Contents Message from the Governor-General
5
29
Sandra Ramjit
30
Congress Programme
Message from the Prime Minister
33
R. Danvers Williams
6
Message from the Leader of the Opposition
33
Workshop Speakers
7
Cheryl Lander-Rolle
Message from the Congress Director
Joseph Sidaros
7
34
Alan S. Lurty
EDITOR’S Note
8
Habits of Highly Effective
Meet the Congress Committee
36
JAIFA’s Secretariat
9
Meet the current CARAIFA Executives
10
Message from CARAIFA’s President
11
Message from the CARAIFA Secretary General
12
Contents
4
Insurance Agents
42 CARAIFA
What is CARAIFA?
44
The Genesis of CARAIFA
CARAIFA Sales Congresses
45
CARAIFA Past Congresses
46
Meet our Past Presidents
48
CARAIFA Hall of Famers
Message from the President of JAIFA
50
2018 Nominee
13
Message from MDRT Zone Chair
51
CARAIFA FOUNDATION
17
52
CARAIFA FOUNDATION:
Retirement Planning Don’t Wait until it’s too late
A Journey Through Time
20
Q&A Top Insurance Agents
56
Advertisers must protect, support
24
Main Platform Speakers
Alicia P. Hussey
Bonnie Godsman
25
Sanjay Tolani
Damion Crawford
26
Belinda Frederica Morrison
Marcus T. Henderson
27
Rev. Dr. Carla Dunbar
28
Fritz Hire Augustus Pinnock
traditional media
Editorial & Production Carla Ashley Grant, Monica Robotham and Yonique Folkes Graphic & Layout Designer Oneil Banton
ISSN 0799-2718
Empowered to Rise
3
Message from the Governor-General
I extend greetings to delegates attending the 32nd Sales Congress of the Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARAIFA) and offer a special welcome to those who have journeyed to Jamaica for this occasion. Financial security and independence are long-term goals which are best achieved through careful planning and strategic management of assets and resources, including the earning potential of cultural resources, skills and talents. A key component in this process is financial literacy which, if applied correctly, will ensure that dreams do not remain elusive but are attained in a manner that is sustainable. Since inception in 1977, CARAIFA
building a cadre of professionals
I, therefore, welcome the focus
in the insurance sector who are
which CARAIFA, through its
certified to offer a broad range
foundation, is placing on the
of advice, products and services
health and wellness of Caribbean
in financial management. The
nationals. With high incidences
guidance provided by financial
of non-communicable diseases
advisers in areas such as insurance,
predicted to be the next wave of
investment and estate management
disaster for the region, every effort
is paramount to financial health and
must be made to reduce the risk
augurs well not only for individuals,
through public information and
but the overall gross national
awareness and research funding.
product of member countries.
This initiative is, therefore, a step in the right direction.
At a time when the region is closely linked to the global financial market,
I applaud the work of CARAIFA
the guidance provided by your
in its pursuit of excellence in the
members is even more important to
financial sector, and wish the
achieving individual and corporate
association a successful conference
success.
and anniversary celebration.
As past experiences have taught
His Exellency The Most Hon. Sir
us here in the Caribbean, any
Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD,
fallout in the global financial
KSt.J
market could transmit to serious setbacks for the region. The size of our economies and their vulnerability to natural disasters must also be given consideration in any financial planning endeavour, so that countries can establish a base from which to grow their way out of disasters rather than depend heavily on aid and grants. Simply put, the region must be ‘Empowered to Rise’ as your theme for this conference states.
has been at the vanguard of 4
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Message from the Prime Minister protect them against vulnerabilities.
The celebration of 40 years, as well
Several factors, including economic
as the extensive coverage created
downturns - whether personal or
by CARAIFA advisors, encourages
business related, can significantly
all of us as Jamaicans to join our
reduce or compromise the ability
regional families in attaining the
to provide a buffer or safety net
best for our people. Let us work
for the most adversely affected.
assiduously to ensure we are all
It is, therefore, key that measures
‘Empowered to Rise’ in 2018 and
be implemented to ensure the
beyond.
protection of both the insurer and the insured.
I wish CARAIFA all the very best as you celebrate 40 years and spur
‘Empowered to Rise’ is a noble and timely theme which seeks to call on aspirations to excel and succeed. I commend and congratulate the Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARAIFA) on your 40th Anniversary Celebrations and 32nd Annual Sales Congress, and for choosing a theme which calls your professionals to greater action. I have no doubt that with the vast and extensive human resource, skills and competence, CARAIFA is equal to the task, giving the highest standard of service to clients and membership alike. The insurance industry is crucial and persons rely on it particularly during times of accidents, extraordinary events or catastrophes. How these disasters and risks are strategically and financially planned for will build
My administration is keen on
your partners, internal and external
continuing dialogue on issues
stakeholders to aspire to excel and
such as climate change and
produce the best they can.
global warming with our regional partners, highlighting the present
The Most Hon. Andrew Holness,
and future ominous threat to the
ON, MP
Caribbean and, ultimately, the
Prime Minister
extensive operational elements of the insurance industry, especially within the ambit of CARAIFA. There is also need to refocus efforts on priorities engaging the use of technology within a pricing and marketing mechanism which reflect the nuances of the vulnerabilities specific to the region. Indeed, there is also need for a partnership approach to public education about the insurance industry while, at the same time, promoting best practices for healthier lifestyles, environmental care and preservation of life in times of disaster.
confidence in the wider society to Empowered to Rise
5
Message from the Leader of the Opposition to empower those Jamaicans who have been left behind and provide them with the motivation to grasp all opportunities for a better life. Over the years, volunteerism has provided a major plank for Jamaica’s development and the work of the CARAIFA Foundation to provide critical health care to members of the Caribbean community is an effort worthy of emulation. Let me add my congratulations to the Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARAIFA) as they celebrate their 40th anniversary and welcome the Caribbean delegates to the 32nd Annual Sales Congress.
Let me wish for you a successful congress and the continued progress of your association. Dr. The Hon. Peter Phillips President of the People’s National Party & Leader of the Opposition
Let me also commend JAIFA on your sustained programme of education and orientation for life underwriters and financial advisors which is indispensable to the growth of public confidence in the services offered by the members of JAIFA. Simultaneously, your efforts to facilitate interaction and cooperation of the membership will go a long way to the building of cohesion with your organization. I note with interest the theme you have chosen, ‘Empowered to Rise’, which could very well be the theme for a national campaign as we seek 6
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Message from the Congress Director Dear colleagues, I am delighted to be leading the team charged with the responsibility of executing the 32nd CARAIFA Congress to commemorate the 40th anniversary of our beloved organization. This congress is very nostalgic for me as
EDITOR’S Note
I was around when CALU was formed, and I knew a number of the architects personally. Our team is leaving no stones unturned in delivering to all who are in attendance, an experience they
As we celebrate CARAIFA’s 40th and 32nd Annual Sales
will remember and cherish for many years to come.
Congress, our aim is to ensure that we sharpen your
The congress offers professional development
skills, get you motivated, inspired and rejuvenated, and,
opportunities from high calibre presentations from
at the same time, guarantee a congress full of fun and
the outstanding line-up of individuals who will share
excitement.
regional and international best practices with you all. We will also have a mix of personal development
This year’s congress will assist you in realising your full
sessions, along with a level of motivation that will leave
potential and abilities. Our theme, ‘Empowered to Rise’,
you feeling ten feet tall, and ready to take on the world
urges each member to rise, while lifting others. It is
as ‘we empower you to rise’.
also a reminder that we all have the potential to rise. I commend each member for making a conscious effort to
Let us not forget that you will be in, arguably, the
surround yourself with positive, nourishing and uplifting
entertainment mecca of the Caribbean, Montego Bay,
people. By attending this congress, it is quite evident
and a full range of authentic Jamaican and Caribbean
that you are ready to have a life-changing experience.
entertainment to suit your every taste awaits you, along with the delectable treats from the Hilton Rose
I must also express my appreciation and commendation
Hall’s repertoire of fine dining.
to the hard- working committee and the administrative staff who have ensured that this congress lives up to
We have gone all out to ensure that the congress is
your expectations. It was truly a great experience
worth your investment of time and money, so at the
working with them all.
end of it all we can say with one accord, it was good for us to be here - “One Love, One Heart”.
Let’s celebrate and get ready to rise! Orville Johnson, OD,BSc. FLMI Carla Ashley-Grant LUTCF, MFA, SLU
Congress Director
Congress Magazine Director
Empowered to Rise
7
Meet the Congress Committee
From left: President of JAIFA - Monica Robotham, Speakers, Topics, Programme, Workshop Co-chairman – Melia McKitty Plummer, Magazine Chairman – Carla Ashley Grant, JAIFA’s Secretariat – Yonique Folkes, Aleathea Davis, Registration & Tokens Chairman – Valerie Farquharson, Hospitality Chairman – Grace Martin, JAIFA’s Secretariat – Dannett Knight, Ceremonies, Operations & Protocol- Ann Green–Davis, Mall Chairman – Joel Dixon, CARAIFA’s Secretary General Marcelle Fenton, Technical Consultant – Thomas “Tommy” James, JAIFA’s Secretariat – Patrick Worghs, Technical – Randolph McLean, Finance Chairman- Richard Thelwell , Marketing, Sales & Public Relations Chairman – Nehemiah Perry, Speakers, Topics, Programme, Workshop Chairman – Leroy Dallas and Congress Director – Orville Johnson. (Missing from photo) Hotel Logistics/Guest Experience - Marcia Richards, Entertainment Chair - Otis Hamilton
JAIFA’s Secretariat
From left: Yonique Folkes, Patrick Worghs, Aleathea Davis and Dannett Knight
8
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Meet the current CARAIFA Executives
Wynthorp Catwell
Alicia Birch
President
Vice President
Immediate Past President
Marcelle Fenton
William “Nat� Wiltshire
Pauline McKenzie-Fairclough
Secretary General
Education Council Chairman
Foundation Chair
Maxim Marquez
Hugh Meredith
Andre Boyde
Gloria King-Kirton
Public Relations & Communications
Marketing Director
Regional Congress Coordinator
Empowered to Rise
9
Message from CARAIFA’s President
‘‘If a man is called a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven played music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.” - Martin Luther King Jr. My fellow Caribbean Colleagues, Delegates, Honourable Hall of Fame Inductees, Distinguished Speakers and Presenters, Fraternal Friends and Associates, on this very historic occasion as we come together for the 32nd Annual Sales Congress, ‘Empowered to Rise’, sponsored by CALU/ CARAIFA who will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year as well, it gives me great pleasure and it is my great privilege as the current President of CARAIFA to welcome you to what should be a memorable and life-enhancing experience.
10
Some 40 years ago when the visionary and indeed legendary members of the various associations came together to lay the foundation for this regional body, I believe that their thoughts, like those of the late Martin Luther King Jr. quoted, were to ensure that each and every one who had the opportunity to be chosen by this career would become equipped to sell his/her products and services as “Michelangelo painted, Beethoven played music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry”. Indeed, some 40 years later, without question, many of our founding members and those who have graced this industry with their presence have been hailed by all the “Hosts of Heaven and Earth” for a job exceptionally well done. It is more than fitting, therefore, that we converge on this very special occasion in the beautiful island of Jamaica, the land of wood and water and home to the trailblazing Jamaica Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (JAIFA), to celebrate this milestone. It is said that “life begins at 40”, and as we reflect on the past 40 years, I am reminded of the theme which I chose when I became president two years ago, ‘Bridging the Past, Enabling the Future, Pathways to Success’. Our 40th anniversary celebration provides us with a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the significant things
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
we have accomplished and those who have been in the fore front of our growth and development. They have been instrumental in delivering to us a “maturing Child” as it were, whose future we must now enable and ensure that the pathways to future accomplishments are secure. This 32nd Annual Sales Congress, hosted by President Monica Robotham JAIFA and facilitated by Congress Director Orville Johnson and his committee, is but the first step in the coming of age of CARAIFA. The theme, ‘Empowered to Rise’, is a microcosm of JAIFA’S theme for 2017-2018, ‘Find Your Passion, Brand Your Life’, and is designed to take us on a nostalgic and life-enriching experience that will be forever etched in our minds and hearts. I am delighted, therefore, to welcome you to Congress 2018 and the 40th Anniversary celebration of CARAIFA. I am especially happy to welcome all first-time attendees and those who may be with us from beyond our region. May all of us endeavor to fully enjoy the wonderful Jamaican hospitality, people and culture, and all that Congress 2018 has to offer while we are here, and do whatever it takes to rise up, and find or renew our passion and brand our Life. Wynthrop A.D. Catwell CARAIFA President
Message from the CARAIFA Secretary General President Monica Robotham and Congress Director Orville Johnson have orchestrated a schedule of events and activities that are guaranteed to leave you feeling ‘Empowered to Rise’. A highlight of this year’s congress will be the celebration of CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary. For 40 years CARAIFA has served as a beacon for insurance and financial advisors in the region, facilitating their growth and development through education, comradeship and vision. As CARAIFA enters its 41st year, we will continue to be committed to viability, continuous growth and development, improving the image of our members and upholding the industry’s high ethical standards. We are steadfast in our commitment to carry out our mission as we are It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to our second city, Montego Bay, in this great land of wood, water and sunshine, the land of my birth, Jamaica. “She have a rich history, A beautiful woman with the sweetest gifts, Beautiful sunrise and an evening kiss, Of a nice sunset in the evening seas” says reggae artiste Chronixx, and you will definitely experience this while you are here. As we come together for our annual rejuvenation and fellowship, we are reminded that although we have travelled from across the Caribbean Sea to gather on this island, we are, in fact, one nation, proud and indivisible, as together we stand and divided we fall.
‘Empowered to Rise’ to see beyond our vision to a future that holds new challenges and greater opportunities for our insurance and financial professionals in the region. It is said, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together’ (anonymous), and that is how we will make it through the next 40 years, united, together as one. I encourage you to make the most of this congress; take away critical lessons that, when integrated into your personal and professional lives, will empower you to rise to the next level of success, and when you face an obstacle, as you will, remember what Winston Churchill said: “It’s continuous effort - not strength or intelligence – that is the key to unlocking our potential.” Michael Jordon puts it this way: ‘If you’re trying to achieve, there will be road blocks ... obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.’ Colleagues and friends, the stage is set for the 32nd Annual Congress. It’s time to take your seats and fasten your seatbelts as JAIFA and CARAIFA roll out the red carpet and take you on an uplifting journey: Congress 2018 - ‘Empowered to Rise’. Marcelle Fenton, MBA, BA (Hons.), CLU Ch.F.C., FLMI, FSCP
The hard-working members of the Jamaica Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (JAIFA) under the stewardship of Empowered to Rise
11
Message from the President of JAIFA To all our cherished association
As we relish what the congress has
presidents, delegates, speakers,
to offer, let us not forget that we
participants, colleagues, families
are a model regional organization.
and friends - first—time or returning
We have been able to work
visitors - we are indeed blessed
productively together over the last
that you have come from across
40 years - not without our ups and
the Caribbean, the United States
downs - but with recognition that
of America, and as far as Dubai to
as a Caribbean people we are more
join us on our beautiful island of
alike than different, bearing in mind
Jamaica, where the sun shineth, the
the words of that great Caribbean
land is green and the people are
icon, Sir Shridath Ramphal: “We
strong and creative.
must either swim together or sink separately.”
Jamaica is more than a country; it is an extraordinary experience.
As I reflect on my theme ‘Find Your
Over the next few days you will get
Passion, Brand Your Life’, and as
a special taste of our hospitality as
we are ‘Empowered to Rise’, let us
you sharpen your skills, share ideas,
encourage each other, striving to
reignite the fire and connect with
grow personally and professionally,
visionaries, movers and leaders
and choosing to guide and cultivate
who are seeking to create a better
our personal brand. What do you
tomorrow.
wish for people to associate you with? What do you stand for? What
It is with absolute joy, humility of spirit, and a grateful heart that I, as the 65th President of Jamaica Association of Insurance and Financial (JAIFA), and on behalf of the Board of Directors, roll out the welcome mat to you to CARAIFA’s 32nd Annual Sales Congress and 40th anniversary celebrations. We are truly delighted to be the host of
Congress 2018, its theme,
separates you from everyone else?
‘Empowered to Rise’, has been
What will you be remembered
planned with you in mind. Congress
for? At the end of the day, what
Director Orville Johnson, O.D.,
matters most is what we shared,
and his exceptional, reliable and
what we taught, our significance,
passionate planning committee,
our integrity, our courage, and the
along with members of the
sacrifice we make to empower
secretariat, have worked tirelessly
others.
to present a programme of activities that is scintillating,
It is our sincere wish that everyone
educational, fun-filled, and is
of you will have a rewarding and
guaranteed to challenge you to rise
most memorable congress.
to the next level.
this historic sales congress. 12
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Monica Robotham, CLU, Ch.F.C, SLU
Message from MDRT Zone Chair should be a strong spirit of kinship
professional you can be.
and service, in appreciation of our role in this volatile and disruptive
On behalf of the Executive
time in history! That is a great place
Committee of MDRT, Meila
to start. Rise towards what? These
McKitty Plummer, region chair, and
can be defined by our own personal
MDRT members worldwide, I do
goals and altruistic desires. At the
wish CARAIFA many more years
end of each month, quarter and
of wonderful experiences and
year, we only arrive at what we set
professional development on this
out to do if we have served well.
their ruby anniversary.
A great part of our progress as
Yours in service,
a people in the journey from Dear Fellow Advisors,
colonialism has been our desire to
Gregg Mannette,
rise above challenges in pursuit of
MDRT Zone Chair, Caribbean
Our Pan-Caribbean region is
our own nationalistic and regional
blessed with an abundance of
identities. As a body of financial
resources, both natural and human.
professionals, we play an integral
Specific to the latter, some of our
part in the welfare of our regional
well-known global contributions
citizenry. May we always be
lie in the field of sport, athletics,
empowered to rise to new personal
beauty and music and the arts.
professional highs so that as the
Often unsung, though, is the
tide rises in our profession, we raise
reality that over the 40 years of
all boats in the harbour.
CARAIFA’s existence, we have also provided world-class financial
The Million Dollar Round Table
advisors. This noble profession
(MDRT) remains committed
will seldom gain the attention of
to the development of the
mainstream media the world over.
professionalism of all financial
I however, humbly submit, the part
advisors who dare to rise to a
we play in the equilibrium of life is
new level of service. I encourage
note-worthy of proper credit.
you to have a conversation with MDRT members in your company
‘Empowered to Rise’! A bold
or region, and find out more about
statement of great responsibility is
how this great organisation can
the theme of this year’s congress.
raise your standard of performance
What are we empowered by? It
and empower you to be the best
Empowered to Rise
13
Retirement Planning Don’t Wait until it’s too late Financial Services Commission (FSC)
Ideally, retirement is the time in your life to indulge in hobbies, travel,
and comfort on retirement and a
spend time with loved ones and engage in activities which had been
marginal existence during these
deferred while you were too busy working, raising/educating children and
years.
advancing careers. Achieving these retirement goals cannot happen by chance or wishful thinking. They are attainable by conscious and realistic
Individuals can save towards their
planning which must begin as early as possible. The earlier this planning
retirement through superannuation
is effected, the less burdensome and more attainable the retirement goals
funds and retirement schemes. A
will be. Adequate retirement planning ensures that the basic needs such
superannuation fund is a pension
as food, shelter and increased health-care costs are provided for, and
plan established by an employer
there is also sufficient financial capacity to allow the retiree to indulge
for the benefit of his employees.
in some of the fun-filled activities which were deferred during his/her
On the other hand, retirement
working life.
schemes facilitate self-employed persons and those persons who are
Planning for retirement is made easier by the availability of various pension
not members of a superannuation
savings options. These savings options aim to assist the saver to achieve
fund and are not employed in
retirement goals by utilizing available tax benefits. Segregating pension
pensionable posts.
savings by compulsory savings being deducted directly from one’s salary prevents the saver from diverting the funds to short-term consumption,
However, saving for retirement
and ensures that funds are used for building retirement assets.
is not limited to these pension
Pension savings should constitute a significant portion of the net worth
arrangements. If an employee
of the average employed/self-employed person. With life expectancy
believes that his/her pension
increasing, the retirement years are also increasing and a well-organised
funds will not be adequate to meet
retirement plan represents the difference between financial security
lifestyle needs on retirement, he/ Empowered to Rise
17
she should investigate and invest in other investment arrangements which are available from financial institutions. Whether you are in the early stages of working life or you are nearing the retirement phase, planning for retirement is a very important and necessary activity. There are some basic principles with regard to planning for retirement that should not be ignored. In particular, members of pension plans and all persons planning for retirement should: • Conduct research and gather information regarding the retirement products available in the market; knowledge and financial security go hand in hand. • If you contribute to a pension fund, keep abreast of the performance of the pension fund, communicate with the trustees of the plan, and ensure that the pension fund is operating in keeping with the Trust Deed and Rules and the Pensions Act. Read the reports provided by the pension fund. This will keep you aware of the performance of the fund and ensure that upon retirement there will be no surprises regarding your savings in the fund. Seek expert advice. • Act promptly - retirement planning should not be delayed; an early start is advisable. • Ensure that the financial institution in which you are placing your savings is registered and licensed with the Financial Services Commission (FSC). Visit the FSC website www.fscjamaica.org which provides lists of all companies registered and licensed by them. 18
SCAN TO GO TO WEBSITE
www.cbjamaica.com | sales@cbjamaica.com
LOCATIONS
Top Insurance Agents Q What moment in time changed your perspective and made you the success you are?
a
The moment in time that would have changed my perspective was the birth of my son, Carlos, 28 years ago. I was determined to provide a better life for him. This gave me the drive to do well in the insurance industry. He was two years old when I came into the business.
- Wayne Alleyne Q What drives your success?
a
I have always had a hunger for excellence and the need to be the best at my practice. These, coupled with the provisions I am required to make for my retirement savings and my passion for ensuring that my three sons have a much better start in life than I did, have been enough to keep me going. In addition to all of the above, I am wired to win. I don’t know how to do anything else, and for those who know me, they will understand that it is the only outcome I can relate to.
Q Describe a typical day in your work life, outlining the specific actions you believe contribute to
a
your success. My responsibilities encompass that of an agent and agency manager. I manage an agency with sixty eight (68) agents, and this requires some skillful time-management on my part to be able to achieve my personal sales targets while ensuring that my management functions are executed. I am a firm believer in delegation and, as such, I literally delegate everything that does not require my personal involvement. This allows me to focus on the things that really matter. I try to fit in, on average, two interviews per day and, wherever possible, I try to arrange for these meetings to take place at my office so as to make the best use of my time. I believe, though, that the other primary factor that contributes to my success is my mastery of networking, combined with exceptional customer service. I am an avid fitness enthusiast and this requires me to leave my office between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. To many, this may seem extreme, but it is what I do, as I believe that maintaining peak health and fitness contributes, in a significant way, to sustaining the highest performance.
- Dale Mcleod Q What drives your success?
a
• Innate overachiever spirit. • My faith is my compass in daily life. • I am very focused on my goals to the point where this single-mindedness has led to me being labelled as antisocial. However, in reality all my energies and efforts are concentrated on my goals which span beyond Sagicor. This allows for an extraordinary type of result in my life.
- Loeri Robinson 20
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Q What moment in time changed your perspective and made the success you are?
a
Becoming a mother made it even more serious. My children became my biggest inspiration. They changed my outlook on life on a whole.
Q Describe a typical day in your work life, outlining the specific actions you believe Q & A Top Insurance Agents
a
contribute to your success. My day is structured with daily ‘must dos’ which include: Praying and spending time in devotion - this is the first order of business Getting a minimum of three new names each day. Conducting at least one new interview plus an existing client review. Making sure I take a few minutes in-between for persistent checks and balances. By doing these ‘must dos’ repeatedly, they are now great work habits that keep me focused and in order.
- Janice Mullin-Sargeant
Q What drives your success?
a
some habits which Albert Gray,
I would answer that question by referring to Albert E.N.
mentioned earlier, refers to as
Gray’s powerful quote: “Successful people do the things that
the four success habits in the life
failures don’t like to do.” it goes on to say that the same people
insurance business:
do not like doing them either necessarily, but their disliking
1. prospecting habits (cultivating
is subordinated to the strength of their purpose. This very
new persons every day)
statement is critical to my success because there are many
2. calling habits - which means
days when things go wrong, as they sometimes will, and I do
calling on people who don’t
not feel like doing the things that are critical to my success,
want to see you
but by constantly focusing on my purpose, my goals are almost always accomplished.
3. selling habits - trying to sell them something they don’t want to buy
Another important factor to my success is that of tithing,
4. working habits - putting
which is that tenth of my income that I give to God, which
yourself on the line trying to
enables him to move on my behalf in the area of blessings.
convince persons on a daily
He owns everything and I am simply a steward of what I have
basis of the importance of the
been entrusted with. The principle is this: “He gives unto us,
various products that cover
we give back to Him one-tenth of all He has blessed us with.”
family protection, critical illness, savings, etc., even when
Q Describe a typical day in your work life, outlining the specific
a
actions you believe contribute to your success? I would describe a typical day by describing a typical month
you don’t feel like it.
- Marcia Wright
or a typical year, which entails showing up for work every day, Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.M. In addition, I have formed
Empowered to Rise
21
Vision Accomplished
It’s not just about the numbers. It’s about hearing what the numbers are saying PENSIONS THE PRINCIPALS COMBINED 70 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Valuations & Reporting (Funding, IFRS and GAAP accounting) Plan Documentation – Trust Deed & Rules Plan Design and Costing Mergers, Conversions and Wind-Up/Termination Specialized Projects
• • • • •
COMMUNICATIONS
Education Seminars Trustee and Administrator Training Members’ Handbooks and Benefit Statements
• • •
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CONSULTING
Plan design – insured and self-insured Competitive benchmarking Contract negotiations- initial placement and renewal Cost sharing arrangements IFRS and GAAP accounting valuations & reporting
• • • • • Phillip Whittaker, FIA, ASA pwhittaker@eckler.ca
LIFE, PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE Individual Life Property & Casualty – Evaluation of Tenders Valuation, Solvency and Source of Earnings Stochastic and Dynamic Projections Financial and other reporting Mergers and acquisitions Product Design, Development and Pricing Independent review Annuity Pricing
• • • • • • • • •
OTHER
Public Sector Benefits Social Security – Insurance and Pensions Executive Benefits Surveys (Employee Benefits, etc.)
• • • • Constance Dalmadge Hall FSA, FCA, MAAA chall@eckler.ca
WWW.ECKLER.CA
OTHER LOCATIONS:
• •
8 Ruthven Road, Kingston 10 Tel: (876) 908-1203; 754-7695 Fax: (876) 754-87-83
• •
BARBADOS TORONTO
VANCOUVER
QUEBEC CITY
• • •
WINNIPEG
MONTREAL
HALIFAX
THANK YOU JAIFA would like to extend our most heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the success of the CARAIFA’s 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018. Thank you to the hard working committee members, subcommittees, Secretariat, sponsors and contributors.
Positive Printing
|
Webster Campbell
PROMOTING INTEGRITY IN THE JAMAICAN FINANCIAL SECTOR
OUR
VISION
To be an impartial, credible and relevant regulator, effectively engaging stakeholders to support a robust financial services sector.
WE
VALUE
ACCOUNTABILITY INTEGRITY CONFIDENTIALITY COMMUNICATION TEAM WORK EXCELLENCE FAIRNESS
OUR
MISSION To regulate and supervise the securities, insurance and pensions industries for the protection of their users thereby enhancing public confidence through the efforts of a competent workforce.
OUR
ROLE The Financial Services Commission (FSC) - supervisor of the Securities, Insurance and private Pensions industries in Jamaica. 39 - 43 Barbados Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 906-3010 -2 | Fax: (876) 906-3018
Email: inquiry@fscjamaica.org Website: www.fscjamaica.org
Main Platform Speakers Alicia P. Hussey
Bonnie Godsman
Attorney-at-Law
Chief Executive Officer GAMA International
Management Advisory Board of the Companies Office of Jamaica. She is currently a member of the Best Practices Committee of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, where she is also a member of the Corporate Alicia P. Hussey is an Attorney-at-
Governance sub-committee and
Law and Principal at the law firm,
chairs the Corporate Disclosure and
Hussey Legal.
Investor Relations sub-committee. Ms Hussey enjoys teaching and
Bonnie Godsman is Chief Executive
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree,
currently serves as tutor of Probate
Officer at GAMA International in
a Bachelor of Laws degree awarded
Practice and Procedure at the
Falls Church, Virginia. Godsman
by the University of the West Indies
Norman Manley Law School.
joined GAMA International 16 years ago, where she rose
and a Legal Education Certificate awarded by the Norman Manley Law
She enjoys mentoring youth, and
through the ranks to become
School.
on a weekly basis, engages with and
Vice-President for corporate and
plays an active role in the positive
business development. In this
Ms Hussey has been a practising
and rounded development of young
role, she oversaw all revenue
Attorney since 2002 and has
people. She founded and currently is
departments at the association,
gathered a wealth of experience
a director of the First Baptist Church
including Membership, LAMP,
in the fields of corporate and
Mentorship Programme. She also
Communications and PMG
commercial law, corporate
leads her church’s Youth Group,
Corporate Relations. Since her
governance, corporate compliance,
teaches Sunday school for 16-22
promotion to that position in
real estate development,
year-olds and mentors young men in
2012, GAMA has seen dramatic
conveyancing, estate planning and
her church community through her
growth in revenue, membership,
administration, probate and family
training and management of the First
membership retention and
law.
Baptist Church Football Club.
LAMP attendance. In June 2014, Godsman took the helm as GAMA’s
She has served as a member of the
She is a Christian, enjoys spiritual
first and youngest female CEO.
Corporate Governance Committee
activities and spends her spare
Before joining GAMA, Godsman
of the Private Sector Organisation
time reading, watching football and
held political appointments under
of Jamaica and Secretary of the
running.
the administrations of Suffolk
24
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Main Platform Speakers cont’d Robert J. Gaffney as liaison
Dr. Sanjay Tolani
Damion Crawford
Sanja Tolani is a 15-year member
Damion Crawford is an educator,
of the Million Dollar Round Table –
an entrepreneur, an advocate
the premier association of financial
and an overall leader. He has
professionals, with two Court of
lecturered in tourism management
the Table and eleven Top of the
at the University of the West
Table honours. He became the
Indies, Mona, and is currently
youngest member in 2003, at the
the managing director of Crafton
age of 19, and then qualified as the
Holdings Limited, a company which
Youngest Life Member in 2012 at
manufactures liquid eggs supplied
the age of 28. He has also become
from his large poultry farm. This
the youngest managing director
liquid egg facility is the only one
of an insurance brokerage in the
of its kind in the Caribbean. Now
Middle East.
in the final year of reading for his
NamePlatform Main of section Speakers here
County (N.Y.) Executive to the offices of both New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and President George W. Bush. She is also founder of Bliss, LLC, a restaurant group based in New York City. In addition, Godsman is a member of the American Society of Association Executive and the National Association of Professional Women and will sit for the prestigious Certified Association Executive (CAE) this coming May. Born and raised on the south shore of Long Island, Godsman is a proud New York native. Having been bitten by the political bug at a young age, she attended the American University in Washington, D.C., receiving a B.A. in political science. Godsman divides her professional and personal living in both Washington, D.C., weekly, and enjoying her weekends in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, with her husband
doctoral degree, Damion has also served as government senator and opposition spokesperson on youth and culture.
Mike and their yorkie poo, Lincoln.
Empowered to Rise
25
Main Platform Speakers cont’d Belinda Frederica Morrison Urologist/Senior Lecturer
Marcus T. Henderson, Sr., RFP®
Marcus T. Henderson, Sr., RFP®, MRFC of Franklin, Tennessee, is President and CEO of Henderson Financial Group, Inc. He is a 26-year consecutive member of the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), a benchmark of excellence in the financial services arena. Currently, Marcus is a six-year qualifying member of MDRT’s Top of the Table (TOT). Belinda Frederica Morrison is a senior lecturer and head of the Division of Urology at the University
He is a past president of the Nashville Association
of the West Indies, Mona, in Kingston. She is also a
of Insurance and Financial Advisors - 1999/2000,
surgery consultant. She holds an MB.BS. (Hons) and a
and also a past president of the National Association
DM (Urology) from the University of the West Indies,
of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) –
with academic specialization in urology and a general
Tennessee - 2004/2005. He was the recipient of the
interest in prostate cancer and andrology - the study
NAIFA Nashville Todd A. Baker Extraordinary Award
of male sexual dysfunction. She has also written
- 2014, and was also named the NAIFA TN Insurance
extensively on the topic.
Professional of the Year – 2013.
The valedictorian of her 2000 graduating class has
Marcus is an avid supporter of MDRT’s committee
been the recipient of many awards and scholarships,
system and the MDRT Foundation, of which he is
including the Prime Minister’s Award for Academic
a Gold Knight. Quite accomplished within media
Excellence in 2001, and the Commonwealth
and print, Marcus has been featured in Advisor
Scholarship in 2005. An active volunteer at the Jamaica
Today in 2005, NAIFA’s national publication, and is a
Cancer Society’s monthly prostate cancer screening
frequent columnist in many national financial planning
clinics, Belinda also serves on the board of the Jamaica
magazines and periodicals. He was most recently
Cancer Society, and has served as president of the
highlighted in February 2015 by Signator in Financial
Jamaica Urological Society and medical advisor on the
Planning magazine for his exemplary independent firm
National Health Fund Pharmaceutical Committee.
building achievements.
26
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Main Platform Speakers cont’d
Carla Dunbar was born in Kingston
resident marriage officer and family
but relocated to the parish of
and sex therapist.
Portland when she was eleven years old. She has been happily
She has authored two books,
married to Canute Dunbar for
CHANGED … The Journey and
39 years, and their union has
SEXCRIPTION: A Prescription for
produced four children and eight
Sex, and her passion for marriage
grandchildren. The current senior
and the family continues to
pastor for the Church of God of
propel her to fulfil her mantra of
Prophecy in Cavaliers, St. Andrew,
‘Rebuilding Jamaica, One Marriage
she has also served as senior pastor of both the Buff Bay and Orange Bay
at a Time’. She loves the Lord
churches.
passionately and humbly enjoys helping persons resolve life’s issues.
The name Carla Dunbar has gained considerable popularity as Jamaica’s
Her philosophy is that “Anyone
leading marriage, family and sex therapist. She is a certified professional
can create an impression, but not
life coach, and sex and family counselling therapist, and her counselling
anyone can create an impact” and
service is extended to the diaspora in Japan, UK, USA and Caribbean
she seeks always to impact by
countries via Skype and social media. She is also a motivational speaker
empowering.
who has addressed audiences in the private and public sectors of Jamaica. Her reputation has gained for her international recognition and she has, upon invitation, addressed conferences in the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA) and in other Caribbean countries. Reverend Dr. Dunbar was conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy in Humane Letters and awarded Fellow of the Most Excellent Order of International Expert in the field of Marriage and Family Counselling at the 2017 graduation of CICA International University and Seminary in New York, and was commissioned with Ambassadorial Status in the United States. She is an archive media consultant for Jamaica Media Houses and CEO of Carla Dunbar Ministries and Counselling Care, with its main office at Eden Gardens Wellness Resort and Spa in St. Andrew. There she serves as Empowered to Rise
27
Main Platform Speakers
Rev. Dr. Carla Dunbar B.Th. L.H.D, FOIE. JP
Main Platform Speakers cont’d Fritz Hire Augustus Pinnock, Ph.D., JP, FCILT, FCMI, CD
He was the Jamaica Association
Bahamas, Barbados, St. Kitts, Guyana
for Administrative Professionals
and many regional ports. He has
(JAAP) All-Island Boss of the
served as a Board Member for both
year for 2013-2014 and is an
public and private sectors: these
Honorary Advisor of Shanghai
include the HEART Trust/NTA and
Cruise Ship & Yacht Association.
the National Apprenticeship Board.
Professor Pinnock is an advocate
Professor Fritz Pinnock is the President of the Caribbean Maritime University and holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Sustainable Cruise Tourism from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica. He also has an MSc. in International Shipping and Logistics from the University of Plymouth, United Kingdom, and a BSc. (Hons.) in Economics and Accounting (Management Studies) from the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics Transport, UK (FCILT), and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute, UK (FCMI), and has been a Fellow of the British Institute of Management (MBIM) since 1991, and the Institute of Logistics and Distribution Management (MILDM).
for educational transformation
Besides being a consultant, he
through TVET and he chairs the
is a special advisor, regionally
National Logistics Hub Education
and internationally to various
and Training Sub Committee. He is
agencies (governmental and non-
the recipient of the Prime Minister’s
governmental) and sits on several
Medal of Appreciation 2015
institutional, community and
service to education. In 2017, he
sports-related boards including
was conferred the honour of the
the President of the Jamaica
Order of Distinction in the Rank
Rowing Federation and Chairman
of Commander (CD) in recognition
of the Associates Committee, Port
to his contribution in the field
Management Association of the
of Education, in particular, the
Caribbean (PMAC).
Caribbean Maritime University. He is also an Honorary Professor for the
He is the author of several books
Academic Union, Oxford.
which include: •
He is an International Maritime
& Management”, published in
and Logistics Consultant who has
Canada, and currently being
worked on numerous projects, in
used at the Caribbean Maritime
collaboration with the Government
Institute.
of Canada, the International
•
“Caribbean Cruise Tourism: Power
Development Bank (IDB), CARICOM,
Relations Among Stakeholders”
World Bank, French Government,
(Paperback), 2012, LAP Lambert
British Virgin Islands, Organization of
Academic Publishing, Germany.
American States, Eastern Caribbean States, Suriname, United Kingdom,
28
“Marine Terminal Operations
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Main Platform Speakers cont’d academic peer review and
Sandra Ramjit
Main Platform Speakers
He has published numerous
Sales Representative
industry articles, magazines and journals worldwide in multiple languages, including French, German, and Spanish and is a contributing writer and columnist (the Human Factor) of the Caribbean Maritime and Port Side Magazines; the leading shipping magazines published by the Caribbean Shipping Association. In addition, he has developed numerous course manuals. Among his lifetime accolades, he is the recipient of the Socrates 2016 Award. This award means he is considered ONE of the WORLD’S 20 BEST PROFESSIONALS FROM ALL CONTINENTS for his “outstanding achievements in professional activities and contribution to intellectual development in government management, business and the economy of today’s society.” Professor Pinnock is a Justice of the Peace for Kingston, a counselor and advisor to various charities. He also enjoys reading, fishing, and power boating. He is married and has two beautiful daughters.
Sandra Ramjit took a leap of faith
she attended her first congress in
and joined the financial services
Barbados and on her first attempt
business in 2016, after 30 years
at Speakers’ Forum, she walked
in the accounting and auditing
away with first place.
field. She has spent 12 years as Caribbean Finance Manager of
She is a budding Toastmaster and
GlaxoSmithKline Caribbean Limited,
also continues to give back to the
an international pharmaceutical
community by being a volunteer
company, and, prior to that, she
tutor with Adult Literacy Tutors
worked for 6 years as assistant
Association. She feels confident
audit manager at Ernst & Young.
that her professional and personal experience will give her the edge
She is a qualified accountant with
in the insurance industry. Her
the FCCA designation and the
road to FSCP designation has
holder of an MBA with speciality in
already started, which will enhance
strategic planning.
her ability to better serve her clients. Sandra is very resilient and
In her first year in the business she
passionate, and has set her eyes
doubled the company’s quota and
on qualifying for the prestigious
is well on her way to achieving the
Million Dollar Round Table.
company’s highest awards. In 2017, Empowered to Rise
29
C O N G R E S S
P R O G R A M M E
Sunday, April 29, 2018
11:10 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Entertainment
4:00 p.m.
11:20 a.m. - 11:50 a.m.
Dr. Belinda Morrison Effects of Cancer; Sexual Dysfunction
Orientation for First Time Participants
Chairperson - Mr. Winston Bennett, BSc.CLU, Ch.F.C 6: 00 p.m.
CARAIFA President’s Cocktail
6:45 p.m.
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary Celebration & Hall of Fame Ceremony
Welcome Address Ms. Monica Robotham, CLU, Ch.F.C, SLU JAIFA’s President Greetings Mr. Wynthrop Catwell CARAIFA’s President Dr. The Honourable Nigel Clarke, DPhil., MP Guest Speaker - Minister of Finance & Public Service
Monday, April 30, 2018 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Mr. Oliver Tomlinson, JP Chairperson Opening & Flag Ceremony Invocation Congress Director Address Mr. Orville Johnson, OD, BSc., FLMI 9:30 a.m. - 9:50 a.m. Bishop The Honourable Conrad Pitkin, JP Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of St.James MAIN PLATFORM 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Dr. Sanjay Tolani,
BBA (Fin.), MIB (Dist.), FLMI (Dist.), ACS
(Hons.), MAFB (Dist.), AFSI, CFP
Sales Selling Skills
10:35 a.m. - 11:05 a.m. Dr. Damien King Economic Overview, Opportunities across the Caribbean
30
11:55 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Mr. Damian Crawford Empowered to Rise LUNCH 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. WORKSHOPS 1. Mrs. Alicia Hussey My Will, My Estate 2. Mr. Marcus Henderson Guard your Financial Health 3. Mr. Alan Lurty, MBA,RICP® FLMI Value of Professional Designation & Education from the American College What’s next after FSCP? 3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. WORKSHOPS 1. Mrs. Alicia Hussey My Will, My Estate 2. Mr. Marcus Henderson Guard your Financial Health 3. Mr. Joseph Sidaros, BA,CIAM,CMFA Building the Agents 8:00 p.m. Karaoke, Games Night
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Speakers’ Forum Competition 8:30 a.m. - 8:40 a.m. Mr. Wayne Alleyne, LUTCF Agency Manager Chairperson Mr. Leslie Francis, JP Branch Manager Caribbean Praise
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
C O N G R E S S Ms. Sara Estrella Membership & External Relations Strategist MDRT Greetings MAIN PLATFORM CONTINUES 8:50a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Mr. Marcus Henderson – Empowered for Success The Agent as a Business/Sales Ideas 9:20 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Mr. Oliver Townsend Creation of a Dream
9:50 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Ms. Bonnie Godsman Knowledge Equals Power, Wealth and Happiness
10:15 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. Mr. Everard Smith Entertainment 10:20a.m. – 10:35 a.m. Ms. Sandra Ramjit 2017 Speakers’ Forum Winner 10:40a.m. – 11:05 a.m.
Dr. Maolynne Miller CARAIFA Foundation Kidney Disease
11:10 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. Ms. Loeri Robinson – Rise - Higher Heights 11:40 – 12:05 p.m.
Mrs. Alicia Hussey The Value of Estate Planning
P R O G R A M M E 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. WORKSHOPS 1. Dr. Sanjay Tolani Double Your Income 2. Ms. Nicholene Taylor Mind of the Agent 3. Mr. Joseph Sidaros, MBA,CIAM,CMFA Empowered to Lead (Managers) 8:00 p.m.
Club Party – All White
Wednesday, May 2, 2018 Mr. Winston Bennett BSc., CLU, CH.F.C Chairperson 8: 45 a.m. - 9: 25
View from top
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Rapping with Dr. The Honourable R. Danvers Williams, OJ,CD., Hon.L.L.D., JP, CLU 10:35 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Announcement of 2018 Speakers’ Forum Winner 11:05 a.m - 11:35 a.m. Mr. Everard Smith Entertainment 11:40 a.m. - 12: 05 p.m. Changing of the Guards
12:10 p.m. – 12:35 p.m. Rev. Dr. Carla Dunbar Balancing the Wheel
12: 10 p.m. - 12: 40 p.m. Professor Fritz H.A. Pinnock Caribbean Maritime University
LUNCH
LUNCH
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. WORKSHOPS 1. Dr. Sanjay Tolani Double Your Income 2. Ms. Cheryl Rolle Down but not Out – Rise
12:50 p.m.
Tours
8:00 p,m.
Dinner & Caribbean Night with FAB 5 on the Beach
3. Ms. Bonnie Godsman Empowered by Knowledge
11:00 a.m.
Thursday, May 3, 2018 Checking out / Departures
Empowered to Rise
31
Main Platform Speakers cont’d R. Danvers Williams, OJ, CD, JP, Hon. LL.D.(UTECH), Hon. LL.D.(UWI), CLU
as the nucleus for Life of Jamaica Limited, which he founded in 1970. He built the company that is today a respected and dynamic financial institution.
R. Danvers (Danny) Williams has had a distinguished career in the life insurance industry spanning some 65 years. He is the Founder and Past President and Chief Executive Officer of Life of Jamaica Limited (now Sagicor Life Jamaica Limited), one of the largest life insurance companies in the West Indies. His involvement with the industry dates back to 1953, when at the age of 18 years 9 months he joined North American Life Assurance Company, NALACO, as a salesman. Within 7 years, he was appointed Branch Manager for Jamaica and over the next decade, he guided the branch to the number one position in the company’s international network. A dedicated professional committed to the development of his country and with a zest for challenges, Danny Williams molded the branch 32
R. Danvers Williams is noted for his considerable service to the wider Jamaican community which has earned him the national honours of Commander of the Order of Distinction (1972) and the Order of Jamaica (1993). He served the Government of Jamaica for three years from 1977 to 1979 as a Senator, Minister of State and Minister of Industry and Commerce respectively. He was conferred twice with the degree of Doctor of Laws (Hon) by the University of Technology in 2005 and by the University of the West Indies (Mona) in 2013. He has received many other honours and awards including the Observer Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) Hall of Fame, the Caribbean Luminary Award by the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI), the Gleaner Honour Award for Voluntary Service, induction into the Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARIFA) Hall of Fame, the YEA Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by the
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Young Entrepreneurs Association and One of the 50 Living Legacy Award by the Caribbean Community for Retired Persons (CCRP). He was President of the Jamaica Association for the Deaf for 10 years. He was also Chairman of the Jamaica Association for the Advancement of Literacy, JAMAL and the National Development Foundation of Jamaica as well as Vice President of the Jaycees of Jamaica and the West Indies Jaycees. He was Chairman of the Jamaica College Board from 2005 to 2011 and Chairman of the Jamaica College Foundation from 2005 to 2016. In December 2008 Mr. Williams was appointed Director Emeritus of the Jamaica Broilers Group Limited. He currently serves on the boards of several major Jamaican Companies, Organizations and Foundations, including Sagicor Life Jamaica Limited and UWI Private Wing Ltd. He is the Chairman of Ravers Limited and Virginia Dare (Jamaica) Limited. He resigned as Chairman of Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited effective June 1, 2017 and was conferred the title of Director Emeritus.
Workshop Speakers Joseph Sidaros,
Principal Representative- Sagicor Life, Dominica
Workshop Speakers
Cheryl Lander-Rolle
MBA,CIAM,CMFA Senior Strategic Consultant Executive Coach
the top producer for Sagicor Life Inc., formerly known as Life of Barbados, for five consecutive years. Cheryl has also been the President of Dominica Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (DAIFA) and has successfully hosted three CARAIFA Conferences
Joseph Sidaros is a professional
in Dominica, the last one being held Cheryl Lander-Rolle is of Creole
management consultant and
in 2013, with over 150 participants
descent and was born and raised
executive coach with extensive
from the Caribbean. Cheryl is the
in the island of the Commonwealth
years of experience in the financial
Principal Representative of Sagicor
of Dominica, also known as the
security industry. He has been
Life Inc. in Dominica and the only
Nature Island of the Caribbean. She
in the field of management and
female one in the Caribbean. She
considers herself to be an unofficial
business development for over 35
has been a deputy chairman of
ambassador of her country and
years, and the last 30 plus years
Invest Dominica and has served
also is the mother of five wonderful
have been focused in management
on the executive for three years.
children.
development, coaching and training,
At present, she is a director
including recruiting and selection,
on Dominica’s National Health
budgeting, staffing, forecasting,
Commission.
business planning, marketing,
She has been a financial advisor for Sagicor Life Inc. for 30 years
promotions, human relations, and
and has won several awards in
She considers the islands one
Dominica and the OECS as a top
sales and distribution within the
people dropped in different shores
female financial advisor. In doing
financial security and planning
from ships, and believes that the
so, she has become a multiple
industry. Joseph has received the
value of an insurance advisor is
qualifier for the Million Dollar
prestigious Chairman’s Trophy in
unmeasurable in times of greatest
Round Table, recipient of numerous
recognition of his outstanding project
sorrow and financial challenges.
management and performance
Caribbean awards as top producer in the entire Eastern Caribbean, and holds the record of being
excellence. He has also received the highest level of recognition for commitment to excellence in
Empowered to Rise
33
Workshop Speakers cont’d the professionalism of Effective Field Management in the Financial Security Industry.
Alan S. Lurty, MBA, RICP®, FLMI Vice-President, Education & Business Development The American College of Financial Services
In his endless pursuit of helping people
Alan Lurty is a senior leader
achieve excellence through balanced
in the insurance and financial
personal and professional lives, Joseph
services sector with a passion
established his own management
for building companies into
consulting and development company
profitable industry leaders.
called Performance Management Plus.
In his role at The American
There, his main responsibilities are
College, Alan is responsible for all
to deliver and facilitate management
international operations, and also
and executive coaching, training and
has responsibility for marketing
development mandates to associates and
the college’s programmes
leaders within a wide variety of industries
through banks, broker-dealers
around the world. His mission is to pave
and independent distribution.
the way to a better future by empowering people within a highly competitive and demanding marketplace, to develop the full potential of people while creating harmony within a highly productive workplace and to achieve increased productivity and effectiveness through activity management and behavioral modification. Over the years, and on his own initiatives, Joseph has associated himself with the best research, training and management firms to help deliver the ultimate in executive leadership coaching and management skill development. His passion for helping people to impact their performance, productivity and operational effectiveness through behavioral change has contributed to the success and growth of numerous organizations.
34
Before joining the college, Alan was senior vice-president and chief marketing officer for SCOR Global Life Americas, the largest life reinsurer in the United States. Prior to SCOR, Alan headed business and product development for ING/Voya Financial, and was chief operating officer for Annuities at CNA Life. His significant experience includes developing and launching the industry’s first modern guaranteed level term plans, the first product with wellness features, and other new programmes in the individual life, annuity and employee benefits markets, as well as having P&L responsibility for Voya’s Affinity Markets. Alan has also built a distribution channel at ING to $45 million of sales from a standing start within three years. Alan holds an MBA in Finance and Strategic Planning from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Kent State University. He is an active community volunteer, including serving on the executive committee and chair of the Finance Committee for Big Brothers Big Sisters in the Philadelphia region, and enjoys spending time with his family, music, skiing, golf and travel.
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
7 Habits of Highly Effective Insurance Agents Why are some insurance agents successful while others flounder?
1 Hungry
2 Available
First and foremost, highly effective
We no longer live in a world where we, as
insurance agents are hungry. When
insurance agents, can dictate the terms
times get tough, the unsuccessful want
of communication with our prospects and
Their habits.
to circle the wagons and hunker down
clients.
It’s the little
into the safe and cozy “Way it’s always
idiosyncratic routines,
been”.
Highly effective insurance agents make themselves available, not when it is most
methodology and philosophies which
Unfortunately, life isn’t designed to
convenient for themselves but, rather, for
dictate their daily
be cozy or safe. Times change, people
those they would meet with.
activities that create
change, the marketplace changes,
highly effective
methodology changes.
Being available takes many different shapes. It could mean hiring a call centre
insurance agents. Life rewards those who take risks and
for after hours or allowing for text
Best-selling author and
venture forth in hustle mode. Highly
message communication. Being available
motivational speaker
effective insurance agents have a sense
could mean chatting with prospects
Jim Rohn is famously
of urgency about them. They know
and clients via Facebook Messenger
quoted as saying:
how to embrace hustle mode when it is
or Snapchat or Twitter. Maybe being
necessary.
available is as simple as getting rid of your
“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” 36
phone tree and having a human being Highly effective insurance agents are
pick up every phone call.
hungry. What being available looks like is going to Being a ‘Hungry’ insurance agent means
be different for every agency, but the fact
never looking back at work not done
remains, highly effective insurance agents
with regret for unachieved goals.
are available. The simple act of returning
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
a phone call can set you apart.
It’s easy to make excuses and find reasons why you do not have time to be available for prospects and clients. Highly effective insurance agents find time to be available.
4 Willing to Fail Albert Einstein once said, “Failure is success in progress.” Fear is paralyzing. When our mistakes stare us in the face, we often find it so upsetting we miss
embrace digital communication.
out on the primary benefit of failing: the chance to come back bigger, stronger, faster and smarter. Many
3 Value Driven Highly effective insurance agents seek to genuinely help and care about their clients and community. Rather than pushing the hard sell, they sit with clients and understand their needs. Because of the relentless pressure to drive revenue and close business, insurance agents are very familiar with the temptation to relent on price in exchange for bound policies. Highly effective insurance agents do reach for the dangling deal carrot. They understand that their success (and that of their agency) relies on a quality
of us avoid the prospect of failure. In fact, we are so focused on not failing, that we don’t aim for success, settling instead for a life of mediocrity. Highly effective insurance agents believe failure is another step on the road to success. Instead of shying away from failure, they embrace their misses, learn, adapt and try again. Highly effective insurance agents are committed to achieving their goals, regardless of how many times they fail along the way. Highly effective insurance agents are not afraid of bold moves. Highly effective insurance agents know the world is not all sunshine and rainbows.There are going to be
brand reputation in the marketplace.
days when things are not working out.
This means, on occasion, deals will be lost to price-
This is when the best insurance agents shine.
focused, coverage-poor competition. However, highly effective insurance agents know the clients willing to pay for the coverage they need, will return that value tenfold over time.
5 Measured Highly effective insurance agents have a sales pipeline fuelled by activity, not hope.
You can’t fake a desire to add value to other people’s lives. It’s almost as if prospects and clients can smell
These agents define their activities within the larger
authenticity. When you have it, when you believe deep
lead generation process. They know the metrics
down in delivering value before ever asking for it in
required to achieve their sales goals.
return, an entire new world of opportunity opens up. Not enough of the right kind of business in the top of the sales funnel guarantees there will not be enough of the right kind of business coming out the bottom.The average insurance agent cannot handle the truth.
Empowered to Rise
37
7 Habits of Highly Effective Insurance Agents
Highly effective insurance agents have begun to
They are uncomfortable with sales pipeline reviews and evaluation sessions because results are sporadic and unpredictable. Highly effective insurance agents understand that the secret to success is in the numbers – good or bad – because those numbers always have something to teach us. Highly effective insurance agents measure everything, not just the value of the closed business at the end of the month. Quantifying and evaluating every sales activity with every customer will help uncover the truth and point the way to more success in a way that simply counting the money can never do
6 Focused
a big customer – it can be downright depressing. However, even in the worst of times, success is often right around the corner.Rather than give up, highly effective insurance agents concentrate on all the reasons they can succeed. And they find a way to win. Luck has a funny way of shining on those who persist through the hard times. Business coach and international speaker Brian Tracy has this to say about luck:
The most successful independent insurance agents on this planet are highly focused.
“I’ve found that luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances. Be more active. Show
They pay attention to the present moment and present
up more often.” Show up more. Be more persistent
tasks. They do not allow distractions to become
in pursuit of your goals. Sitting in the office making
excuses for low productivity.
phone calls and excuses is the easy way to get through another day as an insurance agent. Highly effective
This habit ensures they are fully engaged in activities,
insurance agents go beyond what is expected, forming
get more done and deal with challenges efficiently.
new success-producing habits in order to reach their
Highly focused people are simply mindful. Focus takes
goals.
work. Highly effective insurance agents don’t make excuses for the distractions they will inevitably be
These are just 7 habits of highly effective insurance
faced with every single day.
agents. There are many. There is no perfect combination of habits that will work for all agents. You
Highly effective insurance agents are focused on
must go out into the world and find the habits that
the task at hand. They do not allow distractions
lead to your success. The 7 habits listed above are a
to undermine productivity. They delegate work to
great place to start. My hope is that hearing the words
support staff in order to stay focused on relationship
of fellow agents, highly effective and successful agents,
and revenue-generating activities.
will motivate you to seek out your habits.
7 Persistence
Now go find the habits that make you a highly effective insurance agent. Thank you,
Building a successful insurance career is not always easy. Sometimes – like when you lose a big sale or
38
Ryan Hanley - www. agencynation.com
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
CARAIFA ‘The paramount provider of professional education for Life Insurance and Financial Advisors in the Caribbean.’
WHAT IS CARAIFA? The Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARAIFA) is an umbrella organization of regional Life Underwriting associations whose members are engaged primarily in the sale of the products of Life Insurance and Financial Services companies. The name of the association was changed in July 2000 from the Caribbean Association of Life Underwriters (CALU) to CARAIFA.
42
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Member Territories include Antigua
CARAIFA is in the process of
an increasing number of deaths from
& Barbuda, Barbados, Belize,
bringing on stream new courses and
kidney complications in our region.
Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada,
programmes to further develop its
Many territories do not have the
Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & The
members.
capacity to treat kidney failure and
Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago and
many of our friends, relatives and CARAIFA has also established three
clients have to watch helplessly as
Curacao, Guyana, St. Kitts & Nevis,
industry production awards. These
their relatives slowly and painfully die
St. Maarten and Turks & Caicos.
are the CARAIFA Activity Award –
from kidney complications. Among
in which the emphasis is on activity
the most common persons who fall
CARAIFA’s Mission/Purpose is
that is cases settled, the CARAIFA
victim to kidney failures, according to
to stimulate the educational and
Quality Award – in which the
medical sources, are those suffering
professional development of the
emphasis is on good quality business,
from diabetes, hypertension and/or
Life Underwriter /Financial Advisor
and the CARAIFA President Award
heart ailments.
and foster a spirit of co-operation,
- in which emphasis is placed on
togetherness and unity among
premium income. You can visit our
As the first step in CARAIFA’s
the territories of the region while
website at www.caraifa.com to
long-term plan in aiding in the
ensuring the upholding of high
download the application form.
fight against kidney disease in the
ethical industry standards.
CARAIFA is also in the process of
Caribbean, CARAIFA launched
recognizing top sales agents from its
its kidney awareness website on
member associations on its website.
October 31, 2003, in Barbados.
Educational and Professional Development: CARAIFA is
Today, information on the
continually exploring new avenues
CARAIFA’s Social Arm – CARAIFA
foundation and kidney disease can
and programmes to improve the
Foundation
be viewed at http://www.caraifa.
educational standing and level of the
Every year CARAIFA focuses
com/caraifa-foundation.html. The
life underwriter/financial advisors
on a health condition where we
website disseminates information
throughout the region. To this end,
highlight the importance of health
re prevention and early detection
we offer educational courses as well
awareness and prevention; in
of kidney disease. The site also
as Caribbean Insurance Industry
the past we focused on diabetes
provides valuable information about
Awards. Throughout the years
and hypertension. On October
treatment. It is our ultimate intention
CARAIFA has been adjusting and
31 of each year, our membership
to have a facility on this site where
upgrading its education programme.
throughout the region joins its
kidney donors and patients may be
At this time, the following
efforts with other health groups to
located.
programmes are being offered by
highlight a health condition, seeking
CARAIFA:
to educate the public at large. We
• The Financial Services
call this day ‘The Day of Common
Certified Professional (FSCP), a
Concern’ and in 2003 CARAIFA
designation programme.
started to devote resources to
• The Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), a designation programme. • The Chartered Financial Consultant (Ch.F.C.), a designation programme.
creating a CARAIFA Foundation. The focus of the foundation is on kidney complications, as we believe that more needs to be known about this disease, as figures are showing Empowered to Rise
43
CARAIFA
our associate member territories are
The Genesis of CARAIFA In 1976 the National Association of Life Underwriters (NALU), which is based in the USA, and with whom
Vision
LUAJ was affiliated as associate member, increased its
To be the regional unifying organization that
membership dues significantly. LUAJ’s President Earle
continuously and effectively anticipates and satisfies
Anglin and a board member, the late Owen Thompson,
the needs of its members and customers through the
visited NALU headquarters to protest the increase in
harmonious process of profitable relationships among
the dues but NALU was unbending. Consequently, the
all shareholders in the Insurance and Financial Services
board of the LUAJ took the decision in August 1976
Sectors for their mutually sustainable growth and
to withdraw its membership from NALU and seek the
development.
formation of a regional association. CARAIFA may, however, very well trace its conception to a very passionate appeal for Caribbean unity made by the late Samial Jadoonanan of Trinidad and Tobago to about 400 underwriters who were attending LUAJ’s Biannual Sales Congress in Ocho Rios in May, 1977. During the congress, a small group of representatives from Jamaica, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago met to discuss some of the points that were made by Samial Jadoonanan and they resolved to continue their discussions after the congress, incorporating representation from the Life Underwriters Association of Barbados.
The Mission CARAIFA fosters: cooperation, interaction, togetherness and unity among members of the Life Insurance and Financial Service industry in the Caribbean; through its educational courses, annual congresses, meetings and programmes. We are committed to viability, continuous growth and development, as well as improving the public image of our members and industry’s high ethical standards, monitoring marketing practices and pursuing this mission with competence and integrity, to provide maximum service to our membership.
The first annual general meeting became a reality on October 31, 1977, in Guyana, and present were representatives from Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago.
CARAIFA Sales Congresses CARAIFA hosts an annual conference of the Life Underwriters/Financial Advisors throughout the region in April/ May each year. Sales congresses have been held in Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Trinidad & Tobago, and in May 2018 it will be held in Jamaica. These congresses feature motivational and inspiring speakers from our region and international community.
44
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
CARAIFA Past Congresses YEAR
TERRITORY
THEME
DIRECTOR
1984
Aruba (Netherland
“Today, Tomorrow and You”
Jamie Ballentine
1986
Barbados
“Soar Beyond the Clouds”
Mark Norville
1988
Barbados
“The Power of Movement”
Mark Norville
1990
Aruba/Curacao
“A New Day Dawning”
Lionell Diage
1991
Jamaica
“Overcoming the challenges”
R.M. “Jim” Parkes
1992
Barbados
“For the love of Life”
Mark Norville
1993
Bahamas
“Strengthening the Stakes”
Anne Pratt Curry
1994
Grenada
“Pursue Excellence”
Chester John
1995
Jamaica
“Commitment”
Robert Robinson
1996
Barbados
“The Joys of Life”
Mark Norville
1997
Trinidad & Tobago
“Seize the Day”
Assad Mohammed
1998
Belize
“Vision 2000, The Challenge – The
Sandra McKay
CARAIFA
Antilles)
Commitment” 1999
Dominica
“Exalt Life – Hose Voye Moute”
Raleigh Steve Mellow
2000
Jamaica
“Picture the Possibilities”
Courtney Golding
2001
Trinidad & Tobago
“The Undiscovered Country”
Garth Thomas
2002
Belize
“The Challenge continues.... above &
Anna Romero
beyond” 2003
Grenada
“The Spice of Life”
Emond Lewis Mitchell
2004
Antigua
“Open the Door”
Novelle Williams
2005
Dominica
“A New Horizon...A Whole New World”
Wayne Alleyne
2006
Jamaica
“Will Power – Unite and Show the Power”
Pauline McKenzie- Fairclough
2007
St. Lucia
“Building Dreams...Changing Lives”
Leo Harrigan
2008
Barbados
“Creating Synergies – Maximize Effort
Wayne Alleyne
(CSME)” 2009
Trinidad and Tobago
“Linked by Water”
Louis McMayo
2010
Jamaica
“The Passage of Time…The Power of Love”
Pauline McKenzie- Fairclough
2011
Grenada
“Legacy of Love”
Robert Whyte
2012
Belize
“Today’s Excellence, Tomorrow’s Legacy”
Harrison Pilgrim
2013
Dominica
“Life’s Blessings”
Cheryl Rolle
2014
Jamaica
“Embrace the Future”
Earl Moore
2015
Trinidad & Tobago
“The Pursuit Continues”
Alicia Birch
2016
Antigua & Barbuda
“Capture the Vision”
Joshua Fabian
2017
Barbados
“Power of Imagination”
Keith King
Empowered to Rise
45
Meet our Past Presidents
46
Lincoln Morrison 1977-1978 Jamaica
Owen Thompson 1979-1982 & 1984 - 1985 Jamaica
Roy Sydney 1983 Trinidad & Tobago
Mark Norville 1986 – 1989 Barbados
Keith King 1990 – 1993 Barbados
Delton Phillips 1993- 1994 Jamaica
Alvin Alexander 1994 – 1996 Trinidad & Tobago
Livingston Carter 1996 – 1998 Barbados
Marcelle Fenton 1998 – 2000 Jamaica
William Wiltshire 2000 – 2002 Trinidad & Tobago
Marilyn Rice- Bowen 2002 – 2004 Barbados
Amado Marcano 2004 – 2006 Trinidad & Tobago
Rudolph Jackson 2006 – 2008 Jamaica
Maxim Marquez 2008 – 2010 & 2014 – 2016 Trinidad & Tobago
Emond Lewis Mitchell 2010 – 2012 Grenada
Pauline McKenzie- Fairclough 2012 – 2014 Jamaica
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
CARAIFA Hall of Famers
2004
2004
Earl Moore
Chester John
Jamaica
Grenada
2006
Marcelle Fenton Jamaica
Alvin Alexander (Deceased) Trinidad & Tobago
2007
Gladstone Pottinger (Deceased) Jamaica
2007 Dominica
2009
(Deceased) Barbados
Dwight Anthony “Tony” Williamson (Deceased) Jamaica
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
2005
2006
Michael Fraser
Curtis Tonge
2008
Antoinette Thompson
48
2004
Shirley Clarke
Jamaica
Barbados
2008
Oliver Jones Jamaica
2009
William “Nat” Wiltshire Trinidad & Tobago
CARAIFA’s Hall of Famers
2009
Kieth King Barbados
2010
Owen Thompson (Deceased) Jamaica
2012
Roy Sydney
Trinidad & Tobago
2010
R. Danvers “ Danny” Williams
Trinidad & Tobago
Jamaica
2012
Edward “Eddie” Balderamos Belize
2015
G.A. Harrison Pilgrim Belize
2011
Amando Marcano
2013
Frank Willimson Odle
2011
Thomas “Tommy” James Jamaica
2014
Patricia M. Gilding Barbados
Barbados
2016
Winston Basil Bennett Jamaica
Empowered to Rise
49
CARAIFA’s Hall of Fame nominee for 2018 is Mark Norville. Mark entered the life insurance business in 1975 with Barbados Mutual, now, Sagicor Life. His previous employments after attending Harrison College 1956- 1963 include being Reservation Control Clerk with BWIA, Chief Reservations Officer with British Airways, Reservation Manager Head Office Antigua for LIAT and Sales Manager (Barbados) for National Continental Corporation. While being a Sales Agent with Sagicor, he served as Director and Chairman of Fundraising (Life Underwriters Association of Barbados) 1977-1978, Director and Chairman of Membership (Life Underwriters Association of Barbados) 1978-1979, and President of Barbados Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors 1982-1983.
2018 NOM I NE E CARAIFA HALL OF FAME
MARK NORVILLE , CLU
Barbados
A versatile individual, he is a former Division One Hockey Player, Past President of the Lions Club and Rotary Club of Barbados, Past Member of the Empire Cricket Club, Active member of the St. George Anglican Church, Member of the Church Council, Past Member of the National Cultural Foundation Board, The Barbados Youth Service, represented Barbados at various football, hockey and athletics Meets, Member of the Barbados Masters and Senior Athletic Club, represented Barbados at the World Seniors Game and won two gold medals.
He has qualified for most of the industry’s top awards including :1976-1979 Barbados Production Award, 1977- 1978 Barbados Quality Award, 1978 Barbados Star Award Barbados Mutual and 1975-1983 Persistency Award (over 90%). He completed the Life Underwriters Training Course in 1977 and in 1981 qualified for the Chartered Life Underwriter degree (CLU). In 1983, Mark took the innovative step of becoming, Co-Founder and Director of Insurance and General Services Ltd, the first Life Insurance Brokerage in Barbados. The Brokerage Firm started with BDS$100.00 and one staff member and is now thirtythree years old and has a staff of fourteen and a very appreciative net worth. Mark served as President of Caribbean Association of Life Underwriters (now CARAIFA) 1986-1989 and during this period, worked with Governments of
50
God-fearing family man, Mark Norville is a skilled and experienced insurance professional, well versed in the art of organizing and is committed to providing quality service to clients. A Successful entrepreneur, he is a member of the Small Business Association of Barbados.
some Territories to establish a regulatory body to oversee the Life Insurance Industry. From 2005 to 2006 he served as President of the Barbados Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. An excellent Manager and Organizer, Mark has served as Barbados Congress Director for four Congresses: 1986 “Soar Beyond the Clouds”, 1988 “The Power of Movement”, 1992 “For the Love of Life” and 1996 “The Joys of Life”.
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
He is an author of “Group Benefit Plans and the contract” one of the modules in Introduction to Life Underwriting Course manual. He was the Association’s representative on the committee that was responsible for reviewing the Barbados Pension Act. He was also instrumental in the development of a Personal Accident Plan which is used by the Barbados Community. His outstanding involvement in the insurance industry, his service to the Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial advisors along with his involvement in activities that have served to enhance the image of insurance advisors in the Caribbean, CARAIFA is delighted to approve to its HALL OF FAME.
CARAIFA FOUNDATION LOGO
region needs to improve its capacity
The icon in the logo communicates a
to pursue such right now. Among
movement towards better health and
the needs would be infrastructure,
healthy living. With reference to the foundation’s aim, the logo depicts that the result of health education is a return to a healthier lifestyle.
trained medical specialists and 5. To fund research and
facilities and the appropriate
regional experiences
harvesting procedures for available
What makes the situation urgent is
MISSION
the fact that the prevalence of kidney
To improve the quality of life of
disease in the region is certain to
the sick and disadvantaged in the
increase. PAHO, in reporting on its
Caribbean community through
Meeting of Expert Working Group
wellness initiatives, education and
for Non-Communicable Disease
charitable funding.
Prevention and Control in the Caribbean, identified diabetes and
VISION To be recognized globally as the Caribbean’ s leading foundation, promoting healthy lifestyle choices and philanthropy. The Aim 1. To intensify all efforts to alert the population in all territories on the need to prevent kidney disease 2. To identify and pursue methods to strengthen the delivery of renal heath care in member states 3. To actively pursue and encourage transplantation as a
hypertension as among the leading causes of death in the region, and that the instances of these diseases were increasing. Among the main causes of kidney failure are diabetes and hypertension – these bedfellows account for 60% of kidney failure. The reality, then, is that the greater the incidences of these two silent killers, the more prevalent will be kidney complications and, subsequently, death. Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (CARAIFA) felt compelled to lend our support to efforts towards regional kidney
and their families throughout the region
organs. Regional Financial Capacity The cost to help kidney sufferers alive has been cited as being extremely high. In Barbados, the annual cost to keep one patient on dialysis treatment is US$25,000.00. For the 100 persons or so on dialysis treatment, that figure stands at US$2.5 million. How many of our small Caribbean economies can afford to provide this level of support for a small segment of their population? What is the cost for a large territory like Jamaica with a proportionate population percentage on dialysis treatment? Is there any wonder, then, that governments do not give this ailing sector much priority? The Value of Life The cost will be high but the value of a life cannot be measured by dollars
awareness.
and cents. It is our hope that persons
Transplant Priority
international, will join our efforts
method of kidney care 4. To improve the lives of patients
supporting staff, adequate operating
disseminate information on our
Priority should be given to a transplant programme and the
and institutions, both regional and and give generous support of ideas, funds and facilities.
Empowered to Rise
51
CARAIFA FOUNDATION: A Journey Through Time The CARAIFA Foundation has an
social initiatives. So strong were BARAIFA’s ties with that association that
interesting history.
they were able to take CARAIFA on board as a sponsor. As a member of the CARAIFA executive, Amado would have had some experience of
Amado Francisco Marcano recalls:
the benefits of that linkage. During this period, a Pan-American Health
“The history of The CARAIFA
Organization (PAHO) publication informed that “Kidney failure caused by
Foundation was born in 2003 at
hypertension and diabetes had been on the increase in the Caribbean.”
the ‘Spice of Life’ Congress held
All of this formed the catalyst that directed CARAIFA’s focus on persons
in Grenada during the presidency
with kidney disorders. Hence, the foundation’s first logo was in the shape
of Marilyn Rice-Bowen. The
of a kidney.
motivation which started it was one of my good friends, who was
In 2004, Amado (now CARAIFA’s president) proposed the formation of a
also the manager of Trinidad and
foundation to bring to the attention of the Caribbean the need to prevent
Tobago’s football team - ‘The
critical illnesses through health education, as well as to assist with the care
Strike Squad’, Richard Abraham,
of persons living with these illnesses.
got diagnosed with renal failure, and I realized the massive cost
Tyrone Lowe, the then BARAIFA president, was asked to provide the
for treatment. So, at that Annual
template for the foundation. He tackled the task of information gathering
General Meeting we started the
from each territory with fervor, and “did a massive amount of research
process of creating the foundation
work throughout the Caribbean to get all the facts in each territory and
specifically for kidney disease,
we developed tactics and action plans to bring it to life” (Amado). Lowe
because the world governments
became the foundation’s first chairperson.
and Caribbean governments could not support the population
The CARAIFA Foundation became a legal entity in 2005 when it was
of kidney patients. The budget
incorporated under the Companies Act of Jamaica on September 8 of that
was 1% so we had to find a way
year.
to assist. We also found out at that congress that there were
The Board of Directors convened its first meeting in Montego Bay,
many persons in our CARAIFA
Jamaica, at Congress 2006, hosted by the Jamaica Association of
community and/or family members
Insurance and Financial Advisors (JAIFA). In attendance were the founding
who had renal failure; so it was well
directors: Amado Marcano, Tyrone Lowe, Marcelle Fenton and Marilyn
received.”
Rice-Bowen. Also in attendance were the new Foundation Chair Doneth Brown-Reid, Rudolph Jackson (CARAIFA’s VP), Pauline Channer (JAIFA’s
Prior to this, the Barbados
president) and Dr. L. Lawson Douglas, a leading Jamaican urologist.
Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (BARAIFA)
The foundation has benefitted from the leadership of several individuals.
had partnered with the Barbados
The persons who have had the responsibility for chairing this body since
Kidney Association on several
inception must be commended for the yeoman service they have given.
52
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Caraifa Foundation
CORPORATE CONTRIBUTION: FOUNDER US$10,000+ annually for 5 years LEADER US$5,000 annually for 5 years PARTNER US$3,000 annually for 5 years PATRON US$ 2,000 annually for 5 years One time gift of $_____________ Recognition Awards will be given at annual CARAIFA Congresses. Contributions are tax deductible. First Name _________________________ Last Name _________________________ Title __________ Company _________________________ Address_________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ City _________________________ Country_________________________
PAYMENT INFORMATION Check or Money Order (made payable to CARAIFA FOUNDATION) Charge to Visa/ MasterCard/Discover Total amount $_____________ Name on card__________________________ Card Number_________________________ Expiration Date_____________ Signature______________________________________ Date______________
Email address _______________________ _____________________________________
CARAIFA is, indeed, indebted to these chairpersons for their contribution to the growth of its social arm. They are: Tyrone Lowe (Barbados), Doneth Brown-Reid (Jamaica), Emond Lewis Mitchell (Grenada), Wayne Alleyne (Barbados), Raziah Ahmed (Trinidad & Tobago), Fabian Carew (Trinidad & Tobago), Jacqueline McDonald (Jamaica), Curtis Dass (Trinidad & Tobago), Gerald Cruickshank (Trinidad & Tobago), and Pauline McKenzie-Fairclough (Jamaica). Foundation’s Logo Under the chairmanship of Wayne Alleyne, the logo was changed to what currently exists.
Empowered to Rise
53
The formative years of the
‘Gift of Life’ Recipients
foundation experienced slow
The name has seen a change from a ‘Gift of Love Sponsor’ to a ‘Gift
growth, both in the acquisition of
of Life’ but, regardless, it reflects the same ideal. The first ‘Gift of Life’
funds and regional recognition.
recipient was a young girl from Grenada in 2007. Since then, seven
At the onset, funding was raised
other recipients have been assisted. Recently, we decided to track these
mainly through the sale of ‘kidney
individuals and we came up with the following:
pins’ – 500 were ordered initially and donations. The amount raised was supplemented by proceeds from events put on by member associations to mark the Day of Common Concern (DOCC). Of note were the contributions made by Trinidad & Tobago and Belize from their 2004 DOCC fundraiser. The introduction of the ‘RAFFLE’ in 2007 as a fundraiser has become a calendar event. The drawing takes place annually at CARAIFA’s congresses, and is recognized as the
1. Zedina Bristol from Grenada received the ‘Gift of Life’ donation in March, 2007. She passed away on March 3, 2009. 2. Henrietta John accepted her donation at Congress 2007 held in St. Lucia. Her main platform delivery won the hearts of the congress attendees, resulting in added considerations for her. Her condition has worsened and she now has to seek medical care outside of St. Lucia. 3. Nashali Malara, our third recipient, received her ‘Gift of Life’ eleven (11) years ago. She continues to live with her parents in a remote area in Belize and has to travel 116 miles for her treatment. She would love to get a job, but the 348 miles travelled weekly for dialysis takes its toll on her. 4. Leebourne Reid received his donation in May 2010, in Jamaica. He
main fundraiser. This, coupled with
currently resides in the United States of America and is experiencing
pledges, has helped significantly in
eyesight failure.
boosting the foundation’s bottom line. We extend a hand of gratitude to all who have honoured their pledges, especially the platinum donors: Mark Chisholm (courtesy of Sagicor Jamaica), Maxim Marquez (Trinidad & Tobago), Harrison ‘Harry’ Pilgrim (Belize), and Edward ‘Eddie’ Balderamos (Cayman Islands), who
5. Victor Prime from Grenada was the January 2013 recipient. He died on September 21, 2016. 6. Cleveland ‘Livy’ Carter, a Barbadian, in February, 2013, was the 6th recipient. He died in July, 2014. 7. Jyoti Bann is a Trinidadian. Reports are that her condition has improved. 8. Creton Bourne is the April, 2017, recipient. He is awaiting a kidney transplant.
has the special honour of being a double donor. The presidents of the member associations were tasked with spreading the word about the foundation and identifying individuals suffering from kidney disorders who were in need of financial assistance for medical care.
The Day of Common Concern (DOCC) The Day of Common Concern (DOCC), October 31, is highlighted on our calendar each year. October 31, 1977, is the most significant day in the life of CARAIFA and, therefore, that date is celebrated annually as our DOCC. This day has been celebrated annually by member territories. Some celebrations have been vibrant and fulsome while others have been low-keyed, but there has always been a celebration. It, however, must be noted that often the planned events have had to be rescheduled for a day close to the exact date because, otherwise, it would just not have been convenient.
54
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
Porres Church. During the week, they participated in radio talk shows
Anniversary celebration on
and television programmes which exposed them to quite a bit of media
October 31, 2017. The year-long
coverage. The Liberty Children’s Home benefitted from a food drive, and
commemoration will culminate at
the association hosted both an appreciation day and a health fair. The
Congress 2018. The foundation
week culminated in a major fundraiser with the staging of their Ninth
was instrumental in this initial
Annual Red Night Gala! WOW!! Congratulations Belize and many, many
stage. Each member association
thanks.
was asked to plan a series of events during the week of October 31.
CARAIFA is justly proud that the foundation, notwithstanding its humble
The events identified were:
beginnings, is now firmly rooted in the region, to the extent that our
• Religious service
assistance is being sought. Persons are reaching out to us for assistance
• Fundraising
to have kidney transplants. This dialogue has forced the pitching of
• Health fair
fundraising to a different level.
• Media coverage The foundation continues to sponsor a main platform speaker at All associations indicated that they
CARAIFA’s annual congresses and 2018 will be no different. The
were on board, then, along came
foundation booth in the mall will have on sale raffle tickets, kidney pins
mister ‘Harvey’ and misses ‘Irma
and foundation souvenirs. The successful sale of these items will certainly
and ‘Maria’, and all hell broke loose.
increase our coffers.
The aftermath of devastation was to be seen in some of our member
Once again, I say thank you to our members and well-wishers who have
territories such as Dominica
contributed so generously over the past several years. I am confident
and Barbuda. The territories in
that that support will continue as we pursue our vision ‘To be recognized
the region that escaped or were
globally as the Caribbean’s leading foundation promoting healthy lifestyle
not badly damaged, started
choices and philanthropy.’
humanitarian drives to assist those in need. Consequently, only a few
As we open our hearts to giving, please consider this:
associations were able to enact any of the plans. Commendations are
“Chronic illness is hard,
due to BARAIFA (Barbados), TTAIFA
Pain is hard.
(Trinidad & Tobago), VINAIFA (St.
Isolation is hard
Vincent & the Grenadines) and
The financial cost is hard.
JAIFA (Jamaica) for hosting an
Grieving is hard and necessary and sometimes takes longer than we ever
event to mark the day.
imagine.”
‘Saving the best for last’ is
(Cindee Snider Re)
absolutely true in this case. Belize went all out. That association held
Pauline McKenzie-Fairclough
a ‘kick off’ celebration that made
CARAIFA Foundation Chair
the CARAIFA Foundation proud! It had an ‘Insurance Awareness Week’ of activities. It started with a church service at St. Martin de Empowered to Rise
55
Caraifa Foundation
CARAIFA kicked off its 40th
Advertisers must protect, support traditional media Desmond Allen - Founding Editor
Jamaica Observer founding Editor Desmond Allen addressing the Jamaica Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (JAIFA) at the Inauguration of it’s 65th President, Monica Robotham at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston on Tuesday, December 5, 2018
Veteran journalist suggests social media can’t be relied on for credible information Friday, December 08, 2017 Tweet Veteran journalist Desmond Allen has urged Jamaicans, in particular advertisers, not to abandon the traditional media sector in favour of social media, until the latter can be relied on for credible information. Allen, founding editor of the Jamaica Observer, argued that with all its benefits in promoting unprecedented people-to-people contact across various networks, social media was still “an information jungle which often makes it difficult to differentiate between fact and fiction”. This was one critical area in which social media differed from the traditional news media, which he described as largely the newspaper, radio and television, saying that their very survival is being threatened by serious financial pressure. “Anybody can upload just about anything on social media sites,” Allen, the current executive editor – special assignment at the newspaper, complained
56
CARAIFA’s 40th Anniversary and 32nd Annual Sales Congress 2018
“Anybody can upload just about anything on social media sites,”...
- Desmond Allen
your traditional media. Most of all,
“You don’t have to give us all that
Insurance and Financial Advisors
protect yourselves by checking your
blood and filth and perversion and
(JAIFA) at an inauguration
sources of information. Don’t be
the sewage of human degradation.
ceremony for its 65th president
too gullible,” the 44-year veteran
We need to know it exists, but
at the Knutsford Court Hotel in
cautioned. Acknowledging that
we don’t need to feed on it. “This
Kingston. “On the other hand, the
there were many people in society
is a challenge to us. It is not an
traditional media is constrained to
complaining that too much of the
easy idea, because once you
take each news item or allegation
information being fed to the public
raise the spectre of censorship,
through a cleaning process —
by the media is negative, Allen
the question that arises is where
checking all the facts, verifying the
suggested, “… Some want us to
do you draw the line? Whose
source, getting the other sides and
pretend that the negative is not
information do we hide? Whose
ensuring the balance, fair play and
there. Just imagine if we did that,
story do we not tell? “It takes
the other elements of professional
what would happen. Just imagine
great skill and understanding of
journalism - before the story is
the dark cloud of ignorance which
the social mix and dynamics to
published or aired,” he said.
would smite our society and leave
know how to dispose of the trash
it open to ambush. The one thing
of daily existence, without leaving
“There is a maxim in journalism that
we can’t afford is to not know. “And
a society to become a victim of its
says: ‘When in doubt, check it out;
there are those who really want the
own ignorance. We must face that
still in doubt? Leave it out.’ This is
media to expose the wrongs of the
challenge as journalists. We can do
much too often the exception on
other side, but not theirs. There are
no less.”
social media sites ... at a time when
those who would hijack the media
information is one of the most
for their own narrow, partisan use
Monica Robotham, a chartered
precious commodities of human
and pleasure.
underwriter at Sagicor, was
existence.
installed as the 65th President of “Yet, I won’t stand here and
JAIFA, pledging to work to uplift
“We are grateful that social media
pretend that I do not understand
its members and urging them to
exposed the mothers mercilessly
the concerns of some people, an
“find your passion, brand your life”.
beating their young daughters.
increasing number of people, who
Immediate Past-President Hugh
However, the news did not become
are asking us as a news media to
Meredith gave the charge to the
credible until the traditional media
be a little more discriminating in
president, and Past-President
had cleaned it up so that the
what we feed to the public and in
Courtney Golding was master of
authorities could act.
the proportion of what we feed to
ceremonies.
them. “I get a sense that as people “That is why I wish to argue that
run out of institutions that they
Jamaica needs to protect and
can trust and regard as credible,
support the traditional media, until
they are looking to the media to
we reach that point where we
keep faith with society. With all
can rely on the credibility of social
our faults and shortcomings, it
media. To consumers, I say continue
seems to me the nation is saying
to buy your newspapers; listen to
to the news media, we want you
your local radio stations and watch
to exercise choice more skilfully on
your local television broadcasts.
our behalf.
“Advertisers, continue to support
Jamaica Observer Friday, December 8, 2017
Empowered to Rise
57
Advertisers must protect, support traditional media
to the Jamaica Association of