JN Living Well Magazine

FEEDBACK ON OUR LAST ISSUE

After reading through the latest issue of the magazine, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the captivating articles and visuals. From insightful features to eye-catching photography, each page o ered something unique and engaging. The diverse range of topics covered made for an enriching reading experience, leaving me eager to delve deeper into future editions. Overall, a truly delightful read that I would highly recommend to others.

-Shavell Daley

AsI enjoyed the story, ‘Demand Soars Following Upgrade at Skills Training Centre’ as good people come near and far! As a fellow volunteer, I am blown away by the expansion of the JN Circle Chapter. The article was touching, and the visuals were stunning. Keep up the good work JN Foundation!

-Alex Thompson

I found the article on travel enjoyable. As an aspiring content vlogger, I’m pleased

EDITORIAL

that the content covered not only banking topics but also touched on current trends. It’s appealing to individuals interested in a wide range of subjects.

-Shannon Smith

As a current realtor, I am impressed by the tips shared under the title, ‘Transform your home’. Oftentimes, I will advise a client that renovation of their home increases their chance of obtaining a higher sale value or rental value. Convenience is something that suitors will buy or lease. The other stories are also current and trendy.

-Peta-Gay Dilworth

150 YEARS...FORWARD TOGETHER!

August 13 approaches, a signi cant occasion is unfoldingthe commemoration of the 150th anniversary of The Jamaica National Group. From its start as the Westmoreland Building Society in 1874, its rebranding in 1970 as the Jamaica National Building Society and transformation to The Jamaica National Group in 2017, the organisation has today evolved into one of Jamaica’s proudest success stories, empowering numerous individuals to achieve their aspirations of home ownership and wealth creation, while also supporting entrepreneurs in their endeavours.

With an international network spanning the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Cayman Islands, the reach and impact of The Jamaica National Group extends far beyond the shores of Jamaica.

The Group comprises a dynamic family of member companies, each o ering its unique array of services. Collectively, we provide exceptional service and bene ts in the areas of banking, nance, insurance, IT solutions, and automobile services.

money transfer nancial system, which powers JN Money Services. The award-winning BizPay Central by MC Systems is the rst payroll service of its type in Jamaica.

Beyond nancial services, The Jamaica National Group has remained deeply committed to social responsibility. The establishment of the JN Foundation in 1990 has been instrumental in addressing developmental needs in areas such as water resources, road safety, advocacy, education and nancial literacy.

These achievements owe much to the dedication of our employees and the loyal support of our customers throughout the years. As we stand on the cusp of our 150th year, our resolve is to remain strong and forti ed and to forge a brighter future.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation, and putting people rst, we are laying a solid foundation for the years to come, with enhanced credit approval processes, personalised customer experiences and further development of the JN Circle network to facilitate community enrichment.

Our legacy is marked by numerous milestones and industry rsts. JN Bank is the rst mutually-owned commercial bank in Jamaica and the only ISO 9001:2015 certi ed nancial institution in Jamaica. MC Systems was the rst company to introduce an internet-based

Tanya Pringle Executive Corporate Communications

As we look ahead to the future, united in purpose and determination, we remain steadfast in our commitment to enriching lives and building communities, and we are con dent that the best is yet to come.

Gareth Manning Senior Manager Corporate Communications

Karen Oliver Communication Specialist

Corporate Communications

The JN Living Well magazine, a production of the JN Group Corporate Communication department, was previously issued three times per year, April, August and December. Starting this year, the magazine is now published twice per year, May and November. This issue and previous ones can be accessed at www.jngroup.com/living Please send feedback and suggestions to corporatecommunications@jngroup.com

The Jamaica National Group

The Jamaica National Group

The Jamaica National Group

Ways to Practise Debit and Credit Card Safety 5

is with your debit and credit cards. Although it may seem convenient to lend your card to a friend or family member in need, doing so can compromise your financial security. When you hand over your card, you lose control over how it is used. Instead of lending your card, consider alternative ways to assist others financially, such as sending money through secure payment apps or offering to make purchases on their behalf using your own card.

5 Pay Attention to Text and Email Alerts

In keeping with the previous point, I must stress the importance of remaining vigilant in light of recent increases in card skimming at POS and ATMs. Be alert when using ATMs and POS machines, safeguard your PIN, and be sure to monitor text messages and email alerts showing all transactions. The alerts were implemented by JN Bank to help you keep track of all transactions. It is just one of our ways we help you to remain safe.

Keeping your debit and credit cards safe is more critical than ever. From fraudulent charges to identity theft, the consequences of credit card misuse can be severe. Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to safeguard your card information and prevent unauthorised use.

Here are five ways to keep your debit and credit cards safe:

1 Avoid Subscribing to ‘Free’ Services Using your Card Information

It is tempting to sign up for seemingly free trials or services online, especially when all it requires is entering your debit or credit card details. However, these offers often come with hidden charges or automatic subscription renewals. Before subscribing to any service or trial, thoroughly read the terms and conditions, especially regarding payment details and cancellation policies.

2 Do Not Lend Your Card to Anyone

3 Use RFID Blocking Wallet or Case Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) blocking wallets or cases can help prevent unauthorised scanning of your card’s RFID chip, thwarting potential skimming attempts. These are inexpensive to purchase on popular ecommerce sites. These specialised wallets or cases are designed with materials that block RFID signals, preventing fraudsters from remotely scanning and stealing your card information.

4 Examine POS Machines Carefully

Always inspect the point-of-sale (POS) machine carefully to ensure it has not been tampered with. Fraudsters may install skimming devices or card readers on POS machines to capture card information without your knowledge. Look for any unusual attachments, loose components, or suspicious behaviour from merchants or employees. Additionally, practise covering the keypad when entering your PIN and if you hand over your card to the cashier or vendor to tap or insert, watch your card closely.

By following these five essential tips, you can minimise the risk of debit or credit card fraud and protect your financial information from unauthorised access.

If you have experienced or know of any issues related to breaches or skimming, or you have recently noticed suspicious transactions, report it right away. Our Member Care Centre is available 24/7 via phone from Jamaica: 888-991-4065/6; from USA and Canada: 1-800-462-9003, and from the UK: 0-800-328-0387.

Your JN Member Ombudsman is the customer champion for The Jamaica National Group. She advocates for issues that preserve mutuality and unleash the potential of JN members. The Ombudsman promotes the adoption of business practices that ensure delightful service and adds value to membership. The Ombudsman also facilitates dialogue with JN members about matters that impact their relationship with member companies of The Jamaica National Group and investigates complaints in order to achieve impartial resolution.

Claudine Allen, Member Ombudsman

The Jamaica National Group

Enduring those

Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist The Jamaica National Group

F

or many women, each month heralds not only the onset of their menstrual cycle but also a battle against debilitating pain, nausea, fatigue, and other kinds of discomfort that disrupt their everyday lives. The toll it takes on physical and emotional wellbeing is profound.

Casieka Dunkley, who described her menstrual cramps as horrible, related that the problem started when she was 13 years old.

“I would throw up literally every five minutes, so I couldn’t eat during the first four or five days of my menses. I was nauseous, I couldn’t keep down any tablets or stuff that they said could help. I couldn’t drink water either, I would throw it up. I was di y as well and I had excruciating lower back pain. Most of the time, I was on the oor,” she disclosed, adding that her menses would last for two weeks and that once, it lasted the entire month.

“I would miss school and as an adult, I would be absent from work for a minimum of three days. When I go back on the fourth day, I would be so weak physically because I was not able to eat for three days, and I would still be nauseous. I almost got fired because my employer thought I had another job. I remember having a job interview and couldn’t go because my period came. A lot of things I missed out on because of it.”

Similarly, LeJem Corrodus Johnson, now breathes a sigh of relief when she re ects on those days when she had to deal with painful menstrual periods.

“I would have to be absent from work for the first day of my period every month. I would experience excruciating pain in my lower back and lower abdomen accompanied by extreme fatigue and infrequent nausea and vomiting. Interestingly, I have always experienced painful periods, from day one of my cycle until day five when it ended.”

Mrs Corrodus Johnson, who had been dealing with painful periods since her teenage years, would take three prescription painkillers every four hours which did very little to ease the pain. She also used a hot water bag on her lower abdomen to help with relaxing the muscles.

“It affected my emotional well-being and mental health as I wondered if there was anything that could have helped the pain. Then, when it came time to extend my family, I could not get pregnant, which was stressful,” she said.

Following surgery 10 years ago to remove fibroids, her menstrual pain disappeared, and she was able to conceive.

Dr Makesha Archer, an Obstetrician and ynaecologist, pointed out that painful menstrual periods can result from underlying medical conditions, such as premenstrual syndrome, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, pelvic in ammatory disease, or cervical stenosis.

“The cause of painful periods can be diagnosed with a combination of medical history, pelvic exam, laboratory tests and imaging,” she explained.

The cause of painful periods can be diagnosed with a combination of medical history, pelvic exam, laboratory tests and imaging

During her teenage years, she underwent testing for fibroids, but none were detected. However, upon repeating the test in adulthood, the presence of fibroids was confirmed.

In 2023, an unexpected moment occurred during Ms Dunkley’s first attendance at a morning devotion session at her new workplace. The individual who conducted the prayer, a stranger to her at the time, walked over to her at the start of the prayer.

“No one knew about the issue I had. She didn’t say anything about my belly. She just lifted her hands over it and prayed. In my head, I was thinking that problem must be solved now,” she related.

Since that prayer session, Ms Dunkley said she no longer experiences menstrual cramps.

laborating on fibroids as a common cause of menstrual pain, she pointed out that fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb) and that the growths are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue that vary in si e.

“Fibroids are common, and 20 to 70 per cent of women will develop fibroids during their reproductive years. Approximately two out of three women develop at least one fibroid in their lifetime. Fibroids occur most in women aged 30 to 50,” she pointed out.

Dr Archer said that the exact cause of uterine fibroids is not clear but that genetic, hormonal, and other growth factors can play a role.

“The most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include heavy menstrual bleeding or painful periods, longer or more frequent periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination or trouble urinating, enlarging abdomen, constipation, pain in the stomach area or lower back, or pain during sex.”

“There’s no single best treatment for fibroids. Many treatment choices exist and can be medical or surgical,” she added.

Leighton Williams, Communication Officer

The Jamaica National Group

Caring for your older parents can be stressful, but we can come up with strategies to ensure a harmonious care relationship, explained Dr Julian McKoy Davis, Senior erontologist, and lecturer in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at The University of the West Indies.

Dr McKoy Davis, who is an ageing and development expert, with more than 15 years of experience, added that there may be times when providing care for aging parents is needed. This care, she explained, may range from assisting them with activities of daily living (ADLs) to instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).

ADLs are activities that are personal to an individual and include feeding, grooming, getting in and out of bed, and using the bathroom. IADLs are activities that allow an individual to live independently. These include transportation, laundry, shopping and managing finances. Dr McKoy Davis added that caregiving is a role that requires a delicate balance with other responsibilities to avoid burnout.

She suggested some strategies to enable a harmonious care relationship.

The senior gerontologist also urged younger adults to enjoy the time spent with their parents.

“Enjoy the moments and time spent together. It doesn’t matter how short or long the time is that you spend caring for your parent(s), find something to enjoy and appreciate daily. ive them special treats. veryone looks forward to a surprise or treat at some time. It doesn’t matter how small it is, do something special. Think about what they like but may not be able to do a lot of or enjoy because of their health condition. o for a walk, go to the beach, accompany them to church, take them owers, and bring them ice-cream or pastry. Whatever the special treat is, be mindful of health conditions and do everything in moderation,” she said.

It doesn’t matter how short or long the time is that you spend caring for your

enjoy and appreciate daily

“Take into consideration the needs, interests and opinions of parents in caregiving decisions. Be respectful. our parent(s) is always your parent(s) irrespective of whatever misunderstandings that you may have had in the past. Respect is due at all times,” she advised.

“Also, remember that your parent is an adult. ery often we hear the phrase Once a man, twice a child’, used to describe the dependence of older adults on care and support from others especially if the person is bed-bound. There are some behaviours that older adults display, maybe as a result of a health condition (for example repetitive and disruptive behaviours or lack of inhibitions), as well as the side-effects of medications. It’s easy for persons to associate twice a child’ as needing to be disciplined especially when the parent’s behaviour seems inappropriate,” she added.

She continued: “Be mindful to differentiate between the health conditions of your parent, which maybe causing particular behaviour, versus a natural reaction. It is never ok to spank, neglect, withhold affection/ care/food or punish your parent because of something that they did. They are not your child(ren).”

“Be sure to get other family members and friends engaged in caring. This includes other siblings or relatives, grandchildren and also friends. Caregiving is not a one-man band. We all need support,” she reminded young adults.

“Encourage them to be independent for as long as is possible. If they are able to undertake their ADLS (even if at a slower than normal pace), encourage and facilitate. Also, provide support, for example, with grooming. Provide options for clothes selection (rather than making them feel like they don’t have a choice in selecting what to wear),” she said.

She also encourages younger adults to seek assistance when needed.

“Recognise when you need additional help and get it. There are days when the demand of caregiving is too much to manage on our own and so we need additional help. Ask and seek for help. The help that is needed may just be a little break so that you, the caregiver, can get some time to rest and recoup or time to do your personal activities,” she urged.

Shelly-Ann Thompson, founder of olden Designs, a company that provides experiences for older adults, also recommended a few activities which children can engage in with older parents.

“There are numerous things that can be done such as outdoor activities, for example, going for walks, accompanying them to the doctor/grocery shopping, gardening, or going to church,” she pointed out.

“You can encourage them to do art and craft. Engaging in creative activities such as painting, pottery, or crochet can be both enjoyable and therapeutic for older adults, while also providing opportunities for intergenerational bonding,” she added.

She added that teaching them how to use computers or smart devices is also a good way to spend time with them.

“Teaching older adults how to use technology, such as smartphones, tablets, or social media can help them stay connected with loved ones and engage with the modern world,” she said.

“Cooking meals or baking treats together not only provides a delicious outcome, but also fosters teamwork, creativity, and social interaction. There is also storytelling, which involves asking seniors to reminisce or share stories of their life’s goals, challenges, successes, and achievements. This can be a meaningful way to bridge the generation gap and preserve family history,” she said.

Before Applying for a Loan... Understand the

5 of Credit! C’s

nthon organ, Communication Officer

The Jamaica National Group

For years, Christopher Nembhard, a music educator who works miles away from home, wanted a car to make travelling easier and his life less stressful. Because he didn’t have cash upfront to buy one, he decided to get a loan to help him finance the purchase.

Christopher, like most loan applicants, suspected the lender would require a few documents to make his dream a reality. What he didn’t know was that he would be evaluated using the Five Cs of Credit, which Rose Miller, Manager for Strategic mpowerment Programmes at the JN Foundation, said everyone should be aware of before applying for a loan. The Five Cs of Credit are character, capacity, capital, conditions, and collateral.

“ ou can’t simply walk into a bank or credit union with just a photo ID or evidence of income and get a loan. ou are required to pass the Five Cs of Credit test before being approved for a loan,” said Mrs Miller.

Mrs Miller said the Five Cs provide lenders with a framework to evaluate a loan applicant’s creditworthiness, and in Christopher’s case, that framework was used to determine if he could be trusted to receive new credit.

“Looking back, I realised that by considering those factors, the lender was able to assess my financial situation and determine the level of risk associated with extending credit to me,” Christopher said.

Pointing out that one should use credit responsibly and primarily for enhancing one’s financial security, Mrs Miller shared that these individuals will likely be good candidates for

These Mrs Miller said were critical for his character test, noting that the lender used the series of information to establish how financially reliable he was and if he would be able to pay back the money if given more credit. Christopher said he was also instructed to provide the lender with his most recent payslips, information about his monthly expenses and other affairs. This helped them to determine his capacity, or ability to successfully repay the loan.

“To determine a borrower’s capacity, lenders typically evaluate the potential borrower’s income, debt-to-income ratio, and employment status,” Mrs Miller explained.

The information Christopher provided also helped him to pass the capital test which lenders use to see if a borrower is committed enough to contribute some of their own funds.

“Capital speaks to the amount of risk that a borrower is willing to take on the transaction and whether there are any funds in reserve to support continued servicing of the debt in the event of an interruption of income,” Mrs Miller explained.

As for conditions, Ms Miller said this refers to the terms of the loan and could also take into account the economic conditions that exist at the time of the application. Some loan terms and conditions include the interest rate, tenure, and method of payment.

One should use credit responsibly and primarily for enhancing one’s

credit, as they would be considered low risk applicants. Lenders would, therefore, have no hesitation in approving the finance they seek.

As part of his loan process, Christopher noted that he had to provide the lender with some information required as part of the Know our Customer (K C) procedure, which included his driver’s licence. He also had to provide documentation about the car he was purchasing and give approval for the institution to apply for his credit report, which provided the history of his payments and his credit score.

Collateral, Mrs Miller further noted, helps a borrower to secure the financing needed. She said it is often the item a person is seeking funding to purchase. “Loans backed by collateral are those we refer to as secured loans, and if a borrower defaults on payment, the lender can dispose of the collateral to settle any outstanding sums owed. This is really what makes these types of loans less risky for lenders.”

For an unsecured loan, you don’t need collateral, but she noted that the interest on those loans is higher and the borrower needs to have reasonably good credit history.

Christopher’s auto loan was approved, which meant he passed the Five Cs of Credit test, and he recently secured his vehicle, which he said has made “a world of difference.”

“It’s really important for us to learn how this credit appraisal process works because with this knowledge we can understand and even improve our creditworthiness,” the newly minted car owner acknowledged.

Mrs Miller said although financial institutions may evaluate the Five Cs of Credit differently, knowing about them can help people make sound financial choices to manage their finances, thus improving their chances of successfully accessing credit.

Hilret Hanson’s life is fuelled by the rev of engines and the thrill of motor racing. From his early days being a race car driver to his current project of building a racing car, it is quite evident that his passion for motor cars runs deep.

An xecutive and roup Industrial Relations Specialist at The Jamaica National roup, Mr Hanson’s journey into motor racing began in 1989, sparked by the in uence of his mechanic who subsequently became a close friend. Together, they ventured into the world of drag racing, competing at informal meets at ernamfield in Clarendon and Jamwest in Westmoreland. He reminisced how he and his friends would head to the drag race meets in a convoy of two or three cars every last Sunday.

The ultimate goal for the car is not only to be used on the racetrack but also to be enjoyed on the road safely,” said Sean.

Mr Hanson is also making plans to convert a second car along with Sean to be used for recreational purposes.

“I am going to buy a standard shift car, put in racing seats, sound system and turbo the engine. I like a good sound system in the vehicle I drive,” he related, adding that he is currently learning how to install sound systems by watching YouTube videos.

Mr Hanson related that the knowledge of racing and how to control a skid saved his life twice

“At these drag meets you’ll use your personal car to challenge somebody. It is a quarter mile race. I got beaten by everybody because my car at the time wasn’t that powerful, but that didn’t make me feel like a loser. I was thoroughly enjoying myself,” he said with a chuckle. “It is a stress buster,” he maintained, adding that he has never raced at a formal circuit meet.

Mr Hanson related that the knowledge of racing and how to control a skid saved his life twice. Coincidentally, both incidents occurred on Spur Tree Hill, a roadway highly prone to crashes. The car spun out of control hitting a retaining wall. The first instance was caused by an oil spill and the second was due to heavy rain.

With retirement looming on the hori on, he is gearing up for a new chapter in his life - one that revolves around his lifelong love for cars. He has already embarked on an ambitious project of building a race car with his son, Sean, a trained auto technician working with ATL Automotive roup and who is being trained to work on electric cars.

Three years ago, Mr Hanson brought a 1999 white K Honda Civic car which he scrapped and is customi ing for drag racing. He has so far replaced the original engine with a powerful Honda K24. With Sean’s expertise and Mr Hanson’s racing experience, the father-son duo is taking their time to ensure every detail is perfect.

For Sean, he is yet to see another person with such great enthusiasm for cars as his father. He said his own love for motor vehicles was as a result of the exposure given to him by his father. “The part I take from him the most is the attention to details.”

He pointed out that the customi ed car is nearly 70 per cent complete. “Hopefully we can get it done by the end of this year or early next year.

The JN xecutive’s love for cars extends beyond the racing tracks. He is a self-taught mechanic who can tackle any repair job.

“ very tool you can think of to fix a car I have in my garage. I find it so nice to pull down everything, service it and fix it up back,” he said.

He pointed out that his interest in auto mechanics came about as a result of challenges he had finding a reliable mechanic when he owned his first car, a two-door Ford scort. When he almost crashed because the mechanic failed to fix the brake properly, he took matters into his own hands.

“That same week I went to Sangster’s Book Store, and I bought a book called Ford Escort Repairs. I remember going on a trip to Florida and I went into Walmart and bought a whole set of tools. For the time I had that car, I worked on it myself until I found that friend who was a very good mechanic.”

Mr Hanson drives a company-issued silver 2017 BMW 3 which has a 2L turbo charge engine. Recently, he bought his wife, Sherrie, a dark grey 2023 Toyota Rai e car, which has a three-cylinder turbo charge engine that he describes as a “peppy” vehicle that he enjoys driving on weekends.

He said his ultimate dream car is a Ferrari.

“Ferrari is into Formula One. They build extremely good, fast and safe cars,” he reasoned.

Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist The Jamaica National Group

Sean at work on the EK Honda Civic

Journalism

Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist

The Jamaica National Group

It is hardly any surprise that Jovan Johnson, Senior Staff Reporter at The leaner and a two-time recipient of the prestigious Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) Journalist of the ear, was destined for a career in journalism from an early age.

rowing up in a cricket-loving household, Jovan’s initial fascination with the world of media, was sparked by his love for commentating on cricket matches held in his community and at school, which served as a platform to hone his storytelling skills. He also fondly recalls that the news was often discussed at home.

“My family was also big on current affairs and issues happening across the world. We would have big discussions about them,” he pointed out. His interest in journalism was also in uenced by his mother, an avid reader of the Star newspaper, who ensured he got access to every issue of that newspaper. At dwin Allen High School, in Frankfield, Clarendon, he often immersed himself in The leaner at the library and assisted a teacher with selling copies to fellow students daily. His commitment was brought to the attention of The leaner, which rewarded young Jovan with branded gifts.

What also solidified his journalism passion, was the opportunity he got to visit The leaner as part of a school excursion. This firsthand experience he received in the newsroom further fuelled his love for journalism.

Jovan went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media and Communication at the Caribbean School of Media and Communication at The University of the West Indies (UWI). Initially, he was accepted into both Law and Journalism programmes.

“It wasn’t a hard decision because journalism was what I felt the energy to do and the passion and the drive. That’s what I wanted to do,” said Jovan, who earned a scholarship from the Jamaica National Building Society, now The Jamaica National roup, in the final year of his studies.

He later went on to become a Chevening Scholar in 2017 and pursued a Master of Science degree in development management at the London School of Economics and Political Science in the United Kingdom. Prior to that, he earned a master’s degree in development studies from the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and conomic Studies at UWI.

In 2021, Jovan proved his journalistic mettle when he emerged Journalist of the ear shortly after returning to journalism following a brief stint as Assistant Press and Information Officer at the uropean Commission.

“It really meant a lot because I went up against some really top quality, high performing colleagues who did ama ing work. It was also the first time I was being nominated, so I was very nervous.”

In 2023, he repeated the Journalist of the ear achievement. The judges remarked that his work was comparable with the best of journalistic work globally. qually meaningful was his first Caribbean Media Award, sponsored by the United Nations Office for Disaster Relief in 2022, for his story highlighting the inadequate regime for testing building blocks in Jamaica, which resulted in consumers receiving poor quality products.

Johnson with his 2021 Journalist of the Year award

As an investigative journalist, Jovan fearlessly delves into issues of governance, transparency, and public affairs.

“It generally means you have to dig a little harder to get things. It is not necessarily a story that is going to be turned around in a day or two or even a week. It involves conducting very deep interviews and researching. Doing the deep dive allows for a significantly greater appreciation of the issues and how to write about the issues in a nuanced and impactful manner,” he explained.

One of Jovan’s investigative stories that commanded the public’s attention was the Stocks Securities Limited (SSL) multimillion-dollar fraud that was unearthed in 2023. This compelling story, which was carried by many global media houses, earned him the award for Best Breaking News story at the PAJ Awards in 2023.

With just over a decade of journalistic work, Jovan pointed out that the story that he will always remember is the story headlined I Sat There with My Dead Baby in My Hand’- a sombre tale about inadequate outpatient procedures for newborns at the Black River Hospital in St li abeth, which a mother blamed for the death of her baby. The story earned him the Carl Wint Award for Best Print Human Interest Feature at the PAJ awards also in 2023.

“It was such a horrible experience for Shakera Morgan who insisted she wanted to tell her story. I admire that strength of character in wanting to bring attention to the issue so that other parents don’t suffer similarly, in the middle of your grief. That takes courage. I will never forget that.”

Damion Mitchell, a former ditor at The leaner, described Jovan as a journalist who maintains high ethical standards.

“ ver since we crossed paths when he started working at The leaner on work experience, I thought he was a cut above the rest. His discipline and mannerisms – you could see that he came off ‘good table’. He had parents who paid attention to his upbringing. In addition to his fine interest in the craft of journalism, he has a standout of all those I would have assessed as journalists while in training. He’s someone who really listens, he appreciates wise counsel and does engage in critical thinking.”

Communication is not just a profession for Jovan; it is a way of life. Alongside his distinguished career as a journalist, he is also a part-time lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica and an adjunct lecturer at The UWI in communications-based studies, and he does voiceovers. His wife also works in the communication field. Together, they are the parents of a three-year-old son.

Jovan

J’nesis Wright Brings New Twist to Vacationing in Jamaica

a riena im son, Communication Officer

The Jamaica National Group

A Prime Minister outh Awardee for nation building, philanthropist, and cancer survivor, at 32 years old, J’nesis Wright has moulded her own personal travel experiences to deliver dream vacations lush with luxury and the excitement of travelling abroad without ever leaving yaad’. And, it’s the kind of wanderlust local hodophiles’ can indulge in on a budget through her Farrin’ in Jamaica experience.

After sharing her own travel experiences across 14 countries on social media platform, TikTok, Ms Wright, who migrated from Jamaica at 13 years-old to the United States to live with her father, gained instant engagement and more than 15,000 followers in only a month. With a growing ock seeking her advice and travel services constantly, she decided to establish her own travel company which she named Isle and Luxury in 2023, playing creatively with the phonetics to communicate her brand and the experiences she intended to offer, including her specially curated destination tours dubbed ‘Farrin’ in Jamaica, among other travel services.

“It took me a while to figure out what would set me apart from everyone else as I believed the field was saturated. Then I asked myself, What would Isle and Luxury offer that is different or what would distinguish me from other people?’ so then ‘Farrin’ in Jamaica came about. Several Jamaicans haven’t even been to the 14 parishes and don’t know about places they can visit in Jamaica, or some of them don’t have the money to visit other countries outside of Jamaica. So, then I said if they can’t leave Jamaica, I’ll bring foreign’ to them,” she explained.

a grand time. We personalised everything for the trip to give the feeling of being in Bali- the look and feel of the villa, the Bali-inspired massages and oating breakfast- everything,” the entrepreneur explained.

Some of the activities included a trip to Mayfield Falls, embarking on the Rasta Safari Tours, a trip to Booby Cay private island, dinner at The Caves Restaurant (similar to the experience provided in Bali), a special Bali-inspired oating breakfast, along with a personal photographer for the entire trip.

...if they can’t leave Jamaica, I’ll bring ‘foreign’ to them

Each trip mimics details of a travel experience in another country for a fraction of the cost and is available for group travel, as well as for people who only wish to purchase the itinerary for their own personal travel. The one-of-a-kind experience is also open to Jamaicans living in the Diaspora, as well as non-Jamaicans who want to experience another side of Jamaica.

Ms Wright added that there are a few itineraries available on her website for purchase, including those for other countries.

In March, the co-owner of Mayfield Falls in Westmoreland hosted the first of five Farrin’ in Jamaica trips slated for this year, which she subtitled the Bali in Jamaica’ experience.

“The first staging of Farrin’ in Jamaica was successful. We had a total of eight persons who stayed at Idle Awhile illas in Negril, including two Americans who were visiting Jamaica for the first time. They had

Commending the staff and hospitality at Idle Awhile illas as excellent, Ms Wright described their specially prepared Indonesian-Jamaican menu as simply “ama ing.”

“The service at Idle Awhile illas was truly exceptional, and the staff was warm and attentive. The property exudes a delightful Bali feel and is aesthetically pleasing in every detail. avian Roach, the eneral Manager, leads a friendly and hospitable team, including butlers Ryan and Miss Wendy, who delivered world-class service. Chefs Jody and Robert prepared the best Bali Jamaican-infused dishes. And if you book the villa through Isle and Luxury, you can get up to 25 off your stay,” she said.

An advocate for local tourism, the Salem, Runaway Bay, St Ann native said the goal of the trip was to build relationships with and support local businesses, such as vendors, tourist attractions, transportation staff and other players in the local tourism ecosystem.

With Bali in Jamaica being only the first of five in her Farrin’ in Jamaica experiences this year, the mother of four shared that others on the hori on are Cape Town in Jamaica and ietnam in Jamaica. Another Bali tour is also being planned.

A project management professional by trade, Ms Wright resigned from her role as Director of Major Accounts and Fleet at a large online car auction company to establish her travel outfit in 2023 and hasn’t looked back. The business has been growing well, recently inking a partnership with a tour company which has locations in an ibar, Tan ania; ambia and in Kenya - countries to which she will also be planning group trips.

Not up to a full travel experience? Among Isle and Luxury’s offerings is also a luxurious “Dinna Pon De Riva” private dining experience at Mayfield Falls, for two or more persons, which she says has been a hit, especially with visitors from overseas.

“The first year we provided supplies to 14,000 children and then the following years, we focused primarily on schools and students on the Path Programme in St Ann because I wanted to contribute to the development of my parish. Select students who were heading to high school also received a scholarship, in partnership with the NCB Foundation,” she explained.

“Isle and Luxury is one-stop shop for everything travel. If it’s just airfare, if it’s just hotel, if it’s just a rental car, if you just need some consulting, we are able to provide those services to you,” she stated.

Additionally, she plans and tailors full itineraries for persons who wish to travel to any country of their choice.

Back to J’nesis

A philanthropist, Miss Wright also operated the 1Jam 1Love Foundation from 2014 to 2018, where she partnered with other non-governmental organisations to provide children in Jamaica with back-to-school supplies. Her efforts resulted in her being presented with the Prime Minister outh Award for nation building in 2019.

Ms Wright’s love for travel emerged after her diagnosis with cervical cancer- a battle she fought up to stage three of the disease, when she successfully had surgery.

“When I turned 30, I felt renewed and I told myself that until times expires for me, whatever happens for the rest of the year, I am committing to myself to go somewhere every month or every other month because I don’t know what the rest of the year looks like and I don’t know if I’m gonna make it to my next birthday,” she shared.

“She added: If you’re diagnosed with cancer, it’s very important that you don’t go through the process alone. If you have people who love you and want to be there for you, it’s very important that you tell them exactly what’s going. No one knew that I was diagnosed or that I advanced from stage one to stage three. It was not until I was scheduled for surgery that I told my friends and family. What if it didn’t work out I would have robbed my friends and family of spending time with me,” she said.

She plans to promote the “Farrin in Jamaica” experience to more nonJamaican visitors who want to experience Jamaica differently.

a riena im son, Communication Officer

The Jamaica National Group

one are the days when prospective couples would only meet at an event, work, business place or through a mutual friend. Nowadays, online platforms have changed the dating scene, with many persons meeting their partners on dating sites and social media platforms.

Thirty-two-year-old Marketing Specialist, Jane Campbell met her boyfriend of three years on the dating site, Tinder.

“This was during CO ID. Jamaica doesn’t necessarily have a dating culture, but I really wanted to date and get to know multiple people so I joined Tinder. The good options were far and few. I swiped left and right until the list based on my criteria started over,” she said.

She noted that the concern of whether she was talking to a real person or being catfished was always present.

Finally, her partner’s profile along with photos caught her eye.

“We talked via the app first. I looked him up on social media. After a few days, we exchanged numbers and planned a lunch date,” she noted.

opened up more avenues for them. She noted that in the past people met potential partners through their friends, but with online dating, people are able to access persons who are living close to them in Jamaica and people who are living overseas.

A downside to that she says, is not being able to do a background check through friends or other people who may know the person.

“With online dating, a lot of it is taking people at face value, a lot of it is trying to decide if ‘yuh spirit tek dem’, using your intuition to decide how you feel about the person so it limits that ability to check whether a person is safe or whether what they are saying about themselves is true because you are not dating people from the same circle as you,” Ms Moore pointed out.

With online dating, a lot of it is taking people at face value, a lot of it is trying to decide if

‘yuh spirit tek dem’

Similar to Jane Campbell’s thoughts, Life Coach and ender Studies Lecturer, Carla Moore, believes that culturally, Jamaicans have a “talk and deh” approach to dating.

“ ou’d meet a person, you talk to them for a while and after a while, you and them are together. We didn’t have a very active dating scene where a person would be dating multiple people at the same time, you know, kinda figuring out which person they’re really into. That’s something that I see happening more now. It’s not something that used to happen in the past,” she explained.

She believes that online platforms have changed the dating scene in Jamaica because it has

In identifying red ags when dating online, Ms Moore said that daters should look out for persons who love bomb’ and want to move too fast, those without pictures, persons with group pictures where the participant is hard to identify, people who show signs that they might be abusive or possessive, those who give sad stories too early because they want to ask for money, and others who want to move off the app too early.

She also said people should get to know their potential interests digitally or virtually first before meeting them in person, exercise time, patience, lower and set realistic expectations and pay attention to their gut feelings.

“I think it’s useful to have different experiences with the person so switch up the types of activities that you do with them to get an idea of their character before you get too close to them. I would also consider safety when you’re meeting up with someone you met online. Ensure that your first meeting is in a public place and let someone know,” she advised.

Travelling Abroad for the First Time?

Here are 10 Tips to Enhance Your Experience!

Kimberley Henry-Atkinson, Communication Specialist

The Jamaica National Group

1 Research Your Destination

Before you set off, take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Learn a little about the local culture, customs, and traditions. Familiarise yourself with important landmarks, attractions, and safety guidelines including where a major hospital or police station is just in case of any emergency.

2 Plan Your Itinerary

ou know the saying, “If you fail to plan you plan to fail” The same goes for travel our itinerary doesn’t need to be rigid try to create a exible itinerary outlining the activities and attractions you’d like to experience during your trip. That way you make the most of your time. Be realistic about your time constraints and prioritise your must-see destinations.

3 Try not to Overpack

It is natural to want to carry everything even seasoned travellers have trouble with overpacking. My philosophy about packing is as long as I have my clothing, toiletries, medications, and travel documents, anything else I leave can be easily grabbed when I get there. Consider versatile clothing options that can be mixed and matched for different occasions. Also, be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination.

4 Download useful travel apps

In the age of technology, apps are a godsend for providing ease in almost every area of life this includes travel My favourite travel apps are Booking.com for hotels, Skyscanner for ight deals, oogle Translate for conversations, Uber for on-the-ground transportation, oogle Maps/Wa e for directions, and a currency converter so you can check the currency each day. It would also be smart to download the app of the airline you are travelling with. Another one of my favourites is the Airalo App, outlined below in Tip 5.

5 Stay Connected

Ensure you have reliable means of communication during your trip. I recommend purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival or my preferred way activating an e-Sim on your mobile phone. I’ve used the Airalo App on four trips so far, and it provides reliable data connection for me so I can use WhatsApp, Uber and my navigation apps. ou can use my code KIMB R8346 for 3 off your first purchase.

6

Learn Basic Phrases

If travelling somewhere where the native language is different from your own, learning basic phrases can really enhance your travel experience. ven just a few words or expressions can go a long way in showing respect. Locals will appreciate your effort and it can lead to more meaningful interactions. Use oogle Translate for help

7 Be Mindful of The Time of Year You Choose to Travel

If you have children or prefer to rally the family for an adventure, then summertime, June August, provides the best opportunity as school will be out and parents will be looking for ways to channel all that bu ing energy. ou can always look for “Summer Travel Deals” from airlines and book accordingly.

Also consider travelling during off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and high prices. The “shoulder months” are the best times in my opinion and that is usually March April (early May in some places) and September October (early November in some places).

8 Inform your bank of your travel plans

This will only take 15 minutes. Call your bank and inform them that there will be an increased use of your card outside of your usual country. Using your credit card is the safest thing to do while travelling because there is an added level of security provided by your bank. In case of any emergency, JN Bank offers 24/7 access to our agents via our toll-free number, (888) 991 4065/6.

9 It’s Important to have cash on you…

I always recommend travelling with at least US 500-700 in cash on you. A lot of the time, cash will come in handy if you grab something from a convenience store, paying for taxis, and most importantly, tipping. Try to get smaller bills as best as possible dollar bills, fives and tens. And always change to the local currency. When you land, change about 50-100 at the airport to start and then find a cambio with a better rate after.

1 Secure Travel Insurance:

Travel insurance is essential for protecting yourself against unexpected emergencies such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. I can’t recommend this enough – it’s such a small price to pay for peace of mind while traveling. JN eneral Insurance offers full coverage travel insurance you may reach out to a representative to discuss your options. As the saying goes, “prevention beta dan cure”

Women’s Centre in St Bess Gets a Boost

ionne ose, Communication Officer

The Jamaica National Group

The Santa Cru , St li abeth branch of the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation is providing a more comfortable environment for pregnant girls and adolescent mothers who attend the centre.

“Since the JN Foundation donation, we have had increased attendance for the Santa Cru outreach branch. Prior to having received the donation, we were just coming out of CO ID-19, so our attendance rate had fallen,” informed Donna Burton, former Centre Manager of the Women’s Centre Santa Cru branch.

Through the JN Circle Santa Cru chapter, the Santa Cru , St li abeth branch of the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation received an assortment of furniture and equipment in 2022 that outfitted the newly constructed centre, which provides educational and counselling support to pregnant girls and adolescent mothers under 17 years old.

The Centre received chairs and tables for its classrooms; laptops, a printer, and a television set; cribs for the nursery; a refrigerator and microwave for the kitchen, along with paintings and an office file cabinet.

“With the new building and subsequent donations from the JN Foundation, we were able to provide better assistance at Santa Cru , and as such, we found that they were coming out to classes more and participating in their counselling sessions,” she said.

Mrs Burton said the donation further enabled the Centre to resume face-toface classes after CO ID-19 in a more comfortable environment,” she added.

“We immediately identified the Women’s Centre an educational institution that focuses on giving high-school dropouts a second chance to fulfil their potential and make meaningful contributions to their own lives and to society at large,” she added.

Lorna Sinclair (second right), Business Relationship and Sales Manager for the JN Bank Santa Cruz and Junction branches, presents Donna Burton (third right), former Centre Manager at Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, Santa Cruz branch, with one of the laptops that were donated to the centre. Dawnette Pryce-Thompson (left), project coordinator at the JN Foundation; Marjorie Gillette (right), JN Circle Santa Cruz Member; and ladies who attend the Centre, share in the moment.

One of the goals is to identify needs and galvanise the necessary resources to satisfy those needs

Marva dwards of the JN Circle Santa Cru chapter said that the JN Circle was happy to recommend the centre for grant funding.

“The Santa Cru Circle is committed to working and making a positive difference in the lives of people and the environment in which we reside. One of the goals is to identify needs and galvanise the necessary resources to satisfy those needs,” she said.

Lorna Sinclair, Business Relationship and Sales Manager for JN Bank’s Santa Cru and Junction branches, noted, “at the JN roup, we are about community development and enriching the lives of individuals in whatever way we can. We pride ourselves on saying we put people first’ as we seek to build relationships and leverage resources.”

“We have to help build the community in which we operate,” she added, pointing out that, over the years, the JN team has undertaken several projects in the parish through the former JN Bank Member Advisory Committee, and now the JN Circle.

Dawnette Pryce-Thompson, Project Coordinator at the JN Foundation, said the organisation was committed to fulfilling the needs of the Centre.

“We are happy that the young ladies are now able to learn in a comfortable environment as they continue their education,” she said.

Mrs Burton said 99 per cent of the young ladies who attend the Centre have gone on to be re-integrated in the formal school system or learn a skill through the HEART Trust/NSTA and have been doing extremely well.

Visit www.myjncircle.com to learn more about the JN Circle activities and learn how to join one of the 16 chapters. There are 14 JN Circle chapters located in Jamaica and one each in the UK and Canada.

3 Red Flags in a Relationship

Most of us have heard the term, red ags, used in sports when a player receives a serious warning and is taken out of the game. But the term is also used to signal problematic behaviour on the part of couples. In a relationship, we expect to encounter some difficulties along the way, but when those difficulties become persistent roadblocks, we need to pay attention.

Red Flag Number 1 – Early Troubles

In the first six months the relationship is just starting, and it is unusual to have difficulties at this point. Some psychologists believe that the first two years are a honeymoon period and there are few problems to deal with. Others think that relationship are based on overcoming obstacles, but if those obstacles appear in the first two years, we should consider this red ag number one.

Pay attention to the disputes that crop up. These are likely to be about core values of how you spend your time and invest your emotions. Ask yourself: Are you and your partner willingly giving the relationship the time that is needed to grow in trust and intimacy

Red Flag Number 2 – Love Bombing as Control

We are obviously very attered when our partner wants our attention and demands that we spend plenty of time with them. It feels ama ing to think that someone could be so in love with you that they want all your time and want to shower you with gifts and gestures of love. What’s wrong with that you ask If your partner does not have a sufficiently independent life to also allow you time for yourself and your interests, this excessive attention could soon turn into obsessive control.

The partner who cannot bear your independence is often one who needs to have you under surveillance. Look out for what is currently being called, love bombing’. This is when your partner showers you with excessive attention and romantic gestures at the start of the relationship that makes you think that no one else matters in the world. It cannot be sustained, and as the partner gets tired of showering you with attention, especially if you are not overwhelmed and grateful for it, they start being cruel and unkind, reminding you of all the ways in

Karen Carpenter PhD, CST, PGCHE Psychologist/Clinical Sexologist/Research Consultant

which they showed you how great TH are. When you act surprised about this change in attitude, they will become angry and distant, until you find yourself alone in a relationship. ou are now committed to this person, but they have turned their attention to a new love interest, where the love bombing starts all over again.

Red Flag Number 3 – Feeling Unsafe

When it comes to thinking you can trust your partner, you have to feel safe emotionally, physically or psychologically. We know that trust is vital in any kind of relationship whether business or pleasure. ven more important then, is the trust between romantic partners. If your partner’s behaviour leads you to feel unsafe in any of the three ways we mentioned, slow down and figure out what is causing your discomfort. It could be unpredictable or inconsistent behaviour now you see me, now you don’t.

Another reason for distrust in romantic relationships is feeling that your emotions don’t count – gaslighting and blame from your partner. And third, psychological discomfort, when partners don’t feel connected due to poor communication and repeated misunderstandings. This often feels as if both partners are speaking completely different languages. The red ags in relationships are not always a sign of doom, but on the other hand partners too often ignore them only to find themselves in a lifelong relationship that does not match their early expectations of love, understanding and passion. The red ags are there to make us slow down, take our time to understand the other person better, and to decide if you actually share enough core values to make a committed relationship last.

Dr. Carpenter is the author of the book, Love & Sex: The Basics, available on amazon.com. She is a licensed Counselling Psychologist in Jamaica and is Florida Board Certi ed. You can contact her at: drkarencarpenter.com.

Tuesdays at 9 pm on Facebook Live at https://www.facebook.com/LoveandSexJamaica

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Don’t Let Mishaps Spoil Your Trip. Get Travel Insurance!

Whether you are travelling overseas for business or pleasure, unforeseen events can quickly derail your plans and drain your nances. That is why having travel insurance is not just smart, it is essential. Having travel insurance will help you navigate these challenges and provide you with the peace of mind that you have protection against unexpected events like this. JNGI travel insurance

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• Medical emergencies

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• Curtailment (cutting short your trip)

• Personal accident

• Personal liability and catastrophe (disaster)

Don’t let unforeseen circumstances ruin your travel experience or leave you with hefty bills. Invest in travel insurance and embark on your adventures con dently, knowing that you have a reliable safety net wherever your journeys take you. Access your JNGI travel insurance by sending an email to info@jngijamaica.com. Our dedicated sta is ready to assist you.

2-4 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica www.jngroup.com I corporatecommunications@jngroup.com I 876-926-1344-9

876.571.5214

marcehilton07@gmail.com