce love in a corporate context- and re-create language models for the expansion of the concept of “work.” My team and I discuss topics that are not typical for corporate board rooms: Can you muster the courage to be really seen? What are our

March 2017

fears about being vulnerable? How can we grant legitimacy to everyone on our team so we can really hear them? We remind each other that “being seen” is not about being on the news- it is about being open with your whole self, your failings, and your blind spots. We talk a lot about the roadblock of hierarchy and how humility is required to remove it.

To have these conversations, you first have to know yourself — that is a prerequisite to remarkable leadership.

I also believe that the “why” question is the hallmark of leadership.

Why are you here? Why is the company doing this? What impact do we want to have? When you focus on the “who you are” and “why we are here” questions, the “what” and the “how” become easier.

So my leadership is very much driven in a somewhat spiritual way- meaning that leadership at its core is a sacred kind of calling to lift others — which propels you forward at the same time.

I find the most awesome leaders are those who believe with all their hearts we were all born to do something and they are on a mission — a scavenger hunt — to help others find their role. Leadership truly is a conversation - best had as an intentional, intimate and interactive, and inclusive work plan.

My goal now is to ensure that the company has a leadership team that can be sustained without me- that what we all built together survives regardless of leadership.

We are also focusing on- “The Art of Getting Things Done”.

Those who have studied how companies execute their objectives have discovered that great successes start with knowing self. When you know yourself you’re then able to more effectively interact with othersequipped to be better leaders, and create stronger teams.

ON: What did you anticipate moving forward as CEO of JPS in the first year of being here?

KT: I thought it would be a typical turnaround — something I

am very experienced in. I was told by the interview team that the company needed a “financial turnaround” which was supposed to require me to stay in Jamaica for two years. By the first couple of

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months, I understood that this would be no “quick fix” and that several fundamental issues needed to be addressed —including employee engagement, customer relationship, respect in general and aged technology. The two years have turned into five years.

One of the hardest things to deal with early on was the amount of public venom against JPS. I wasn’t used to that. Plus, there were so many communities stealing electricity, and I had never experienced that.

On top of it, no one wanted JPS to make profit.

I then realized that I would need to surround myself with a skilled, purposeful, leadership team if we had any chance of turning that around. We also needed a new organizational structure - a new vision, a mission, some new people, new technology and new processes. We needed to change the issue of reputation regarding how JPS was viewed

by Jamaicans.

Out of all we have been able to do, the thing I am most proud of is the team we have assembled. Both the leadership team and the employee culture have stepped up to meet the demands of our customers. We are not perfect, but our heart is in the right place.

ON: Where do you see JPS by the year 2020 and its potential to be a leader in the Energy Industry.

KT: I have a vision that JPS continues to stand for, our mantra--l “Do

Power Differently”. That approach involves all the definitions of POWER, ENERGY and LIGHT— both internally and externally. I see us full of expertise and humility, serving Jamaicans not only in our service as energy suppliers, but also through our outreach programs. In the literal sense of power, we have made great strides in fuel diversity. Another exciting part of our growth has to do with our Customer Solutions and the Smart Grid. I don’t know if you would have noticed, but in New Kingston, the smart city has started to emerge- and our dream is for Jamaica to become a Smart Nation.

Our #TeamJPS ambassadors are on fire - we are creating Smart Grids, launched Smart Homes and with the JPS mobile app, Jamaicans can receive and pay their bills via their smartphones, while monitoring

their consumption- all with the aim of being more energy efficient in every way.

In the future, we want to introduce price signals. What do I mean by this? Well, what happens is that at night when no renewable energy source is on and we have our peak load, electricity is more expensive to generate, but we do not have a price signal. We know that will promote overall lower costs of energy. Under this scenario there will be rate brackets - a rate in the day,, another between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m. another after 9 pm. In addition, to maintaining energy security we must invest in storage capability. We have a team working on that now.

Another exciting development is electric cars which can act as a storage mechanism. I look forward to JPS being recognized as an altruistic company, where we give back in a humble way- setting that as the standard for our full profit companies, something that is usually attributed to non-profit organizations.

ON: You have placed emphasis on the “why” as a guide and motivation for being a catalyst for change. How will the “why” of JPS continue to lead to further growth?

KT: There is a pop song that says “I didn’t know I was starving ’till I

tasted you…”- it is a concept that can be applied to almost everything. I always say, “There is a time where greater good is thirsted for”.

Once people get a taste of good, of purpose, and the feeling of belonging to something bigger than themselves, nothing else will do.

You can have a great job and make a lot of money- but once you get a taste of purpose, passion, the feeling of fulfilling why you are here, why you have come into existence- nothing else will suffice, and that is what good leaders do.

ON: As The Platts Global CEO of The Year, what advice do you have for women of all age groups, and walks of life in pursuit of greatness? (Especially in male dominated industries).

KT: Don’t play small! Take risks! If you are faced with two choices, choose the one that makes you feel most uncomfortable, because that

Photography by Adrian Creary & Craig Harley; Creative Direction by Tricia Williamson;

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“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is a great accomplishment” is where your growth will lie. I always emphasize the importance of spending time in silence.

Leave time for wisdom seeking. Integrate the

Interviewed by Marshelle Haseley

practice of reflection in your life, whether it may be prayer, meditation, yoga- some place where you tap into your inner wisdom, you may be inspired to take risks on yourself and others.

I am so proud of some women who have taken risks in this company, in situations where I was told how crazy I was. Every risk-taking has not been perfect, but there has been growth and we are “batting above average”. So take risks, because you are stronger than you know. When you tap into that well, you will never be satisfied with playing small again. That is what I hope for everybody. Life is not perfect, but it can be interesting; it can be joyful, optimistic and really meaningful.| ON

March 2017

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Behind The Scenes

www.myjpsco.com corpcom.media@jpsco.com myjpsonline

@myjpsonline

@myjpsonline

JPS Editorial Team Publisher Editor-in-chief Executive Editor Editorial Projects Director Copy Editor

JPS Winsome Callum Ruthlyn Johnson Shenee Tabannah Audrey Williams

Magazine Production Team

Project Manager & Creative Director Tricia Williamson Photography Director Craig Harley Photographers Craig Harley, Adrian Creary, Oneil Banton, Phillip Fox Photo Editor/Lighting Adrian Creary Design & Layout Artist Oneil Banton Copy Editor Amitabh Sharma Lead Writer Marshelle Haseley Writers Sheri Kae McCleod, Ceceil McConnell, Chrystal Smith, Amitabh Sharma, Latoya Jones Lead Makeup Artist Rasine Hamilton Makeup Artists Kimberly Mayne, Sophia Butler, Nadz Makeup Making of ON Magazine Video Randall Richards Photo Studio ARRC Creative Media

And that’s a wrap! Kelly Tomblin giving you a different view in this amazing selfie with Adrian Creary.

Thanks (from left to right) to Keith Garvey, Marvin Campbell, Roger Kennedy and Rasheed Anderson (not seen here) for being so great on set at Sora Japanese- a truly beautiful location.

PANACHE COMMUNICATIONS www.panachejamagazine.com tricia@panachejamagazine.com 1-876-878-3750

SPECIAL THANKS TO Chocolate Dreams and Sora Japanese Cuisine - our location partners for this issue.

ON Magazine Disclaimer Notwithstanding anything contained in this disclaimer, herein, neither JPS, the ON Magazine, nor any of its contractors/agencies give any warranties or guarantees for the contents or any material included in the magazine and shall not be responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any kind whether directly or indirectly including any loss of profits or any consequential or inconsequential damages suffered or incurred by the user for whatever reason. The content of this magazine is obtained from several sources and may include; facts, views, opinions, predictions or forecasts and information which may be of use to you generally. The content should therefore, be used for general information only. While every care is taken, we do not guarantee the accuracy, timely, current and completeness of the information or content on our magazine. The contents are provided “as is” without any warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement. We do not share, endorse, warrant, nor accept any responsibility for views, opinions, predictions or forecasts and information provided or displayed in the magazine.

ON Magazine |

March 2017

Gas Journey to Jamaica Joseph Williams & Ruben Thomas share their story

w Holness; Energy er of Jamaica, The Most Hon. Andre CEO of JPS Kelly Tomblin; Prime Minist at the Gas to Bogue Celebrations nt Brannen McElmurray; President & ss mome c Fortre histori New of the in ctor shared o; Dire Luis Moren Edens were all smiles as they Bogue: (From left) US Ambassador der and CEO of New Fortress Wes Secretary in the Ministry Hilary Alexan Minister Andrew Wheatley, Permanent on November 11, 2016.

J

PS made its mark in Jamaica’s history with the introduction of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in 2016, and the Bogue Power Plant in Montego Bay was the location of choice for this momentous change.

This represented a historic milestone that has forever changed Jamaica’s energy landscape.

Joseph Williams, Senior Vice President Joseph Williams of Generation and Ruben Thomas, Plant Manager at the Bogue Power Station, who played critical roles in making natural gas a part of the island’s fuel mix for electricity generation, share highlights of the transformative gas journey.

These gentlemen have served JPS for a combined total of over 50 years. Their expertise and passion for the job are evident once they begin to share details of the process of getting gas to Jamaica’s shores, and converting the Bogue plant to use the new fuel. The implementation of LNG was, to say the least, a massive undertaking for the company.

In Joseph’s sojourn with JPS, he has seen projects each year that

are accompanied by new challenges. For him, the underlining factor for success is that one has to have a mindset to get the job done, and done well. Both Ruben and Joseph agree that the introduction of LNG posed new challenges; however, their years of experience aided in their preparation to undertake this feat.

For Ruben, the intricacies of Ruben Thomas managing the logistics, coordination and communication with the multiple parties involved, was like nothing he had ever experienced before. He points out that there has never been a power generation project that has attracted this level of national attention. That’s because this project was not just about JPS. It represented a national achievement because, for more than a decade Jamaica has been trying to introduce natural gas as part of the country’s fuel diversification strategy.

Recognizing the national significance of the project, the entire JPS came together to make it a success. Joseph stresses that everyone

played their part – both inside and outside of JPS. He lauds the members of the Bogue team, who were required to give more than the ordinary to facilitate the introduction of LNG into the generation mix at Bogue. He adds that the staff rose to the occasion and became enthused spokesmen and women for the project, doing what was necessary to achieve an incident-free transition.

The engagement of key stakeholders was a critical part of the process. Business leaders, policy makers, and communities had to be involved - from the planning stages through to project completion and commissioning. In particular, tourism interests in Montego Bay wanted to understand how the arrival of the LNG ship would affect tourism activities. They supported the introduction of LNG, recognizing that the process would not disrupt tourism, but would lead to the production of cleaner energy, thereby ultimately enhancing the tourism product.

Both Joseph and Ruben are excited about the future of energy in Jamaica, and regard themselves as agents of change in their current roles. They are particularly happy about the lowering of emissions overall, as the new gas plants will allow for the more seamless integration of renewable energy onto the grid. They maintain that the issue of global warming must not be ignored, and that clean energy is a critical part of securing our energy future.

Our power generation experts are advocating for everyone to support the common goal of moving Jamaica forward. The Bogue initiative, for them, is a clear demonstration of what unity can accomplish for the nation. They point to the additional economic benefits to be derived from having LNG in Jamaica, including: LNG bunkering for ships; LNG transshipments services for the Caribbean to support small scale deliveries; and natural gas supplies for industrial purposes (including the transport sector).

JPS takes very seriously its role as a partner in national development, and as leaders of the energy revolution in Jamaica and the region. Ruben urges, “We simply ask that you believe in us, place more confidence in the JPS team, as we strive to do the best for the nation.”

Joseph believes that, “It is time for us as a nation to agree on what is important in moving Jamaica forward; and have a common goal for making big visions reality.” |ON

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“Doubt is a killer. You just have to know who you are and what you stand for.�

- Jennifer Lopez

ON Magazine |

March 2017

Sheree Martin, Senior Vice President, Energy Delivery at JPS is surrounded by her girls from Apha Academy, her alma mater.

Sheree Martin WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

L

eader – the word is a sum of all - someone who has the quality and the ability to be at the forefront, someone who is an innovator, empathizer, listener, dreamer, executor, protector.

For Sheree Martin, Senior Vice President – Energy Delivery, at JPS, these leadership traits are embedded in her DNA, and she is passionate that more women take up the role as they have distinct qualities that they bring to the table.

“Women leaders may have distinct traits compared to men, but it really comes down to the individual – what they have been exposed to and what influences their awareness of self and others,” Sheree said, sitting in her office in New Kingston. “This contributes significantly to the way they lead.”

According to her, despite Jamaica having the distinction of having the most female corporate leaders in the world, women are underrepresented in positions of influence and power – this could be the proverbal ‘glass ceiling’ or perhaps the perception of it.

“I believe traditions take a long time to change and that a number of forces usually converge before barriers are finally broken,” she said.

“Where we do have examples of women at the pinnacle of success,” she added, “they should regard it as their sacred responsibility to reach out and help others do the same, until it becomes the norm to not see a glass ceiling.”

“I believe we are each a sum of our individual life experiences,” she said. These experiences influence our thinking, our values, our motivations and our behaviours.

Sheree, who advocates strong family values, says she sees distinct differences in the way most women lead, compared to men.

“Men typically collaborate more competitively, they downplay emotions yet are usually more aggressive, they define themselves primarily through accomplishments and are unafraid to ask for recognition,” she said. “Women are seen as more empathetic and concerned about followers and they emphasize themselves as positive role models, fostering

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relationships and empowerment in their teams.”

But, she adds, that there are exceptions to these descriptions.

“Over the years I have seen male and female leaders who exhibit behaviours outside of these respective norms,” Sheree said.

It is critical for a leader, she says, to strike a balance. In this day and age, where life has become more virtual than real, the pace is measured by gigabytes of speed, the humane factor has to work in harmony with objectivity and insular paradigms. This is where the Emotional Quotient comes into play.

“I will use “Head” to describe IQ and “Heart” to describe EQ,” she said. “‘Head’ is equally as important as ‘Heart’ – they work together.

Neither takes precedence over the other,” she said.

“There will be times when you have incorporated both,” Sheree said. “But the decision will still come down to the data and facts that are presented.”

“The work environment is essentially a network of relationships,” she said.

“One will only get so far on the basis of what one knows (IQ).

Learning to co-exist harmoniously in a team environment requires good EQ,” Sheree added. “And this is not something we are always told to be conscious of.”

These traits, she says, are not gender specific, but stem out of numerous factors, which influence the functioning of an individual – it is certainly not a ‘man or a woman thing’.

Critical for an effective leader is support from all quarters and the mindset to learn, which according to Sheree, have been key influencers in her career.

“This was an important element of my success,” she said. “But with the opportunity of having strong support from those who I reported

to, came my responsibility to learn and perform well in the assigned roles, while also consciously continuing to develop both my IQ and EQ competencies.”

And, it is important to have succession planning, because the functioning of a successful organization is running a relay race – keeping on track and seamlessly passing the baton for the next runner to anchor the leg. For this, Sheree said, there are some mannerisms that one has to look out for.

“If someone has a reputation of always not being able to get along with others in the workplace, or is always complaining that someone else is “out to get them”, I usually become wary of their prospects for advancement,” she said.

In the case of women, she said, how a company perceives their roles and responsibilities, determines whether the proverbial ‘glass ceiling’ exists or not. “A woman may find that she is well-rounded and ready, but remains stuck,” she said.

To overcome that, she advises, women who find themselves in such situations to examine their options and pursue alternatives.

“No one should ever accept that their future is limited to what their current environment can offer,” she said.

That rational and independent thinking has to start young. Like a ceramist, using his hands to create awe-inspiring pieces out of clay, a young mind has to be molded and shaped to exude its radiance and beauty.

“I grew up being told that my life is what I make it. That I can achieve anything I want – never mind my very humble beginnings,” she said. “That mindset has brought me peace untold.”

“Imagine,” she stated, “if we spoke such power into our young girls and boys every day? Imagine how we would see dreams being pursued

Photography by Oneil Banton; Story by Amitabh Sharma.

ON Magazine | differently all over our country?”

“As I said during my presentation at the 2016 WIE Conference – “nothing has meaning except the meaning you give it”. Simple, but not easy. But it is one way to start facing down your fears.”

For young girls and women, it is the cultural mindset and the myriad of pre-conceived notions that become barriers to their success and them realizing their potential.

Girls, she said, are channeled into designated fields of study, which is the reason that one does not find many of them in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM), with medical sciences being an exception. “We don’t always allow their budding interests to grow and they are subtly channeled towards other areas. Some will argue, that boys simply are more drawn to STEM fields than girls,” she said.

“I believe nevertheless, that a shift is happening as I see several initiatives endorsed by the MSET for example, targeting girls in areas like Computer Coding and Robotics,” Sheree said.

Apart from the void that needs to be filled in the sciences, she says there is a definitive need for women to move from the bottom rung of the corporate pyramid to the middle management. A generous sprinkling of encouragement is what is needed.

“Mentorship is a great way to prepare and support more female leaders,” Sheree said.

Lessons on leadership have been inscribed in time immemorial, from the ancient scriptures to the modern day management programs; for companies to be on a growth trajectory, it is critical to have a level playing field, where there are no barriers in the name of gender, social status, colour and ethnicity.

”For young girls and mindset and the myriad that become barriers to realizing their

March 2017

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For Sheree, life on the career superhighway is moving on in overdrive, from banking and now to energy, she shares five key lessons that she has learnt along the way.

“Apart from learning the language of a new industry, I have confirmed some longstanding beliefs,” Sheree said.

1.

That people are the same wherever you go - different players, but same game.

2. That there is no force like an idea whose time has come.

3. That we are far more critical of ourselves than others are of us.

4. That what you give to others comes back to you several times over.

5. That I get to choose, no one else.|ON

women, it is the cultural of preconceived notions their success and them potential.”

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Sisterhood sweetness for the soul!

by Ruthlyn Johnson

I

Sisterhood is essential to balance, critical for laughter, compulsory for upliftment and requisite to tap into your power within. cub, an orangutan and her baby – no sacrifice is too great.

That is how strong and deep the bonds of sisterhood can be. But no need to worry - that same fierce protective shield could become his very source of support once he is welcomed into the fold. He may even be thrilled to discover that he can do no wrong.

In sisterhood there is no competition, it is just sisters empowering each other, building on each other’s strengths, holding each other up, encouraging each other to fulfil her true potential. The support is limitless and unrestricted. Your sister will without hesitation, drop everything and become the mother of your child, the caregiver for your golden-aged Dad, your personal trainer, your psychologist, your chauffeur, your cheering squad and the list goes on…

When the engines of sisterhood begin rolling, you become ensconced in the arms of peace, fully comforted by the knowledge that you are in a protective and protected space.

Sisterhood is essential to balance, it is critical for laughter, it is compulsory for upliftment and requisite to tap into your power within. When life gets tough, your sisters are there to soften the blow and when the laughter is loud they are the same ones who are saving you from falling over from the belly-hurting guffaws. Sisterhood loves, appreciates, cares, facilitates, guides, protects and inspires.

Sisterhood is that sweet spot that we all should let our souls bask in at some point. Why not indulge in yours right now?|ON

Photography by Craig Harley

daresay, there are enough articles that lament the negative behaviour that women sometimes display towards each other. Some articles even go to extremes to give the impression that there is no love left or lost among the sisters.

It is suggested that many females spend every waking minute scheming and plotting the demise of that other beautiful creation of God, who has somehow, unknowingly in some instances, become the target of their devious plots. (Can you hear the witch-like laughter right now?)

Today let us set the record straight, because if we stop and think about it, most of us have experienced the joy of the sisterhood! I have even met some men who are experiencing it and loving it!

Let’s just declare it right here - Sisterhood is alive and well and for many it is kicking too! If it hadn’t existed, many more of us would be lost to depression, unhealthy situations, and hurtful circumstances or just plain lost – period.

If it wasn’t for that “sister” to whom we can turn to and share: our hurt, our pain, our dreams, our desires, our thoughts, our highs, our lows, our wins and our losses, many of us would be disconnected and would be merely surviving and not living.

What would life be like without that sister with her arms outstretched, who just welcomes us back when we have defiantly gone ahead and made the biggest mistake after being advised, “I don’t think that’s a good idea?” And the best part of this mess is that we don’t have to cringe for fear of hearing those four little words, yes four not three…(I told you so) which so sharply pierce our conscience once we recognise our mistakes.

Sisterhood gives us someone or a team who we can count on at all times. Yeah, they got you! And they got your back big time… allowing you to step out knowing that “yu back broad” because of the extra vertebrae they provide.

They hold you up and keep you strong when the rough waves threaten to engulf you; your sisters provide that space where you feel protected.

They love you just as you are, with your idiosyncrasies and your flaws. Within the sisterhood, you can be vulnerable without judgement, weak, but not powerless, silly but still taken seriously and frank without being likened to the female of man’s best friend.

You can cry your eyes out knowing that the sisters have stocked up on enough tissue to wipe up the situation. And when you are done and your healing has started, your sisters are there to embrace you in that dance that says, “We only get stronger because we have each other.”

Sisterhood is a tangible force to be reckoned with. Ask that man who is courting a lady who is deeply connected to a group of sisters who are not yet convinced that he is worthy. He will lament the difficulty he is having attempting to break through that sturdy female armour.

It is imperative that we educate him that there is no ill-will in the intent, it is just the basic Code of the Sisterhood being put into effect. Think of a lioness protecting her

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March 2017

Sisterhood ork

at w

It has become an accepted norm in some quarters, that many women cannot work together in the same space without; infighting, competition and jealousy among other negative behaviours. This is however, not necessarily true. There are situations where women work together and are productive, thrive and succeed based on the motivations and energies of each other. The Corporate Communications Team at JPS is one such team. A team of ONLY women who are a true example of the “sisterhood at work.” Get it?

(lol) They are a family of women, who lift, build, support and motivate each other to be their best selves. They are not perfect, but each lady is a valuable, respected member of the team, giving her all to achieve the team’s and ultimately the company’s goals and guess what... she is also having fun while doing it!

Front Row (L-R) - Audrey Williams, Corporate Communications Officer, Shaneika Lee - Communications and Administrative Assistant, Shenee Tabannah, Corporate Communications Coordinator, Middle Row (L-R) - Olysia Cato, Communications Assistant, Winsome Callum - Director, Corporate Communications, Ayesha Dawes Allen - Digital Media Specialist Back - Ruthlyn Johnson - Corporate Communications Manager

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March 2017

In Full Bloom featuring the Tamia Carey Collection Introduding from #TeamJPS

Ayesha Allen & Donna Barrett

Donna

Ayesha

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Direction: Tricia Williamson;

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Makeup by Kim Wayne; Design: Oneil Banton; Styled: Tamia Carey Collection

ON Magazine |

“Success breeds confidence.”

Beryl Markham

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March 2017

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March 2017

by Krystal Tomlinson

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n October 2016, while watching one of my many series on Netflix, I had a thought. It was clear, simple and stirred my gut and it wasn’t even a full sentence - 2017: On Purpose.

It sounded like a friend telling me to clean the ship, steady the sails and get ready to head into a new direction. And so I started to pray about how this call to action was to play out in my life for 2017.

I soon realized that the call was to envision and commit to a life less ordinary. It was a challenge from the Creator to step into unfamiliar territory and exchange what was ‘easy’ for things more fulfilling and filled with purpose. It was daunting but I moved full speed ahead!

So how did I start? And how can each of us move in the direction of a fulfilling and purpose-driven life?

The Answer: Small but meaningful steps. Start by adding some purpose to your: Petrol. Fill your tank with the GOOD GAS! Of all the people, things, habits and thoughts that you encounter daily which of them give you wings? Take an hour and think about what is fueling you (fear, inadequacy, self-confidence, and your children). The good gas makes you happy to jump out of bed; the bad gas makes you exhausted before you even start trying. Who are your bad gas friends? What are your bad gas thoughts and habits? You deserve clean energy to give you wings.

It will take guts to end the bad relationships but you can’t move at the

speed of #Purpose if you don’t!

Painting. What is your picture of success and happiness? Not what suits parents, spouse or friend. Be honest about what you most crave in life. Is it to buy a new car or go back to school? Paint your picture of success, write it down and share with those close to you so they can check in on your progress and help motivate you.

Planning. THERE IS TIME to do more than work, eat, sleep, and repeat. Let’s do the math. Each week equals 168 hours. We spend on average 45 hours at work and 49 hours sleeping (if you’re lucky enough to get 7 hours sleep each night).

Between traffic (to and from work) and the time it takes to get ready daily, subtract another 10 hours. There are 64 hours left. Whip out that daily planner and start putting in more “I love Me” activities. Schedule your rest, date night with your spouse, family activities and evening classes. Set dates and times and make your goals official. You are a business. Invest the time and energy to grow.

Pocket. It is difficult to plan a bvold and bright future if you think you can’t afford to dream big. Sit with a financial advisor, speak to your creditors and pencil out not just a debt repayment plan but a SAVINGS plan. Learn to pay yourself first. Your dreams matter and some will cost money. Invest in them.

Mood? Gratitude: Researchers recommend it and so do I. It stimulates happiness and good vibes but more importantly it reduces our focus on materialism and challenges us to savour and reflect on the people, conversations and quality time we enjoy every day. Don’t overlook your small blessings. They prepare your heart and mind for bigger ones.

Not only will you start to think brighter but you will step into your days bolder and with renewed purpose and passion. So, go for it and enjoy #2017OnPurpose!| ON

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Direction by Tricia Williamson.

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In the office:

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Wayne McKenzie

ayne McKenzie is no stranger to the energy industry; founder of Jamaica Energy Partners (JEP), he has led a team of motivated people, who, along with him have made a positive impact on the sector. Wayne shared with ON Magazine the qualities, traits and requirements of a leader.

How do you define leadership?

Leadership for me deals with impacting persons on a more individual level. It should entail inspiration and change from the inside out for all persons in my employ. Leadership is more than just giving orders during the 9 to 5; it involves understanding and working with my employees and colleagues to make a difference both at work and outside of work.

Photography by Oneil Banton; Interviewd by Marshelle Haseley

March 2017

What would you say is your leadership style; and what factors influence your approaches as a leader?

I follow the principles of transformational leadership: impacting the lives of the persons I work with. I influence others to dig deep, to aim high, and to attain far beyond what they could even hope or imagine.

What do you believe is the corporate culture when it comes to women playing various roles in the organization?

The women at JEP and WKPP are highly motivated, and are stellar workers. Alongside the males in the workplace, they serve in various capacities of specialized service, and truly contribute to the organization as a whole.

How do you remain motivated as a leader?

My motivation as a leader comes from the energy of my employees, as well as from my love for the company and what we represent. As our mission states, while utilizing the competencies of our staff and fellow citizens, we engage in community development through several partnerships. It heartens me to know that, as a company, we can truly be great corporate citizens.

What are some of the challenges you face as a leader?

Based on the industry we operate in, with its barriers to entry, growing the company has always been a challenge. This challenge has cascaded into fighting to improve and retain key staff. With JEP essentially grooming interns and transforming them into seasoned professionals, the allure of other growth opportunities has affected us as we mature into our third decade of operations.

Is the JEP involved in any outreach programs?

At JEP, we pride ourselves on playing our part to advance Jamaica, and the entire human race, with outreach programs. We sponsor several such programs every year.

First of all, I would like to recognize our dental and health fairs. These are offered in the areas of Old Harbour and West Kingston, and provide free health services to residents in these areas. Secondly, we also have an extensive scholarship program. Each year, we allocate thousands of dollars from our budget, and through our initiative scores of youth have been able to finance their educational pursuits. I have always been a proponent of a good education, and where financial constraints are the only issue preventing this, JEP and WKPP will play their part to ensure the best education possible for Jamaica’s youth. |ON

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Rising Stars In Energy

A changing of the guard is underway in the energy industry in the Caribbean. A new generation of Engineers, Lawmakers, Specialists, Lobbyists, Advocates and staffers are making their presence felt, bringing novel ideas and enthusiasm to the world of energy. In this article we will feature three young rising stars in the Energy Industry in Jamaica who are challenging the status quo and changing the face of energy. These young ladies are definitely ones to watch in this evolving industry!

ROCHELLE REID JAMES

SHENEE TABANNAH

Why Are You One To Watch?

I have been blessed to enter a profession that I love from as early as 20-years-old and I have been falling more and more in love with it and growing and learning ever since.

I am a Communications Strategist with an over the top love and passion for storytelling and event management. One of my proudest accomplishments to date is being the Project Director for Women In Energy Conference. What started as just a conference, has taken on a life of its own and developed into an inspirational movement with women seeking to live their best lives and helping others realise they are valuable and deserve to live the life of their dreams.

Life Lesson you live by: Just one... Life is not a sprint, it is a marathon. You are going to fall, but the beauty is rising every time you fall down- staying down is going to cost you more than rising.

I have two tiaras, one at home and one at the office.

Whenever I feel like I’ve hit a roadblock, made a mistake or just feeling down, I reflect on what went wrong, then I move on, fix my hair, put on my crown and look in the mirror and remind myself that I am a Queen. I was put on this earth for a reason and it will all be okay- I got this!

Then I proceed to greatness (well my version of it that is!)No matter where you are, what you are doing, what talent you were blessed with, we are all worthy of greatness, success and happiness. Just be yourself, be true to you, be kind, love and just live!

Why Are You One To Watch?

I serve as Jamaica’s Youth Ambassador to the United Nations and I am a member of the International Women Ambassadors Forum. As the Chairman of the National Young Adults Sub-Committee of the Jamaica Baptist Union, Industrial Relations Subcommittee of the Labour Market Reform Commission member, Inez Maud Reading Centre’s (IMR) Executive Director and founder of the Youth for Sustainable Development Movement I encourage youth to act as partners in development.

My aim is clear, is to be Jamaica’s future High Commissioner. That aside, my recognition will come from the lives I will touch by expanding my non-profit organization to improve the quality of life for our children and encourage environmental protection.

Life Lesson you live by: “Are you writing your resume or your eulogy” - my husband asked me this question after my grandmother’s passing. In her eulogy there was no notation of her job titles or academic accolades. Instead it focused on the lives she touched and the people she helped. That sums it up for me – I am living for my eulogy.

TANYA HYLTON

Why Are You One To Watch?

I am intrinsically self-motivated and very passionate about living life to my fullest potential.

Last year was a stellar year for me; I got employed as an engineer at JPS, which was a lifelong dream of mine. I was then selected by the Clinton Climate Initiative, an arm of the Clinton Foundation, as one of two mentees from Jamaica in their 2016-2018 Mentor/Mentee program for Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) Network; I travelled to Aruba for the annual Renewable Energy Conference. I also joined the Women in Energy (WIE) group. I also started working on plans to become a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) in 2017. I am currently working on ways to build on my 2016 achievements.

Life Lesson you live by: “Truth is the only safe ground to stand upon,” by Elizabeth Cady Stanton. I live my life by being true to myself.|ON

ON Magazine |

March 2017

Women In Energy

s l a i n o m i t Tes

What Has Been Your Experience In The Women In Energy Movement?

Althea White

Photography of Kenisha by Phillip Fox; all other photos contributed.

Anna-Kay Toyloy-Ebanks For me personally, 2016 was indeed a breakthrough year.

I was going through a rough patch in life, my marriage was almost in ruins. As much as I loved my husband, there were differences, which needed to be addressed and there seemed to be no solution in sight. God can only work upon a pliable heart that is willing to yield to His will and purpose for our lives. I came to JPS shattered by the journey and worn out by the process.

When we are real with our journeys, we strip the mask and bare it all, because our experiences give power to the weak and healing to the broken. I was inspired and regained my confidence at the Women in Energy 2016 conference.

It is said that nothing beats a wife with a prayer and a plan. After 12 years of marriage, I managed to mend those bridges that seem to be burnt. I am thankful and grateful to our loving Father for bringing me to this forum and transforming my life for the better.

Carmalethia Fagan Living and not knowing your purpose in life is one of the worst things ever that can happen! WIE helped me to discover my purpose, which is to serve.

My mom became pregnant with me when she was 13 yearsold, which led to a challenging childhood for her and in that I also learnt many life lessons. I always knew the universe had something in store for me and I was determined to be successful in life. But, with no one to emulate I was just living and trying to fit in.

WIE taught me to do the things that I fear the most. At work I have stepped out of my comfort zone and delivered service with a difference. I managed to go into the communities, meet our customers and serve them. I was proud to be a part of the Re-imagine JPS movement. WIE has helped me to grow in every area of my life - both professional and personal. I am thankful to have been a part of the vision board sessions and the uplifting WIE sessions; I am sure I will maintain the partnership for years to come. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and will be the only one in my family to achieve this academic goal. It is the birth of a bold, brave and new me.

The Women in Energy Conference, for me, was an excellent and outstandingly inspiring affair and I enjoyed every moment of it.

After the first day I was ‘Powered Up’ and ready to Do Power Differently. The experience was awesome, each speaker provided invaluable advice that resonated with me, and one that I would be able to replicate in my daily life. Rochelle Cameron’s message on knowing yourself, knowing who you are, allowed me to introspect on really who I am. Nsombi Jaja spoke about “Harnessing your Power”, the importance of using your inner power to get the results you want in life.

Fiona Thorpe The Women In Energy Conference is the most motivating and life changing conference I have attended. It was more than a series of workshops, and was more than encouraging speeches. The experience was superb; words cannot explain what this conference has done for my life. The women at the conference touched my life in the most extraordinary way. Kelly in particular, was inspiring, as she continues to be. She is filled with positivity and life, and she awakened the best in me, that had become dormant. I do not think that I have ever met anyone like her. She is a beautiful soul – inside and out.

After the conference ended, I was feeling sad-I had to gather myself somehow. I thought to myself, how can we continue to help and learn from each other as we were inspired to do so in the conference; and that’s how I created the Women In Energy WhatsApp Group.

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March 2017

Personal Energy Management

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here are many people who take care of their physical well-being, but neglect the mental and emotional sides of their health. This a common mistake and is detrimental to our total well-being. Leslie Salmon Jones tells us how important it is to take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. She has dedicated her career to doing so for others.

Born in Canada to Jamaican parents (her father- the first Black Chief of Surgery in Canada and her mother- a Nurse and then later a Metro Councillor in Toronto), Leslie spent a lot of time working with her dad at a young age.

She immediately understood the importance of health and wellbeing.

She went through a period of challenges, and it was then that she decided to rebuild herself through prayer and connecting with things that were aligned with her values. This led her to Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre in New York, where she discovered yoga and the practices of self-care. After completing her undergraduate studies in Health Sciences, she opened her holistic personal training studio where she also did wellness coaching.

A part of her training involved Energy Management., which is learning how to manage your energy instead of your time.

Managing your energy well makes a person more efficient, positive and fulfilled. It also involves aligning aspects of life that are in sync with your core values and living your true purpose.

Personal Energy Management has unknowingly become a growing interest for this generation; given all the issues that we face. If you place importance on

your mental and emotional health, and are keen on keeping negative energy out of your life, then you are a part of this movement of awareness. This is something that is exciting for Leslie because she has been walking the talk of personal energy management and wellbeing for 25 years.

One of the proudest moments of her career, she says, was the start of her practice of Afro Flow Yoga (which is a combination of yoga, dance and live music- co-founded by her husband, Jeff W. Jones, who is a musician), following the passing of her father in 2005. She gained new-found inspiration and appreciation for all the black women who fought for freedom during the days of slavery. The women in her daily life and the ones she interacts with through programs like, The Omega Women’s Leadership Intensive, also serve as a source of inspiration for her.

As a professional dancer, certified holistic personal trainer, wellness coach, yoga instructor, and public speaker, Leslie credits her parents for instilling values that formed the basis of her career and made her the woman she is.

“The best advice I’ve ever gotten was from my parents. They taught us to be true to ourselves, to cultivate our gifts and to be of service to others, always”, she said.

She prides herself on being able to build a bridge between the African diaspora and black teens in America. Through Afro Flow Yoga, young people are learning to appreciate their ancestry and African culture.. Through her coaching and holistic teachings, Leslie Salmon Jones has been transforming (and even saving) lives and helping people live a holistic life.|ON

Photos Contributed; Interviewed by Chrystal Smith

by Leslie Salmon Jones

ON Magazine |

AMBASSADOR

Dr. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, O.D. Shares Her Thoughts

“It’s unfortunate, but from my experience, women struggle with the idea of supporting each other.”

D Photo credit: Leo Hudson Photography

o you think it’s hard for women in positions of power to be taken seriously (by men)? How hard is it for you?

Male athletes will always be seen as more superior. They run faster times and have more popularity and appeal. It’s not about power for SFP, it is simply wanting to command equal respect and appreciation for the effort we give and the contribution us female athletes make towards the sport.

Who are some women that you’ve looked up to in life? There has never been a specific athlete I wanted to emulate. I was just inspired to accomplish things my mother was unable to do after deciding to become a mother and forfeit a career in athletics. Jeanne Coke, my high school sponsor, also made me want to be better.

Were you ever faced with the issue of other women trying to tear you down, in your professional life? I would not say “tear down”, but were rather threatened, as they saw your achievement before they saw YOU, the individual. You were automatically labeled based on your abilities as opposed to your personality.

It’s unfortunate, but from my experience, women struggle with the idea of supporting each other.

How have you dealt with negativity from other women in your life? I never focus on negativity. We are

March 2017

all on different paths in our journey. At some point you have to make the decision to grow up and focus on the positive so as to keep moving forward.

What was the most important lesson you learnt from attending an All-Girl high school? I learnt how to engage and respond positively to women. We are emotional creatures. Our personalities vary and that environment made me aware of the importance of appreciating each other as individuals rather than comparing.

Why did you decide to make the move to become an entrepreneur? Track and field doesn’t last forever. The fact that my mother was resourceful as an entrepreneur was reason enough. Also, being able to give someone else a chance to earn an income by providing employment whilst building Brand SFP warranted the investment.

Is it hard balancing your professional and personal life?

Not at all. Separate and apart from making the necessary public appearances for my sponsors: NIKE, Digicel and Grace Kennedy, I don’t have much of a social life. Outside of competing and training, staying involved in my Waterhouse Community and remaining connected to my church is what I’m about.

Sometimes a date with my husband, Jason can be challenging as a public figure but it comes with the territory.

What important message do you constantly relay to young women in Jamaica? I’ve always believed in having patience. Life is not meant to be rushed. Take the time to identify your personal motivation to become a person of worth. If it’s possible for me, it’s possible for you. Many identify with my story and need to be reminded that it’s ok to dream, then work hard to achieve those dreams.

How important is it for women to be independent and self-sufficient? Growing up with a single mother, I can appreciate the need to hold your own.

However, as I have matured and got married, I learnt to welcome compromise and partnership.

Jason brings tremendous value to the relationship and I am grateful for him.

What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten from another woman? My high school nurse. When I was in 4th form, she caught me galavanting and cautioned me to consider setting an example as she saw leadership potential in me. I dismissed it at the time but over the years it has resonated with me and so I consciously hold myself accountable to being an example.|ON

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7 InLeading Women Jamaica I

t has always been said that ‘behind every great man there’s a great woman’, fortunately, due to the Women’s Movement of the 1960s and 70s, along with various women’s groups dedicated to empowering, uplifting and inspiring females from all walks of life, this statement has become a bit archaic.

Women, over the years have been making strides in all areas of life: from running against strong male personalities on political campaign trails, producing hit records in the music fraternity, to managing gigantic financial institutions; all while raising beautiful families.

Ambassador Audrey Marks

Do you remember having to pay your light bill or you were expecting money from Aunty Cynthia abroad and needed an easy and convenient way to get the job done? Like many Caribbean nationals, Paymaster is the place to go and Audrey Marks is the one to thank. Over time she has extended herself into different fields. She has the pre-eminence of being the only female President of the American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica (AMCHAM), the Chair of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), Deputy Chair of the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), Director of the Board of RBTT Securities Jamaica Limited, Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), and the UWI Mona School of Business, just to name a few.

Audrey was appointed Jamaica’s 13th and first female Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS) in March 2010. She has been the recipient of numerous awards - Florida International University Business Leader of the Year Awards for 2003 and 2010. Attaining both her Bachelors in Management and Masters in Business Administration from the UWI, Mona and Nova University, Florida respectively, Audrey Marks is married to Jassel Dunstan and they have two daughters.

Senator Kamina JohnsonSmith

Being the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is no easy task. Minister JohnsonSmith is used to applying hard work and dedication to whatever she puts her hands to.

An Attorney-at-Law by profession, JohnsonSmith began her political journey by showing a keen interest in governance, education, youth and gender affairs. She has successfully tabled Parliamentary motions such as the reintegration of teen mothers into the formal school system and a revision of laws related to violence against the most vulnerable in our society. In December 2009, Minister Smith was appointed Government Senator, and in January 2012 she served as an Opposition Senator with the responsibility of Opposition Whip. In 2014 she opened her law firm and in February, 2015 was appointed the Spokesperson on Education and Youth. In March 2016, she was appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

Kamina is a graduate of the Norman Manley Law School where she was Valedictorian and the recipient of numerous awards. She has completed professional certificates in Guadeloupe as well as at the Harvard Law School in Boston, Massachusetts.

According to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2015, Jamaica has the highest number of women in top positions in the world leading with a percentage of 59.3. Take a trip with seven female leaders who take on huge responsibilities in their respective fields.

Mariam Robinson

Mrs. Mariam McIntosh Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a Masters in Business Administration from Harvard University, and a Masters in Philosophy in Economics from the Oxford University where she attended as a Rhodes Scholar.

In 2014, Mariam was selected as one of 214 Young Global Leaders due to the tremendous work she has been doing. Mrs. Robinson is a partner at Portland Private Equity (P.P.E) where she leads the Fund’s due diligence process along with the day to day portfolio which includes monitoring activities for related transactions. For 8 years she worked as a Strategy Consultant with McKinsey and Company and Bain and Company. Her portfolio included advising CEOs and their teams on growth, strategy and operations.

In addition to her successful academic achievements, Mariam founded the educational non-profit organization TEACH Caribbean.

The organization is geared towards improving access to quality education for financially disadvantaged youth in rural Jamaica. She is currently the President and CEO of First Global Bank.

ON Magazine |

Portia Simpson-Miller

It is not strange to see Portia Simpson-Miller walking the streets of Jamaica hugging and kissing most persons with whom she comes into contact.

Affectionately called ‘Sista P’ or ‘Mama P’, SimpsonMiller began her political journey in the 1970s and has been a force to reckon with ever since. She has served in numerous government capacities during her tenure including the country’s highest office, as the first female Prime Minister. Currently, the Leader of the Opposition and President of the People’s National Party (PNP), she has held the posts of Minister of Defence, Development, Information and Sports. In

Rochelle Cameron

Her broad smile and down to earth persona is something that is quite admirable of Rochelle Cameron. Being in the media for quite some time, Cameron is Cable & Wireless Communications’ Vice President Legal and Regulatory for Jamaica, Cayman and Trinidad and Tobago as of August 2015. She is also the Company Secretary since August 2014 and has served as Head of Legal & Regulatory, LIME - North. A past student of the Campion College, she attained her LLB from the University of the West Indies, Mona and her Certificate of Legal Education at the Norman Manley Law School where she was also Valedictorian for her class. Cameron also has a Masters degree in Business Administration.

An interview from the Jamaica Observer’s All Woman on October 13, 2014, was enough to make readers want to become friends with Rochelle. She spoke of her unusual middle name, Bunmi, stating the origin as Yoruban which means “my gift or God gave me”. She is not shy when speaking on her days spent as a child in St. Mary. Cameron made mention of two influential women in her life, her grandmother and mother.

Juliet Holness

March 2017

addition, Mama P also had the responsibilities of labour, social security, tourism and local government.

Portia holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration, certificates in Public Relations and Advanced Management from the Union Institute and University of Cincinnati, Ohio. She was also awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by the Union Institute, a Honorary Doctorate of Public Service from the Northern Caribbean University, ranked by Time Magazine as one of its 100 Most influential Persons in the World and Person of the Year by The Gleaner in 2011. Simpson-Miller sits as a member of the Council of Women World Leaders.

It is simply not enough to be the Prime Minister’s wife. Juliet Holness, a trained accountant and real estate developer, has since 2015 expressed great interest in serving her country politically. Born in St. Catherine, Mrs. Holness attended the St. Catherine High School but completed her studies at the Wolmer’s Trust High School for Girls. She further went on to the UWI where she attained her Bachelors of Science in Accounting and Economics and a Master of Science in Accounting. She has served in many capacities such as Senior Manager at PriceWaterhouse Coopers and was a member of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants in the United Kingdom where she became a Fellow of that body.

In 2011, she established the Save Our Boys Foundation which targets troubled young men who have found solace in the streets of the Corporate Area. Mrs. Holness, in 2015, announced her interest to enter politics.

Since then she has been making strides. She contested for Member of Parliament for the East Rural St. Andrew seat in the 2016 general election, and won. Mrs. Holness is mother to two young boys.

Jacqueline T. Sharp

Mrs. Jacqueline T. Sharp is the first ever female President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Scotia Group in Jamaica. Married with two children, the past student of the Campion College holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honours in Accounting, from the UWI, has a Chartered Financial Analyst (C.F.A) designation, and has successfully completed the Certified Public Accountant (C.P.A) exams.

Her journey began in 1997 when she joined the Scotia Group and has worked in various capacities since then. She held senior roles in the areas of treasury, finance, private banking and insurance. In 2001 she became the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrator with responsibility for financial and regulatory reporting, financial risk management, strategic planning, legal compliance and oversight of the Systems Control Centre for Scotia Group. However, it was not until September 1, 2013 that she took the position of President and CEO of the financial institution.

Mrs. Sharp serves as a member of the Boards of Scotia Asset Management Jamaica Limited and Scotia MicroFinance Company Limited and Chair of the Board of Trustees of Scotiabank Jamaica’s Pension Plan. She also serves as the treasurer of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ).|ON

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When your gift finds you

By Audrey Williams

need to be taught to achieve the same results.

Does that mean that every gift is to be considered as seed for commercial enterprise? I will leave that conclusion to you, but I can’t see why not. While you ponder, remember too that, “a man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.”

How nice. If your gift makes room for you, you need not fight another soul in claiming your right to be here and to excel. No more than the stars in the sky need to fight each other for space to twinkle – for there is enough sky for all of them to shine exquisitely. So too, we may enjoy the room supplied by our gifts – without fights and trauma – and we may even encourage the gifts of others, without feeling threatened or oppressed.

So when your gift finds you, embrace it. You need not fear it, nor sideline it for ‘safer’ activities. We can embrace it with joy and great expectation – knowing that when your gift finds you, the worse that can happen, is genuine fulfillment. |ON

I

t’s nothing short of incredible to be able to do something effortlessly and excellently at the same time. You may not even realize you’re being excellent, until someone says “Oh my, that’s fantastic! How long did it take you to come up with that?” And you are almost embarrassed to admit that what they thought was hours of dedicated work, was really a blast of inspiration or a 15-minute job for you. It came to you naturally. Because it is your gift.

Everyone has a gift – at least one – and some are blessed with several. I once met a youngster who told me that he didn’t have a gift. “How peculiar,” I thought.

I proceeded to pepper him with a list of ‘gift-finding’ questions: What are you good at? What do you like? What comes easily to you? But he could find naught to say. However I have since learned a trick: some gifts are hiding in plain sight.

The gift may feel so ‘common’ or may not receive ratings or prestige, that it is not perceived as a gift. Then there are others that are buried below the surface, likely to spring forth under the right circumstances and with proper nurturing.

Take for instance that imaginative child, who pours out unending tales – may this not be the early shaping of a talent for long stories, or in modern speech – novel writing? But perhaps that example is too obvious. Let’s go with something else... That ability to make the downcast laugh, with exertion on your part, or to inspire hope with minimal effort – is marketed by many to great profit - via comedy, motivational speech, life coaching and a host of other professions.

One should never take the fact that they can cook delightfully without having been trained, for granted, or that they can coordinate colours and styles in a way that others

ON Magazine |

March 2017

Get Ready For JPS TV Coming To A JPS Office Near You!

by Shaneika Lee

S

o the last time we shared with you how a regular PowerPoint presentation was morphed into the greatest TV show not yet seen on TV. Yes, our in-house webcast affectionately dubbed, “In Di Loop” has been a big hit – educating and entertaining JPS employees over the past few years. Well brace yourselves because the media landscape is going to get a little bit more exciting, as we have great news!

So, do you like watching TV? Do you have a favourite TV station? Well if you don’t, get ready to become discriminatory because in March 2017, your new flex will be all that matters while your “ex” will be kicked to the curb. Yes, your ex-tv station will be forgotten when JPS TV enters your life!

JPS TV will be the station to watch. On this channel you will get the scoop on the information you need to do business with us, learn more about our products and services and entertain yourself when you delve a little bit further into the lives of our employees.

We are going to let you see how we have fun!

Starting in March, JPS TV will roll-out on our digital screens in 6 offices across the island. The roll-out will continue in phases throughout 2017 and by 2018, you should have your favourite tv station - JPS TV -in your JPS office for your viewing pleasure. Now visiting our offices is going to be so much more exciting. You might find that once you start watching you might not want to leave!

Yes, it’s going to be that addictive! So are you ready? It all starts in March 2017! It’s JPS TV! Stay tuned!|ON

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THE JPS CUSTOMER

Experience “I love JPS!”

by Gina Tomlinson-Williams

“...our customers not only appreciate what we do but love us for doing it.”

T

Initially, our customers complained about the quality of service in our offices and in the field – the lack of courtesy, knowledge of the business and customer service. This was immediately addressed through a multi-faceted approach: • Customer Service Managers placed in each parish • Culture of Service training for all front-line and field service staff • Orientation in Customer Service for new employees • Monitoring, Reward and Recognition The formation of a Customer Experience Department was critical to spearhead these initiatives, and the results speak for themselves: an increase in customer satisfaction from 22% in 2012 to 68% in 2015 - a 300% increase in only 3 years. But we haven’t stopped there…

Despite the increased satisfaction with service delivery, the overall satisfaction each year remained lower than expected, so we drilled down and found that our customers did not feel valued by the company: ”I’m forced to stick to policies that don’t meet my situation”…”I’ve been a loyal customer for years and yet I’m not treated any differently”.

We couldn’t ignore these voices, so in 2014 we introduced Jamaica to Prepaid Electricity or Pay As You Go. To date almost 2,000 customers have signed up to this revolutionary product, saving an average of 25% on their bills, with evidence that the longer you use it, the more you save. The convenience, affordability and ease of access to top-up locations has led to customers giving testimonials and referring others without any incentive from the company!

Additionally, in 2015, we implemented the first Customer Loyalty Programme for an electric utility in the Caribbean – MyJPS Rewards. We partnered with our business customers to provide discounts to our residential customers, in return for free advertising. This partnership and reward mechanisms allow us to add value to each customer segment without disenfranchising the other – a win-win situation for everyone.

In 2017 we are poised for an islandwide launch of MyJPS Rewards, outage communication via sms and self-service kiosks in our Parish Offices. With customer satisfaction now at 87%, I am sure that many customers are now saying…“I love JPS!” |ON

Gina Tomlinson-Williams, Head of Customer Experience

(l-r) Sophia Lambert (Support Agent), Shadae Bernard (Customer Experience Agent), Courtney Whyte (Quality Analyst), Charmaine Campbell (Projects and Logistics Manager, MyJPS Rewards)

(l-r) Cecile McCormack (Projects and Logistics Manager, PAYG) and Allison Haynes-Laraque (Customer Experience Officer)

(l-r) Sasha-Gaye Fraser (Customer Experience Agent), Levor DaCosta (Research Analyst) and Tisona Johnson (Customer Experience Agent)

Contributed photos from Yorkali Walters of The Imajination.

hese words are what I have dreamed of hearing from customers since joining the company several years ago. These words mean that the work of 1,700 energy experts did not go in vain each day, and our customers not only appreciate what we do, but love us for doing it.

Customer Service at JPS has evolved – especially over the past 4 years - in so many ways; the company has moved from the light and power company to the country’s major energy partner. This is rooted in a change in the vision, mission and culture of the organization that is embracing the customer more every day. This did not happen overnight and is still evolving every day but what is consistent is the increasing desire to listen to the voices of our customers.

JPS customers are among the most surveyed groups in the country, according to the JaCSA/PSOJ Service Excellence Awards committee in their 2016 assessment of private sector companies. In fact, JPS received the top award in 2016 for Customer Service Monitoring and Surveys, ahead of several other private sector companies. So what have our customers been saying - and importantly – have we been listening?

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The Clean & Green Jamaica O

ver the last few years, the people of Jamaica have seen JPS spearhead a number of initiatives to complement a thrust for more efficient energy-friendly practices. A few such examples are the JPS E-Bill, the Smart City Project (notice the lights in New Kingston corridor recently?) and their E-Store. The ‘Re-Imagine Energy’ Campaign has provided a platform for the public to be excited about how these and other endeavours have started changing our daily lives and speaks to what a “re-imagined energy future will hold.”

To continue this conversation, Vice-President, Legal & Compliance, Katherine Francis sat down with me to talk about the JPS initiative she is leading for 2017 called ‘Clean & Green’.

When I asked her what this initiative would mean for Jamaica, Katherine stated taking care of our environment and the country’s natural resources is the responsibility of every individual and each organization alike. From this outlook, she said that by the Clean & Green initiative, JPS is simply continuing to play its part in this regard.

Katherine explained that although JPS in its 93 year history of providing electricity to Jamaica, had some of the oldest industrial oil based units on the island, the Company works hard to abide by the environmental regulations and to maintain a positive working relationship with the regulating bodies. Ideally, the utility company would like to significantly reduce its carbon footprint on the Island but recognizes that this cannot practically be achieved in the short term without significant costs to the rate payers. So the Company does what it can – increasing the use of renewables through building its own wind farm at Munro as well as adding capacity to the Maggotty Hydro Power Plant in 2014. This is also achieved in ensuring that the required monitoring of emissions from existing operating locations is done in compliance with the Air Quality Regulations and gradually making other smaller changes when possible. The elimination of internally generated waste is also a focus of the Company – so programs such as the disposal of electronic waste, the establishment of recycling collection centres and the rigorous management of its industrial waste are just a few of the initiatives undertaken by the Company in recent times.

Over the last few years (largely since privitization), JPS has participated in varying environmental projects and partnerships alike.

These include, the annual beach clean-up initiative to coincide with the International Coastal Clean-Up Day, annual tree planting of varying types of trees at specific JPS properties across the island as well some

Interview with Katherine Francis

schools and by participating in the Ministry of Agriculture’s Forestry

Department re-forestation exercise.

One major project for 2017, will place great emphasis on the Company’s approximately 1700 employees. Katherine, sees herself and her colleagues as 1700 potential environmental ambassadors who individually both at home and work can begin spreading positive environmental practices thereby changing lives through its energy. She hopes that the “Spic & Span – Full 100!” Project launched by her Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) team working together with Marketing will ensure that each location is “Clean & Green”! So to be Spic & Span, your location must be ‘housekeeping healthy, safe, branded and attractive.

Katherine spoke proudly of the Bogue Power Plant transformation and the role her team members played in bringing a cleaner fuel source safely to Jamaica! She sees this as an example of the way forward for the energy sector in fuel diversification and the Company’s commitment to the growth and prosperity of Jamaica.

In closing, Katherine spoke of the importance of JPS in powering the nation while maintaining the delicate balance between greater efficiency and providing the best possible results for its stakeholders, customers and generations to come. She spoke of the evolution of JPS over the decades; rising to the occasion of consistently seeking to provide a quality of service to be proud of and becoming the utility to emulate in the Caribbean. It is without a doubt that JPS sees itself as leading an energy revolution to build hope for the nation. So this Woman in Energy says “Power-On Jamaica and remember Clean & Green to di max!”

“ ...taking care of our environment and the Country’s natural resources is the responsibility of every individual and each organization alike.”

Katherine is the Vice-President-Legal & Compliance, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary of JPS & has oversight for the Legal, Easement, Claims and HSE Departments.

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3 Things women can do to be Trailblazing Leaders

day. Seek out growth opportunities for yourself, your people and your organisation. Back down from challenges only if they compromise your integrity. I have learnt over and over again in my life that it is okay to take risks as it just might be worth it and may pay off in the end.

As leaders we do not get it right everyday but we have a responsibility to our teams and to ourselves to always put our best stilettoes forward.|ON

Doing it all?

T Yes we can!

We all can!!

by Nicole Campbell

here was a stream of consciousness as I reflected on today’s parent teacher meeting – because you hear it all the time that women can’t have it all or do it all. So here’s what I do - I have made my family a priority and organized everything else accordingly. If there’s a gymnastics competition or recital or school play then I put it in my calendar and everything falls around that.

I keep my weekends for my family except in super crunch season at AIM Educational Services when it gets so demanding that a half-a-day Saturday might get compromised. Or when we are launching a new class and have a one hour long Sunday meeting. When I had to miss my children’s Heritage school show for a Board Meeting I was very sad – these things are so important to me. It’s important for them to be secure in the knowledge that no matter how busy I am and despite what I’m doing they are Number One. If it comes to making a choice, I will let go of whatever opportunities that might come my way for the happiness of my family; for without the family I don’t want to do anything else.

Without revealing Sasco’s (my husband’s) personal

business … I am there if and when he needs me. I try to do things for him and support him as much as possible, so much that he has made me his assistant.

Sometimes I am tired, and am tempted to go to sleep instead of going out on a date, but I do because I know that this relationship is basically the foundation of my world. It’s what makes a happy home for my children. It’s my safe place. My joy and security too.

We’ve started to have dinner together, at home, as a family, thanks to excellent advice from an older friend of mine.

I’ve learned that if you establish your priorities according to what you value most and organize yourself accordingly, then you can invest where it matters most; and in the process build a fulfilling career and be fit and fabulous too!

Yes we can! We all can!!|ON

Photo courtesy of Nicole Campbell

I

think I was born to lead. I was born to inspire, to motivate, to love. In my professional life I have been in leadership capacities for ten years and it has been quite a journey, a real eye opener, something like a love affair where you laugh and cry, happy most days and sad on some.

Through it all I have not lost myself which for me has been the most important thing. I think that as women, as professionals, there are some critical things that we can do to ensure we are trailblazing leaders.

Firstly, lead with heart. As leaders we are in the ideal position to put people first and to put compassion, love and conviction back in the workplace. Your employees will love you for it and their response will be increased creativity and productivity.

Secondly, speak up and contribute. If you have something of value to add, make your voice heard. You have worked hard and have earned your seat at the table. Never play small.

Finally, be fearless. This is one that I am learning to do every

Photo by Craig Harley

by Shanique Donaldson

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Execution Excellence “If you are working on something exciting that you really care about, you don’t have to be pushed. The vision pulls you.”- Steve Jobs

Photo contributed.

Gary Barrow, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of JPS has a vision of excellence for his company and strongly believes that he has been “called upon in a deeper way for a purpose.”

“Where I am at this stage, is to see how that purpose can help to make Jamaica a better place,” says Barrow.

Barrow sees his function as CTO as the platform granted to him, for fulfilling his calling of making a contribution to the growth and development of Jamaica. His efforts as a professional is melded with his desire to empower the leaders of this generation and generations to come.

When he first became a part of the team at JPS he was driven by a number of objectives. Initially it was moving the company from existing within the confines of the monopoly legacy and one that did not enjoy high public confidence.

He said his team found it necessary to put some plans in place which included mechanisms to support all the growth related endeavors and systematic changes.

These were the logistics and mechanics which would both positively impact the productivity of the company regarding profits and efficiency; but also bringing the company to a place where surveys could indicate improvements in public sentiments.

“It is quite easy to see where something is broken to fix it- we dealt with that part, which can be considered the easy part,” he said. “We are now at the point where we have to distinguish the good from the great. As we seek to contribute to economic growth, prosperity and providing a better life for Jamaicans.”

Barrow informed that his first objective has been the building of leadership capabilities that will move the team at JPS from “…okay leaders, to great leaders”.

Every discussion or interaction shared between him and his team, he says, usually ties in to how the capabilities of the team can be built upon.

The driving force behind “Execution Excellence” is an intention

“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters.

Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.”

of the company to build a smart grid. “If you ask what my biggest passion is right now- I’d say it is the building of a smart city, and we are working in the New Kingston area,” he said.

“That was my brainchild because I believe that while social change is typically slow, technology can be disruptive. Left on its own without the interruption of technology as an enzyme, these social changes really tend to be very slow.”

The application of technology, he believes, can leapfrog and accelerate economic growth. One may note parallels when looking at Singapore and Barcelona, the link between their economic growth,“smart approaches” and technological advancements.

New Kingston is now in the process of becoming ‘smart’.

Since October 2016, LED lights are lighting the public spaces.

Apart from impacting criminal activity, it facilitates greater productivity and creates a more comfortable space for recreation - where people can go for a walk or work late with less the concern for their safety.

Other projects include the smart meters, intelligent/ coordinated traffic lights, and traffic indicators. Gary said,“We are making arrangements with a vendor for a smart parking application. Sensors would be installed on street lights etc., and the application would allow motorists, through the use of smart phone and or GPS, to see and access available parking and detect areas of traffic congestion. This application is scheduled to be launched this year.”

Five years ago, Barrow was working in the energy sector in Trinidad and Tobago - he has now been a part of the team at JPS for

Gary is a lover of music and plays many musical instruments including the keyboard, rhythm guitar, bass guitar and more. Plus we discovered he has “...a little quirk”- he collects vintage amplifiers- and enjoys pulling them down and reconstructing them, which gets him in what one could call a “zen mode”.

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Gary is also a mountain biker and enjoys riding through the hillsides with his team or solo.

four and a half years. “Where I am today, I think my vision is much larger than it used to be. I feel that I am maturing into really serving my purpose. Everything I did from that point of change to now, was preparing me for what I am doing right now.”

The work carried out by Barrow and his team, requires a great amount of energyphysical, mental and spiritual. Barrow says that he gets a lot of satisfaction out of seeing leaders grow.

He is of the opinion that execution requires courage and being bold in the midst of opposition.

“You will find that Execution Excellence is an interaction, not just of systems, but of people, processes, of operations and strategies- it is a delicate interaction of all those variables.”

All of these efforts will allow Barrow and his team to continue to enshrine the principle of Execution Excellence into the company’s culture to facilitate further growth, and ultimately bask in the fulfillment of executing the objectives set out for further growth and development not only for JPS, but for Jamaica.

“Execution Excellence is an important part of where we really want to take JPS,” Barrow said. “It is an important ingredient in the recipe of moving forward, as we get closer to being one of the most desirable companies to work with, one of the most loved companies, standing out as a shining example.”|ON

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March 2017

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March 2017

TANIA MCDONALD TOMLINSON

I remember someone once saying that, “you are only a great leader if your team follows you, otherwise you are just out for a walk.” A great leader realizes that no one is perfect and that it is their duty to give the team they create opportunities for them to grow.

My brand of leadership has always been to provide support and encouragement, mixed in with some humour. A listening leader who is in the moment and paying attention is invaluable. One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received is never to give someone something to do that you would never do yourself. Therefore, a great leader is also one who leads by example, and if necessary, gets into the trenches with the team. In my estimation, integrity and trustworthiness are the pillars of any decent human being, so those characteristics should be a part of a great leader. Balance and fairness in all a leader does, as well as the ability to effectively communicate, rounds out my idea of what makes a great leader.

DONNELLE WATSON BANKS

There are so many qualities that have to converge in the right proportions to make a great leader. In my opinion, at the essence of all of the qualities that a great leader should possess is to know himself or herself. They self-analyse and self-observe consistently to ensure they are self-aware and honest about who they are. This is what drives other important leadership qualities such as authenticity, integrity, confidence, courage, humility, vulnerability and passion.

A great leader should have the vision and more importantly, should to be able to clearly articulate that vision. This is critical to inspire and earn the respect of those around them (not just their team), it is also important to get people emotionally connected and ultimately get the best from them.

Some other key attributes that I think make a great leader are: discipline, open-mindedness, being able to make tough decisions, being personable, being accountable, being timely and being committed to the empowerment of their team. All these characteristics need to blend seamlessly to create a leader who not just comes across as great, but one who is also very effective.

CAMILLE ROWE

If I could find a single sentence to summarize what I believe makes a great leader, it would be the title of a Forbes article published on November 21, 2016 - “Great Leaders Replace Themselves with Great Leaders”. But, what does this really mean?

Great leaders inspire others to become great leaders themselves, which is critical to succession planning. To do this, they must think beyond themselves and be committed to a common purpose otherwise, they would be in a protectionist mode – that is, protection of self. If one believes in the cause that one is leading, it wouldn’t matter who achieves the goals; as long as they are achieved. Also, great leaders are not obsessed with their position and power – the motive is not to be recognized as someone great, but to be recognised as a great leader, or as Barack Obama once said - “great leaders serve a cause greater than themselves.”

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Director by Tricia Williamson

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LEISA BATISTE WHITE

Margaret Mead once said that we should, ”never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.”

My thoughts on ”What makes a great leader” are influenced by her words. A great leader is one who has a vision for a better state of affairs - one who is not afraid of being the only one with that thought of making a difference or fearful of the journey to get to the goal. A great leader recognises and acknowledges that he/she must be agitated and brave enough to step out and become that change that he/she wishes to see. A great leader also needs to have the ability to rally the troops to not only share in their vision and support the mission but to inspire them to listen and answer their own inner calls and ignite their own inner fires.

A great leader inspires the team to be the best by providing feedback, counsel and guidance, and knowing that in every individual is a gem waiting to be unearthed.

As another of my favourite quote says, ”You pass this way but once, so make it count!.“ So we as leaders must make our legacies count!

“A great leader is one who has a vision for a better state of affairs - one who is not afraid of being the only one with that thought of making a difference or fearful of the journey to get to the goal.”

T’SHURA GIBBS

A great leader is defined in many ways and embodies a number of key attributes. All uniquely different great leaders tend to share certain fundamental characteristics, which include a vision for the organization and being able to communicate to their team, clearly and succinctly.

A great leader is bold when necessary; a calculated risk taker who

understands and fully embraces the organization’s vision. He or she creates a great team by garnering trust through his or her words and respect by his or her actions. A great leader knows when to be strategic and when to dive into the details and understand the intricacies that so often mark the difference between good and great outcomes.

They understand their people and constantly seek and create opportunities for them to grow. Great leaders challenge their team to stretch, counsel them when there are lessons to be learnt and rewards outstanding contributions. They inspire, invigorate and motivate.

A great leader is one who aligns their actions and target the outcomes of their teams with those of the enterprise, whether profit oriented, efficiency driven or service based. They lead with passion and purpose.

Furthermore great leaders know themselves, where they are going and have charted a course to achieve their objectives and that of their team.|ON

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Modelling

Leadership

In 2016, KPMG’s Women Leadership Study found that: “a majority of women aspire to hold top roles, but find it difficult to see themselves as leaders.”

We asked our amazing group of energy experts to share their views based on their personal journey as leading energy experts in male dominated fields. The views expressed were in response to one of the following themes: Modelling Leadership, The Path to Female Leadership and A Commitment To Moving More Women Forward.

ON Magazine |

THE PATH TO FEMALE LEADERSHIP

AVA TOMLIN Regional Director, BMR Energy

The trajectory for a female to be in a leadership role commences long before collegiate years. My path to leadership was certainly shaped by my early influences, self-perception and perspective of the role of relationships in career development. I have spent most of my professional life in male dominated industries. Here is my story.

My father could not afford to go to college, so education was important in our household - we were all going to earn a degree- and it had to be a “profession.” So off I went to the University of the West Indies, and came back bright-eyed, bushy- tailed with my newly minted degree in engineering. Life would now fall into place (so I had been told.) I imagined that I would enjoy rapid professional progression, have a husband and children along the way, and retire at 40. It wasn’t that simple.

Added to that misperception was that I was also painfully shy; I feared offering my opinion unless I had the “the answer,” and I certainly wasn’t going to ask questions publicly and appear ignorant, stupid even.

Worse, I felt it inappropriate to mention my accomplishments - that would be boasting. Then came another great influencer - thanks to the Simon Graduate School of Business, I appreciate the value of the elevator pitch, networking, and numerous other non-textbook empowering strategies. My formal education opened doors for me but that by itself is insufficient to get you to the C- Suite.

My approach to leadership continues to be influenced by my experiences. It is okay to NOT KNOW, its human – in fact the question might be more important than the answer. Relationships are important – just be genuine. It is ok to say what you bring to the table, what it is that you actually want. I am now aware of myself as a leader – competent, comfortable and confident - I know who I am and what I want, and what makes me sleep comfortably at night.

“ It is okay to NOT KNOW, its human - in fact the question might be more important that the answer.”

DIONNE NUGENT Head of New Generation Projects, JPS

As I reflect on my trajectory to leadership in this male-dominated sector, it certainly started from my childhood where in my family, leadership and independent thought were encouraged and nurtured. I took a bold decision as a young girl in primary school to become an engineer, though the boys thought I was out of my league.

Along the journey there was academic success and professional opportunities but my leadership realization was linked to key influencers and role models who fostered the possibility of “greater levels of leadership”.

These persons included my parents and sister, church family, coworkers and leaders. These inspirational connections and influencers made undertaking each rung of the leadership ladder a little easier. I firmly believe that great leadership is defined by the persons around you on the upward journey, the negative influencers instill ‘personal determination’ and the

March 2017

positive influencers inspire ‘passion and commitment’. These connections are critical to determining the type of leader that you finally become.

Ultimately I believe, “The heart of the leader is a channel of water controlled by God; He directs it to whatever ends he chooses” (Prov. 21:1).

“I took a bold decision as a young girl in primary school to become an engineer, though the boys thought I was out of my league.”

MODELLING LEADERSHIP

ODETH REYNOLDS

VP Human Resources and Environmental Health & Safety, Jamaica Energy Partners

Confidence is a critical trait for leadership and a globally accepted trait that defines great leaders as confidence builders. The findings from the KPMG’s Women leadership study resonates strongly with my transition to leadership. My confidence that helped facilitate my journey to the C-Suite was built and not innate. This was achieved through a process of mentorship, challenging assignments outside my initial scope and support from a network of women and men who have lifted me up.

In my initial years at school, I was always vocal and thought that I could do anything, if the teacher asked who could dance, sing or paint my hands would go up as a signal of my confidence. I was viewed as participative, expressive, witty and intelligent, however, I was never volunteered for leadership roles as form prefect or captain. For years I thought of myself as average, though I was always among the top five in my class.

When I was at the University of the West Indies I had two lecturers and a life coach/mentor who made tremendous impact on my life and career. Dr. Carolyn Cooper, author and literary scholar always encouraged her students to write and speak with strength and conviction as this was necessary to engage the audience and confidence in our delivery. She always encouraged looking at things from a different point of view as she believed it enriched the experience and that’s how creativity and selfexpression are developed. I once wrote an essay on gender relations and thought it was a clear A, I delivered the paper before the due date, Dr. Cooper called me into her office and asked me to rewrite my paper. She said it was an answer for another question but she liked the fact that I wrote with substance and deep conviction. Though my ego was deflated her words motivated me to rewrite an A paper for the right question. Lesson learnt, over-confidence can lead to failure.

My mentor on campus was Dr. Sandra Swaby who pulled me into a network of women who were successful, encouraging and nurturing. I

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learnt that demonstration of confidence and a winning attitude did not mean I had to be competitive and try to outshine others but to help others to be the best that we all could be. I was always encouraged to do whatever I did to the best of my ability and to challenge myself to make my ceiling my floor and through personal growth both on the job and in my personal life my confidence and leadership capabilities would grow.

“Confidence is a critical trait for leadership and a globally accepted trait that defines great leaders as confidence builders.”

INGRID CHRISTIAN BAKER General Manager, Jamaica Private Power Company

In general, women today are more highly qualified than ever before.

Yet in most organizations, there are still more men in upper management positions. In the book, The Confidence Code, it is purported that women’s own self-doubt holds them back more than any sexism which exists in the workplace. If this is to be believed, then the onus is on us, as women, to engender an environment which encourages women to improve their levels of confidence, so that they can focus on excelling at levels which match their education and abilities.

Some women have been successful at acquiring the top jobs or jobs close enough to the top in large companies. They are examples and role models for others to follow and of this, they need to be aware and act accordingly.

There also exists a certain level of responsibility to reach out to others. Recognizing that a word of encouragement to a sister could mean the difference in successfully assuming and completing an assignment, or refusing to accept that challenge which has the potential to propel her career forward. In social settings, some women are shy and introverted and it would do a world of difference to them to be sought out by a successful woman for a conversation. I have proven that supporting and at times “firmly encouraging” female staff members to attend specific programmes geared to increasing confidence and teaching networking skills, have assisted in reducing the levels of self-doubt which hold back so many of us.

I am not asking for women to start behaving like men, but simply to be assisted in increasing their confidence levels to match their abilities.

“Recognizing that a word of encouragement to a sister could mean the difference in successfully assuming and completing an assignment, or refusing to accepting that challenge which has the potential to propel her career forward.”

A COMMITMENT TO MOVING MORE WOMEN FORWARD

HILLARY ALEXANDER Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology

Believe me – no one is a true leader, until you have helped to create and inspire others to become leaders in their own right!

The charge for each one of us, as leaders in a corporate setting or for that matter in EVERY setting - is to mentor, coach, support and to take purposeful steps to cultivate women leaders. That means, exposing women to all areas of your business, your network, openly sharing knowledge and information, creating an environment where ideas can flourish, where different views or perspectives on issues are encouraged to produce better solutions, and in these ways, building their confidence.

This means creating an environment where innovation and good work are valued and celebrated, where women are encouraged to try new areas outside of their perceived “comfort zone” and so, remove limiting beliefs that may hold them back from realizing their full potential. And it means investing in training, both professional and leadership training, for highperforming women. That’s how we can each create a new wave of exceptional women leaders.

I had that as a young professional and I am totally committed to paying that forward. Not only does this approach help to create insightful, purposeful, empowered and inspirational leaders, but the return on that investment in women, in particular, is incalculable.

Of course, clear core values are important, too, in our words and in our actions. For us they are - Integrity; mutual respect; teamwork; professionalism; a commitment to excellent service and one of my favorites – a sense of humour – that innate ability to laugh at oneself and situations, to keep going and to take little or nothing personally.|ON

“Believe me no one is a true leader, until you have helped to create and inspire others to become leaders in their own right!”

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Full Name: Keith Garvey Job title: Vice President Department/Division: Customer Service & Communications Years in the Company: 4.5 years

What has been your proudest moment at JPS so far?

My proudest moment at JPS to date is to have witnessed our Customer Satisfaction ratings that had a 2016 target of 75% achieve the target of 87%. This is a huge improvement coming from 22% in 2012.

This tremendous accomplishment for the company reflects the hard work and dedication of our teams to execute and improve the way we serve our valued customers islandwide. My personal passion is that of service and to be a part of a team that serves its customers with commitment. Creating positive experiences and delivering better service to our customers gives me great joy. We will continue to be better in 2017; our year of Execution Excellence.

Best life advice you’ve ever gotten? “Start and complete your

first degree” The former headmaster of my High School actively encouraged and involved himself in the process for me to sign up and complete enrollment to attend University after I finished my secondary education; advice that I am forever grateful for.

How important is giving back to your community? Giving back is very important to me and reflects one of the values that I embrace that we should be our “brother’s keeper.”

What is the one thing you love most about working with the women of JPS? One thing I love about working with

the women of JPS is to be able to interact with women who are talented and diverse. They are all big on closure and high on service delivery. I personally find that they are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure quality work is produced. They are committed to the organization’s cause, vision, goals and objectives that we all aspire to achieve as a whole.

Full Name: Marvin Campbell Job title: Regional Director - East Department/Division: Energy Delivery & Energy Solutions Years in the Company: 19 years

What has been your proudest moment at JPS so far?

Electricity is considered an essential service and a constant supply of power is critical for us to function in our daily lives. The disconnection of services for non-payment has been a major concern of many of our customers.

Based on our annual Customer Satisfaction Survey, the disconnection for non-payment has been the leading cause of dissatisfaction for our Customers.

So in 2015 we decided to change our collections policy and launched a regional “Keeping Customers Connected” pilot project, where the aim was to ensure that the customers remained connected. This required a change in the strategy and mindset of our Customer Service and Collections team, where disconnection of the services was no longer an option, and was not used as the strategy to get customers to pay their outstanding bills. Based on the success of the pilot an all island launch was done in 2016 under the strategic theme: Keeping Our Customers Happy, this led to an unprecedented over 30% reduction in disconnection in 2016 vs 2015 while still achieving our collections target. There was also a simultaneous increase in our Customer Satisfaction index.

Best life advice you’ve ever gotten? The best advice was to always strive to think positively.

What is the one thing you love most about working with the women of JPS? I love their passion for creativity. The women of JPS are never satisfied or accepting of the traditional ways of doing things even if it’s working and so this has led to new insights on how to approach different challenges and has created several innovative solutions. At times I personally may not be able to visualize the outcome but I’ve learned to trust them and not limit my mind to what I see around me.

ON Magazine |

Full Name: Roger Kennedy Job title: Director – Region Central Department/Division: Energy Delivery And Energy Services Years in the Company: 24

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Director by Tricia Williamson; Lighting: Adrian Creary

What has been your proudest moment at JPS so far?

Ironically, my proudest moment at JPS was not solving a technical issue or delivering on an Engineering project, but rather having the opportunity to significantly impact the lives of over 55 students at the York Town Basic School in Clarendon. The York Town Basic School was chosen by the JPS Foundation as the model school for Region Central. The school was without electricity for over 40 years. The staff volunteered their time, expertise and finances, to extend 500 meters of electrical line to supply the school as well as provide the electrical wiring of the building. Of all the things I have done at JPS I am most proud of this project.

Best life advice you’ve ever gotten? I had the honor of growing up and spending time with my grandmother (Mama Ken), who always talked to her grandchildren on the virtues of life. She always emphasized that we should “have the courage to live a life true to ourselves, and not the life others expect of you.” I still hold true to Mama Ken’s advice, and this has guided me through life’s journey thus far.

How important is giving back to your community to you? Do you engage in any such activities? Allocating my time and resources to those less fortunate in the community where I live and work gives me a sense of purpose.

What is the one thing you love most about working with the women of JPS? That would be their enthusiasm to a task once there is buy-in and an appreciated understanding of the expected results.

Such enthusiasm is infectious and has reaped a high level of positivity within the company. One fine example is the Women In Energy initiative.

March 2017

Full Name: Rasheed Anderson Job title: Parish Manager – St. James and Hanover Department/Division: Region West Years in the Company: 3.5

What has been your proudest moment at JPS so far?

The proudest moment at JPS so far was to hear a JPS customer share their experience – “T’Shura, good evening. I have been trying to call you from last evening but each time I pick up the phone I could not find the correct words.

I got a call and a subsequent visit from Rasheed about 6:30 pm yesterday. He handed me a bag and said” these are for you “ He apologized for the fish we lost on Sunday and when I looked in the bag there were two koi the exact kind of fish we raise. He left and Ian and I went to put the fish in the pond with the others. All the while I am crying. Outside of my family no one has done anything this nice and kind for or to me. There is hope for Jamaica, we do still have good men.”

This was an important moment for me because it highlighted one of the lowest periods in my working experience when it would appear that a customer had lost every confidence in my ability to resolve her issue and deliver positive customer experience (frequent power disruptions causing her fishes to die). This was publicized and shared openly on social media and other platforms. To receive this comment, having resolved the issue and going the extra mile, it re-inspired my confidence in doing my job - to connect with customers and resolve their issues.

What is the one thing you love most about working with the women of JPS? JPS women are beautiful inside and

out. They not only are adept and proficient in what they do, but they are also passionate. Importantly, they support JPS men. They bring a harmonic balance to the work environment at JPS. They calm our egos, provide nurture, comfort, guidance and leadership. Without reservation, JPS women are by the far the most powerful and resourceful women you will find in Jamaica.

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What has been your proudest moment at JPS so far? I can think of quite a few memorable

moments at JPS that I’m proud of, but if I’m to narrow down to one, I will say the day I received the letter offering permanent employment here at JPS, after being on contract for a few years. There was no better feeling.

Best life advice you’ve ever gotten? I was

once told by a wise friend: “You are never as good as they say and you are never as bad as they say. You are somewhere in the middle. What I take from this is, never get comfortable or complacent. Always strive to achieve better or more.

How important is giving back to your community to you? Do you engage in any such activities? It is very important as I believe the

true test of character is how you treat the less fortunate or the underprivileged. My wife and I make an effort to provide support or contribute in whatever way we can.

For example making visits to the Missionaries for the Poor (Downtown Kingston) to give cash and/or kind collected from our family and friends.

I have recently joined the Kiwanis Club of Liguanea, with the primary focus to strengthen and build communities and serve children. The club has a few projects lined up in 2017 to achieve those objectives and I am a part of the committee.

What is the one thing you love most about working with the women of JPS? I have

been truly blessed in life to be surrounded by strong, professional and awe-inspiring women. I see these characteristics in my mother, my wife, and the women of JPS whom I work with everyday.

It has been proven that women can do what men can do in JPS, and at times, even better – while being mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, girlfriends etc. So, to answer your question… I love seeing this brand of women at JPS. They keep me challenged, on my toes, and motivate me to also do well.| ON

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LOCATION PARTNERS

Full Name: Simbarashe Nkrumah Job title: Accounting Assistant Department/Division: Corporate Accounting Years in the Company: 13 www.chocolatedreams.com.jm

www.instagram.com/soracuisine

Pre-paid electricity is a Sweet deal...

See who's switching to a JPS Pay As You Go meter I run a multi-purpose facility - now each user can top up when using the facility and you don't have to get stuck with a light bill I operate a villa or short stay rental - when renters are responsible for their own consumption, they use less. Now you can relax while they do I run a small business - monitor how much energy you use to help keep your overheads down I'm a Landlord - never get stuck with your tenant's unpaid light bill again

I'm not always home - top up your electricity only when you need it I share a dwelling - now you can know exactly what you use and never pay for what you don't I'm on a budget - no more surprise bills. See what you use in real time and stay on top of your energy usage Payday is nowhere near my bill due date - never worry about disconnection if you run out of funds before the bill is due I get paid irregularly - never miss another due date.

Now you top up whenever you want

Switch to PAYG! Call 1-888-CALLJPS or visit myjpsco.com

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March 2017

How To Get To The Millionaire’s Club

O

ur ON Q&A with Dan Theoc pursued a subject that everyone seems to be interested in but so few truly understand –money.

Dan is obviously astute- having worked at KPMG where he helped with the acquisition of JPS and was asked to stay on for a three-month period as the company’s acting Chief Financial Officer (CFO)-a role that was clearly a good fit as it blossomed into the position he now holds today.

Dan was born in the Bahamas and attended school there up to third form before moving to Jamaica. Here he went to St. George’s High School and Wolmer’s Boys for sixth form.

His views on money are clear, in fact, Dan is reminiscent of the tortoise in Aesop’s Fable, “The Tortoise and The Hare.” The symbol of steady, methodical and purposeful advancements that eventually win the race.

ON: What is one of the first tips you received about money?

Dan Theoc (DT): The tip I remember receiving from my mom who probably received it from her mom, is that it’s not what you earn but what you save. My recommendation to young people is to start saving as soon as you start to earn a salary. Pension is one saving people take for granted. Ten per cent (10%) for pension (20% if you’re really disciplined) and another ten per cent (10 %) towards some type of investment goal.

ON: What single expression or mantra guides your life as Dan Theoc, CFO JPS? DT: For me, it’s “what goes around comes around” I always try to be balanced and fair.

ON: What is the single biggest mistake that people make with money and what is the biggest misconception that people have about money?

DT: Thinking they have to drive a big fancy car or driving a car and not owning a home. A car is a depreciating asset and yet, many people have the ambition to drive a car but not to own a home. I think owning a home is the

first step towards making an investment.

ON: What advice do you have for young people who want to break into the millionaire’s club?

DT: Well again, I would say to start by determining your expenditure patterns. If you can set aside twenty per cent of your salary towards investment and ten per cent towards your pension then I don’t have a problem with them enjoying some of the rest.

ON: How do you suggest people make money work for them?

DT: With investments you really have to be thinking long term. When you are younger- say under thirty- you should have more of a risk appetite (because the recovery time is longer), but when you are over fifty, you may want to change that risk appetite.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. For sure, you want to put some of your resources into the stock exchange and find a good broker. You don’t have to necessarily figure it out for yourself either, you can use a broker and choosing a broker is a matter of preference.

You want to look at bonds and real estate- when you have a little bit more money to play with. Stocks, bonds and real estate are really the three chains of investment that are good wealth creators over time.

ON: What is your philosophy regarding credit cards/loans/ investments?

DT: Credit Cards: I do not like debt! If you have a credit card, you want to ensure you pay it off every month. It is not intended to be a tool for short term financing. It is a 30-day convenience tool, not free money. If used wisely, it is however a good tool that can be used to score points.

Loans: Ideally, only to get the essentials. I don’t believe in borrowing money to go on vacation or for other non-essentials. I get it, if you want to buy a car, you may not be able to do it cash so taking out a loan may be necessary, but even so, you want to look at one that has the shortest payback period. You might want to adjust what you are purchasing if it’s going to mean having a car loan for 8 years. I think debt is best used for

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Director by Tricia Williamson; Lighting: Adrian Creary;

Photography by Craig Harley; Lighting: Adrian Creary; Makeup by Nadz; Location: Palisadoes

Interview with Dan Theoc

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purchases that have appreciating value like when you’re buying a home.

Investment: I’m a big fan of having 2 or 3 brokers- based on preference. Since 2015 the stock market has doubled which means stocks purchased within that time to now would have doubled. Anybody who invested say a million dollars-as an examplewould have seen 100 per cent increase. With (capital) US$denominated bonds, the advantage of buying them is that you get the devaluation benefit and the interest rate.

With real estate you have to buy for the right amount at the right time.

ON: What advice would you give your 30 year old self about money?

DT: It would definitely have been to focus less on the car- definitely! It’s so easy to get caught up in the hype of impressing your friends. At thirty, you need to be working at owning a home. Even if you still live at home with your parents.

ON: If you couldn’t leave your children money, what single advice or strategy would you give them to secure their financial future?

DT: If I couldn’t leave them money I would tell them that education is the key, and it’s important to finish up to the 1st degree level for sure. I would advise them that once they get married, it’s important to get a good Life Insurance Policy, to have sound savings and enough to put their kids through college.

So it’s a wrap everyone! Remember education, saving and investing particularly in assets with appreciating value, are not just your ticket but your invitation into the Millionaire’s Club.|ON

“A car is a depreciating asset and yet, many people have the ambition to drive a car but not to own a home.

I think owning a home is the first step towards making an investment.”

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GET EDUCATED FOR THE FUTURE Avoid Dying Careers

by Ethnie Miller Simpson

What does the future look like and why is education still relevant?

The future, as we know it, is very unpredictable. The best minds in the best institutions generally get it wrong. This is in technology. This is in the area of politics, where pundits, pollsters, political candidates sometimes get it wrong. Globalization is getting more complex with the underbelly issues of growing inequality (those that are left out, those that feel angry, those that are not participating. Globalization has not been inclusive) and secondly, complexity — a growing fragility. What happens in one place very quickly affects everything else, causing systemic risk systemic shock as Ian Goldin points out. We’ve seen it in the financial crisis, the pandemic flu, and the Zika virus.

Change is getting more rapid, the future will be more unpredictable, urbanization, integration, coming together, will lead to a new renaissance. It happened a thousand years ago but the last 40 years have been extraordinary times. Life expectancy has gone up by about 25 years. Income has gone up for a majority of the world’s population, despite the population going up by about two billion people over this period. And illiteracy has gone down, from a half to about a quarter of the people on Earth. A huge opportunity, unleashing of new potential for innovation, for development.

So a new awareness will have to arise, of how we deal with these, how we mobilize ourselves, how we learn and come together as a community to manage systemic risk. It’s going to require innovation. It’s going to require an understanding that the glory of globalization could also be its downfall. It could be the best of times, or the worst of times. … this could be our best century ever because of the achievements, or it could be our worst.

So how does one get educated for the future? Which careers should I be paying attention to and retro-fitting so we can be productive and survive the next decade as tomorrow’s technology will either make us more enlightened or more stupid.

Nine things that will change: • Diverse time and place - learning at different times, different places • Personalized learning - learning with study tools that adapt to the capabilities of the learner • Free choice - each learner will be able to modify their learning process with tools they feel are necessary for them.

• Project based learning - learning how to apply skills in shorter terms to a variety of situations.

• Field experience - Because technology can facilitate more efficiency in certain domains, curricula will make room for skills that solely require human knowledge and face-to-face interaction. i.e. to fulfil internships, mentoring projects and collaboration projects • Data interpretation- Computers will soon take care of every statistical analysis, and describe and analyze data and predict future trends. Therefore, the human interpretation of these data will become a much more important part of future curricula.

• Exams will change completely - As the factual knowledge of a student can be measured during their learning process, the application of their knowledge is best tested when they work on projects in the field.

ON Magazine | • Student ownership - Maintaining a curriculum that is contemporary, up-to-date and useful is only realistic when there is critical input from the learner on the content and durability of their courses to ensure an all-embracing study program.

• Mentoring will become more important - In 20 years, students will incorporate so much independence into their learning process, that mentoring will become fundamental to student success.

Teachers will form a central point in the jungle of information that our students will be paving their way through.

Dying Careers (sample) 1. Sewing/ Textile Machine Worker 2. Postal Service Sorters/ Mail Carriers/ Post Masters/ Mail Superintendents 3. Switchboard Operators 4. Farmers and Agricultural Workers 5. Data Entry Operators / Word Processors and Typists 6. Electric and Electronic Equipment Assemblers 7. File Clerks/ Loan Interviewers and Clerks 8. Office Machine Operators (photocopier) 9. Petroleum Pump System Operators 10. Travel Agents

Best Careers for the next 10 years • App Developer and Computer Application Software Engineers – App developers are highly sought after in the age of

mobile apps and cloud computing; making use of growing Computer Science and Software skills

• Health Care (Nurse Practitioner and Dental Hygienist in particular) – older populations and baby boomers requiring more care

• Physicians and surgeons – Increasing retirement numbers

•

• •

• • •

of physicians. Increased use of technology in Miniaturization as well leading to the “invisible capacity” in our bodies, in our brains, and in the air. With fantastic potential for regenerative medicine, there may not be a Special Olympics long after 2030, because of this capacity to regenerate parts of the body.

Market Research Analysts – companies awash with big data need people to make sense of it. (Marketing, Statistics and Math knowledge a criteria). There is a greater need for insight into demographics, new market trend analysis and data patterns Personal Financial Advisors – increased finance and taxation regulations means more people need help with taxes, investments and insurance Civil Engineers – this type of engineering which involves overseeing transportation, municipal and industrial infrastructure development is the most closely linked to population growth and increased urbanization Computer Systems Analysts – building and managing computer networks, increasing file sharing and inter “office” communication (albeit from increased freelancers and consultants) Management Analysts – managing retirement portfolios (or even outsourced segments of companies too expensive or problematic to keep) Accountants and Auditors – with more companies and individuals needing to manage their books, tax payments, prepare financial statements, more entrepreneurs, and businesses, changing financial laws and corporate governance regulations and increased accountability to managing risk to stakeholder investment

March 2017

• Registered Nurses – globalized health challenges and

epidemics make nursing care increasingly relevant. Additionally, the need to ensuretlicensed care is now fundamental for not just nurses but now teachers and even household technicians.

With more education, we dare to think, innovate and create.

It does not mean that the traditional way of learning will die but rather evolve as with everything else. The future of education lies in harnessing technology to make us learn quicker, memorize effectively, and teach better. Used effectively under the direction of passionate and experiential teachers, Artificial Intelligence will be a tool that helps us strive towards a new age of enlightenment, which in turn, will transform the teaching and learning process into something more immersive, engaging, and effective than ever before. And like Mark Twain said, your ‘schooling does not have to interfere with your education.’|ON

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#SaveOurWomenJa On February 6, #TeamJPS wore all black to show its support for the movement to #EndViolenceAgainstWomenAndChildren. JPS has pledged its support to work alongside Woman Incorporated to shaow our women that they are not alone. There is a way out. There is hope! Don’t just talk. Do! Join the fight to #SaveOurWomenJA

What’s it like working on WIE from behind the scenes?

I

am extremely elated to have been selected to work with the 2017 Women in Energy Secretariat. I believe that by being a part of the planning process I am gaining valuable experience and learning a lot.. This is a humbling experience.

There is so much diversity of talents in these affable, venerable and upstanding women with whom I am working. Each one of us is inimitably a gentle giant in our own rights.

I extend hearty congratulations to the WIE Movement for embarking on this journey of chronicling the achievements of outstanding women in the energy sector and other male-dominated industries. Each woman in this Movement has attained immeasurable and unparalleled success in her workplace and continues to inspire others like me to be empowered in the rise to greatness.

It is my aim, as a part of the planning team and working behind the scenes, to ensure a successful WIE Conference. This experience serves as a source of pride and renewed energy for me. I am honoured be a part of this experience and would not hesitate to serve in the future.

Kenisha Graham

ON Magazine |

March 2017

10 Tips for keeping fit and healthy in 2017!

By Kamila McDonald

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March 2017 fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains, peas and beans, nuts and seeds.

Enjoy lean animal protein such as fish, chicken and eggs in moderation.

STAY HYDRATED Water is second only to oxygen in the level of importance it has in the body and critical for staying fit and healthy. Get a BPA free water bottle to take around with you and take sips throughout the day to stay adequately hydrated. 2-3 liters of water per day should be your goal.

EAT 5 SMALL, CLEAN MEALS EVERY DAY Think of your metabolism as a muscle—if you don’t use it, it will lie dormant and slow down. Increasing frequency of meals stimulates your metabolism, stabilizes your blood sugar, minimizes cravings and prevents hunger.

WATCH YOUR PLATE Eat a combination of lean protein and complex carbs at every meal in order to slow down the carb to fat conversion process. This will slow digestion, keep you full for longer, improve mood, energy and help with a clear and focused mind.

2017 will be YOUR year. Follow these tips to stay healthy, fit and fabulous all year round!

SHAKE UP YOUR MOTIVATIONS Your motivation to consistently exercise and eat healthy needs to be so strong that it will supersede all the inevitable challenges and temptations you will face on your journey. Instead of focusing on temporary/superficial motivations like losing weight for an event coming up, stay focused on creating a better quality of life. Motivations like wanting to live longer, sleep better, have clearer skin and more energy throughout the day will fuel your will power in a way that is necessary for consistent commitment.

GET CLEAR ON YOUR GOALS After determining your motivations, it is important to get clear on exactly what it is that you want and exactly how you will accomplish it. Write it down and re-commit every single day by re-reading your goals. Block tangible time in your schedule to workout, shop healthy and meal prep. Get clear, specific and accept no excuses to see those goals through!

CREATE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS Don’t try to change your body overnight. If your expectations are unrealistic, you set yourself up for disappointment and an overwhelming feeling of discouragement. This inadvertently leads to quitting the journey, most times when it has only just began! Take it one workout and one meal at a time. Slow and steady always wins the race.

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY Not all calories are created equal —100 calories of cookies and 100 calories of broccoli are not the same thing! Eat real food— avoid highly processed, factory-manufactured food and instead eat a wide variety of

“Don’t try to change your body overnight. If your expectations are unrealistic, you set yourself up for disappointment...”

EAT BREAKFAST EVERYDAY Wake up your metabolism by starting out with the most important meal of the day! Within an hour of rising, fuel up with a healthy, high fiber breakfast to improve mood, brain function and contribute fitness.

EXERCISE REGULARLY Our bodies need 4-5 effective sessions per week of vitamin SWEAT! The benefits of regular exercise are endless and should include strength training, cardiovascular exercise and stretching. Choose a time of day that you can genuinely commit to. Prioritize your workouts. Make them non-negotiable.

WANT IT BAD ENOUGH No matter how big or small your goals are you WILL stumble upon obstacles, in fact many of them. Don’t rely on your feelings to accomplish your goals. Make your mind up that you will be stronger than those obstacles. If you want what’s on the other side of them badly enough, then you will do everything in your power to make it happen. |ON Email: info@kampkamilafitness.com Website: kampkamilafitness.com Facebook: Kamila McDonald

Instagram: iamkamilamcdonald Twitter: @kamilamcdonald

Photos contributed.

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Energy Solutions I

f I had to contextualize my interview with Kenyatta Campbell- Head of Energy Solutions at JPS- in one word, it would be enLIGHTening.

Kenyatta is quite a character, but I suppose cutting edge technology requires adventurous personalities.

A St. Georges College alumni, he was all set to pursue Telecoms and Electrical Engineering at the University of Technology- that was until he got a phone call that promised a scholarship to study in Cuba. The caller needed a response within a day and not only did Kenyatta respond in the affirmative, but by the end of the week, he was in Havana, Cuba, with twenty US dollars in his pocket, to study for a degree in a language he did not speak.

By his own admission, the only thing he knew in Spanish at the time was “Buenos Dias Senora Profesora.”

That’s history, fast forward to 2017: fluency in a foreign language and one degree later, Kenyatta’s energy solutions team comprises fourteen persons, five of whom report directly to him. The core function of the team is to promote energy efficiencies which includes energy audits and retrofits, any program that results in customers using energy more efficiently in addition to a section that deals with renewable energy projects and the (centralised) management of the E-Stores that retails energy efficiency products.

What are energy solutions and what does they mean for Jamaica?

Interview with Kenyatta Campbell

Road and the other at the Head Office, which reduce energy costs by taking some of the load off the grid.

How has employing these solutions impacted the company’s bottomline?

For the last 30 day assessment, it has saved approximately J$94,000 at the Head Office and for the Ruthven Road office, whose assessment was less than 30 days because it was implemented afterwards- it has saved about J$55,000. Both units are producing at 25% above projected expectations.

“JPS is leading the energy revolution.”

What recommendations would you give to other companies that are interested in employing energy solutions in order to lower their own carbon foot-print?

For clarity, I will start by saying that energy efficiency and energy conservation are not the same thing, even though people use them interchangeably. Energy conservation is denying comfort or benefit in order to save, such as turning off lights and fans. Efficiency is using energy optimally without denying yourself. Energy efficiency when realised will boost productivity. There is no one way to do this. The best thing to do is to conduct an energy audit and find your driver-or the thing that most challenges your building’s efficiency. For some people it may be the lighting, for some it may be the air conditioning but after the audit reveals the driver, then you can fix it. If it is lighting you can change the bulbs, if it’s the cooling system, you can make it more efficient.

What are some of the plans and projects that you have in the pipeline as it relates to energy solutions or renewable energy?

As it relates to energy solutions, if you go back to our vision, JPS is leading the energy revolution-a revolution is rapid change occurring drastically and energy solutions have to do with the customers using energy more efficiently. While the core business of the company takes care of connectivity, energy solutions takes care of energy needs that are non-grid related. If you want to make your building more efficient-that’s us. If you want a LED bulb - that’s also us.

If you want to be greener that’s us, so it is to provide that solution for every Jamaican.

As a unit our plans are to dream big and take risks. We are pursuing the construction of a 1 megawatt solar power project in Turks and Caicos. Turks and Caicos gets a lot of sun which means a lot of solar power to drive the first renewable project outside of Jamaica. We would also like to facilitate and encourage the use of electronic vehicles which would mean (possible) partnerships with dealers as well as providing facilities for charging the vehicles which would in turn help the country’s fuel bill.

As it relates to the E-Store, we would like to widen the offerings and do more along the lines of building automation. We will also be integral in constructing a 20 kilowatt system for UWI’s net zero building, so called because, the energy that the building needs, it produces, so it ‘nets’ it off.

We have also been in discussions with the National Education Trust to do an audit of 30 schools to present better savings options for them.

What kind of energy solutions are being currently employed?

How will these initiatives help businesses and consumers locally and internationally?

While JPS has begun taking steps towards energy solutions such as changing out incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs and we have our own internal efficiency competitions, as a unit we have built two solar powered carports, one at Ruthven

It really translates to a saving for all. Even if people have to pay a little extra to be greener so that they lower their carbon footprint it results in a saving for all.

Do you think the advent of renewable energy-say privately owned wind farms for example- pose a threat to your business? Why or Why not?

This is a question that is always asked. Competition, if nothing else, spurs innovation and creativity.

As it relates specifically to a wind farm, an OUR tender is required, as competing is not something that could be done overnight. In a nutshell, there is and always will be competition but you can look at how JPS has performed compared to the competition over the last 90 years. We have a cadre of expertise and while we won’t win all the customers all the time, we will win most of the customers most of the time.|ON

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ON Magazine |

March 2017

A Letter to my Daughter

by Tishan Lee

(to be opened in 2026)

It’s in your DNA

For better or for worse, it’s almost unavoidable for such intensity in character to escape you my darling and my gut tells me you’re not going to be very different from us three gals. You’re an adult now, preparing for entry into the ‘real world’. You are a phenomenal woman destined to do phenomenal things; but there are some things I think you should know.

If you are as outspoken as your mother…

Your path will not be easy. It happens to a lesser extent now, but when I was a child most adults expected children to be seen and not heard. This perplexed me as a young girl overflowing with thoughts and ideas and exploding with the desire to share them with, well, everyone. Emotional intelligence was not a familiar term to me then and I suffered because of my ignorance.

Though my mother encouraged me to be independent – once I remained respectful – the rest of the world was not so amused. I was dubbed the ‘village lawyer’ from prep school and right throughout high school, always taking on someone else’s battle, always in the middle of my very own little civil rights movement, because in my mind, I was a person with an opinion and a voice to be heard. This was my training ground for the boardroom.

In the world of an executive, it is not enough to simply speak your mind; you must do so with purpose, filter your thoughts before they become words and skilfully navigate very choppy waters. I thank those teachers for the opposition that laid the groundwork for what is now my fortitude. Speak up and speak well Mia - I have your back.

If you are as passionate as your mother…

You will be met with resistance. You will be a fireball my love and a bit of an acquired taste for some, but don’t be discouraged. Make it your duty to know and understand people, be vulnerable and help them to understand you. Treat their ideas and desires with genuine interest and care and invite them on your journey. You will be amazed at how many will willingly come along to help you achieve your purpose, whilst you return the favour.

If you are as driven as your mother…

You will learn very quickly that you are only as good as your last five minutes. It’s the reward for good work, but that won’t affect you very much, because you’re driven. There is an unquenchable fire in your belly

to win. Ideas will come frequently and effortlessly. Yes, your competitive spirit will propel you to achieve impressive things at a relatively young age, but manage that carefully and don’t alienate your potential allies. If they are not as intense as you are, your exuberance could be misconstrued as arrogance or impatience with them.

The dark side of your drive is not knowing when to let go, taking on more than you should, losing balance or forgetting your ‘Why’.

Strive for balance, celebrate your accomplishments and uniqueness, which are the fruit of your passion, but never bask in them; that’s your ego.

If you are a perfectionist like your mother…

You will struggle with the knowledge that you are a work in progress. You will want to get it right all the time, every time. Be patient with yourself, you are enough and you are doing the best you can. When I feel like I have fallen short, I step back and reflect on who is holding me to these audacious standards. Usually at the end of my meditation, I realize that I am the only one who expects me to deliver a mountain when a pebble will suffice. Now don’t get me wrong, ambition is important and necessary, just don’t become so blinded by being so good at everything that you enjoy nothing in the process.

If you find your purpose like your mother…

You will become immersed in your work, mostly because it doesn’t feel like work at all. You have found your passion and you are grateful every day that you have been led to a purpose that nourishes your spirit, stimulates your intellect, provides for your family, and can truly make a positive contribution to the world.

Mia Rose, this world will try to put you in a box – be warned, the odds are against you, as there is no shortage of boxes. There are gender boxes, intellect boxes, age boxes, melanin boxes, religion boxes and political boxes, to name a few. They are accompanied by language designed to defeat

Photography by Craig Harley; Creative Direction: Tricia Williamson; Design: Oneil Banton

M

y Mia, You come from a line of strong women who exist in a world where a woman’s strength isn’t always celebrated.

Some strengths are innate, while others are stripes earned through experience. Your great grandmother’s strength was in her nurturing, patience and fortitude. Your grandmother’s strength is in her resilience, vision and heart. Your mother’s strength is in her grit an amalgamation of the strengths inherited from the women in the family before me.

ON Magazine | you like, “she’s too young to…”, “who does she think she is?” and “she will never…”. When those box peddlers attempt to sell you one of their bright shiny boxes, usually when you are at your lowest point and that big ol’ box provides you with the perfect excuse to take the easy way out, remember this: • You are a Queen and cannot be contained by anyone’s box • You are the architect of your destiny and no living person can determine your future • It won’t be easy, but you can have whatever you want…dream big, be deliberate and pursue it with purpose and relentless passion • Know yourself and never lose yourself in the pursuit of any worldly thing or anyone’s expectation of you • Know your worth, know that your value is established by no one else but you and never settle for anything less than that in any sphere of your life • Live ‘good’ with people, keep a clean heart and mind. Give generously and sincerely, or not at all • Love hard and passionately. Find your happiness and pay no attention to what others think that ought to look like, as long as it is well with your soul • Place God at the centre of everything. Conference with him often, he’s a great listener and even better advisor • Keep your circle small and true • People will dislike you. This will intensify as you grow in success.

Learn to come to terms with that; it is completely out of your control

March 2017

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Tishan’s daughter- Mia

•

Do not give your time to gossip and unproductive behaviour. Be a people builder • Do not compare your life to anyone else’s and never envy what you didn’t earn Know that you are deeply, passionately, infinitely and abundantly loved

Now go kick ass!

Love,

Mommy

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ON Magazine |

March 2017

In The Boardroom with

Minna Israel “With more focused examination of the effectiveness of corporate governance on financial performance, there is no question women improve the way organizations operate and perform especially when they get the opportunity to do so at the highest level, the boardroom”.- Minna Israel

all stakeholders, are adding value. Where my behaviour and actions are governed by the entity’s Code of Conduct.

Where I commit the time – a lot of time, to understand the operations and take an active role by preparing fully for board meetings.

I know there are still significant hurdles that women must overcome to get access to the board table, but based on proven benefits, companies must incorporate more women on their boards, by looking outside of their networks to fill skill gaps through formal recruitment of women who are also below the CEO level.

Over the past 15 years, I have been fortunate to serve on the boards of privately “As former President of the International Women’s Forum, Jamaica held, publicly listed, and public (IWFJ) - the world’s pre-eminent association of top women leaders across entities. My early appointments all fields, I am honoured and proud to have led the initiative to educate, to boards were based on my inspire, and empower two young Jamaican women leaders, with training wealth of experience as a of exceptional quality at the Harvard Business School and INSEAD; access bank executive - with sound to mentors, and the opportunity to challenge their assumptions and knowledge and expertise in As women prepare expand their horizons.” financial & risk management, to take their seats in the compliance and corporate boardroom, I share a few governance, business and tips which have worked for me: industry partnerships, people and sales leadership, and a wide • Develop strategic networks, making sure your network is as professional network. broad as possible, where you become part of the network of those who After my retirement from banking, these skills made me an serve on boards. attractive candidate for other board appointments, and today, I serve on • Find a sponsor who sits on a board and who can help the Boards of six companies as well as two commissions. introduce you to the ways you can contribute to decision making.

I am proud to report that at all, except one company, there is equal • Identify what boards interest you and what skills and representation of men and women, and these companies benefit from executive profiles boards are seeking and acquire relevant skills. Talk diverse perspectives, wide variety of experiences and backgrounds, to head hunters, explain to them what you are looking for and your and qualified members who are confident to ask the right questions qualifications. of management, that facilitate richer discussion and better decision• Look for opportunities on not-for-profit, or small company making. In addition, some of these Boards have implemented the “good boards - to develop and gain strategic thinking experience. practice” of evaluating the contribution of members, and providing I challenge all women to act strategically and reap the rewards training to address knowledge gaps. you will receive by seizing the opportunities available and creating I have certainly benefited from Chairmen who see beyond gender – new opportunities where you can assume your place at the boardroom selecting the right person for the job. table.|ON What’s in my control? It is being strategic in choosing the right company with shared values of integrity; quality; diversity; service; trust; confidentiality; and respect – where my experience, knowledge, collaborative approach and willingness to consider the concerns of

Photo contributed.

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ON Magazine |

March 2017

JPS Foundation charts the way in Energy Education

Photos Contributed.

J

Jacinth Morgan Collie, Manager of the JPS Foundation shares with some of the young ones following a presentation.

PS Foundation, in its commitment to expand Energy Education, creates, plans, executes, supports and monitors initiatives that directly and indirectly support this cause. Energy is part of everyone’s daily life and there is evident need to be educated about every facet of this topic.

As consumers become more aware of the role of energy in their lives how much it costs, why it is important and how to protect it while being innovative, the JPS Foundation continuously plays its part in providing the necessary information at various levels.

The JPS Foundation Energy Club project was created with this in mind. The 2yr old programme is administered in fifteen high schools across Jamaica and will be increased to thirty schools in 2017. Energy Clubs help students better understand energy issues and inspire innovation and creativity in the fields of energy, science and technology.

There is additional focus on environmental awareness and management through innovative, technological and science-based methods.

In order to encourage enterprise, the Foundation in 2016, partnered with Junior Achievement Jamaica in the delivery of entrepreneurial studies to grade nine students in all public high schools under the Ministry of Education’s mandate to make entrepreneurial studies mandatory at the secondary level. In support of education and providing options for the growth of our nation through entrepreneurship, JPS Foundation launched the CSEC Electrical and Electronic Technology Exam Fee Sponsorship programme in 2016. This allows qualifying high school students to sit the exam at no cost to them and create the opportunity for them to have a certified skill.

In delivering in its quest to expand energy education, the Foundation partners with public and private agencies such as Petroleum

Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ), Ministries of Government, Junior Achievement Jamaica and a strong corps of staff volunteers, VOLTS (Volunteers On Location To Serve). The VOLTS group of over 500 staff members is the power behind the delivery and sustainability of programmes. The volunteer group will be expanded to include the first cohort of non-staff volunteers in 2017, dubbed Friends of VOLTS (FoV).|ON

JPS President and CEO, Kelly Tomblin (centre), points to the spot for Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, Dean-Roy Bernard, (left) after Sen. Hon. Ruel Reid, Head of the Ministry signed at the launch of the JPS Foundation CSEC Electrical and Electronic Technology Exam Fee Sponsorship Programme in November 2016.

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March 2017

Hillary Alexander (l) and Minna Israel at the Women in Energy (WIE) Paint and Sip event.

Sam Davis and Blaine Jarrett looking suave at the JPS Foundation charity event Dazzle

Bogue: The Official Commissioning of the Natural Gas-Fired Bogue Power Plant in Montego Bay. (From left) Wes Edens, CEO, Fortress Investment Group LLC; Prime Minister of Jamaica, The Most Hon. Andrew Holness; and President and CEO of JPS, Kelly Tomblin.

Platts: Kelly Tomblin poses with her Platts award as the 2016 CEO of the Year.

Dazzle: Dancing was the order of the night as these two ladies and a male guest worked up a sweat at the JPS Foundation charity event - Dazzle.

Platts: The JPS Team got all glammed up for the 2016 Platts Global Energy Awards. (From left) Keith Garvey, Kelly Tomblin, Winsome Callum, Camille Rowe and Joseph Williams.

Photos contributed.

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Paint N Sip: Ladies creating their masterpieces at the Women in Energy (WIE) Paint N Sip event in August.

WIE 2016: These ladies were all smiles at the 1st staging of the Women in Energy Conference held in March 2016

WIE Brunch: The WIE ladies enjoying brunch on the lawns of Palmyra Hotel for the WIE Brunch held in Montego Bay last October.

Photos contributed.

WIE 2016: It was high energy at the Women in Energy Conference 2016 as the ladies did Power Differently.

Sizzlin Red: Chevaneese Brown sizzled as the Best Dressed Female at the JPS Christmas party in December

The crowd soaked the sweet melody of ‘singy singy’ Tarrus Riley at the JPS Christmas Party - Sizzlin’ Red.

WIE Brunch: The WIE ladies looked Beach Chic as they relaxed on the lawns of Palmyra Hotel for the WIE Brunch held in Montego Bay last October.

This couple shared the Christmas spirit as they posed for the camera at Sizzlin Red.

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