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Not every memorable moment at the Jamaica Diaspora Conference happens on stage.

Ray Dee and Debbie Jolly, two cousins with roots in Grange Hill, Westmoreland, met for the very first time by chance at the conference. Both are relatives of Denham Jolly, the Jamaican-born entrepreneur who launched Canada's first Black-owned and operated radio station.

As Debbie put it, "You never know who you could be related to." A beaming Ray Dee was delighted by the chance encounter, adding that "this conference made it possible," while giving a special shout-out to Grange Hill. ❤️

For many attendees, one of the most valuable parts of the Jamaica Diaspora Conference is the Government at Your Service programme.

The initiative brings together key government agencies, including NIRA, Tax Administration Jamaica, Jamaica Customs, the Administrator General's Department and the Companies Office of Jamaica, giving participants direct access to services, information and support.

Whether applying for a National ID, obtaining a TRN or birth certificate, seeking guidance, or starting important administrative processes, attendees can accomplish in a few days what might otherwise take weeks or months.

It's one of the many ways the conference helps strengthen the connection between Jamaica and its global diaspora while making government services more accessible to Jamaicans living overseas.

Marlon Hill gives us a brief overview of Day 2 of the Jamaica Diaspora Conference, where the Marketplace took centre stage.

Exhibitors welcomed visits from several government officials, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith and Minister of State Alando Terrelonge.

The concurrent sessions continued with expanded discussions on security and education. Day 2 also placed a special focus on building back stronger after Hurricane Melissa and, perhaps most importantly, on mental health and wellness.

There were also plenty of opportunities to network, build partnerships and connect with Government of Jamaica agencies through the Government at Your Service programme.

Are there too many Airbnbs in Jamaica?

Returning residents Jean Garwood and Maureen Scott-Douglas argued that in some communities, short-term rentals have become so dominant that neighbourhoods are beginning to feel "lifeless" and "soulless."

They are not calling for a ban on Airbnbs. Jean is an Airbnb owner herself. Instead, they believe there should be limits in residential communities to help preserve a sense of belonging, neighbourly interaction and community life.

Do you agree? Should Jamaica consider capping the number of short-term rentals in residential areas?

Share your thoughts below.

🇯🇲 Day 2 of the Jamaica Diaspora Conference put the spotlight on the Marketplace.

Exhibitors had the opportunity to showcase their products, services and initiatives as Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of State Alando Terrelonge, along with other ministers, dignitaries and business leaders, toured the exhibition area throughout the day.

Beyond the sessions, the Expo Hall was buzzing with conversations, networking and opportunities to connect directly with key decision-makers and members of the diaspora community.

Stay tuned for our full Day 2 recap and more interviews from Jamaicans across the diaspora.

More than 1,000 delegates from around the world gathered in Montego Bay as the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference got underway.

From the Governor-General's Achievement Awards to insightful discussions on investment, education, returning residents and nation-building, Day 1 was packed with meaningful conversations and connections.

Jamaicans.com correspondent Marlon Hill breaks down the key moments, highlights and takeaways from the opening day.

🎥 Watch the full Day 1 recap below and stay tuned for daily coverage from Montego Bay.

The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference is officially underway in Montego Bay, and Jamaicans.com is on the ground all week bringing you the stories, people and moments that matter.

From inspiring conversations and thought-provoking discussions to cultural showcases and networking opportunities, we'll be capturing the highlights and sharing them with our global community.

Whether you're attending in person or following from abroad, stay connected with Jamaicans.com for interviews, photos, videos and daily updates from the conference floor.

It's good to be back on the rock! 🇯🇲

Xavier Murphy and Marlon Hill hosted our pre-conference link-up, welcoming first-time and returning visitors, delegates and diaspora representatives from across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

We kicked things off the Jamaican way with great food, music, dancing and good vibes, courtesy of Snappaz Seafood.

Now we're ready for a week of networking, fellowship, collaboration and meaningful discussions that will help shape the future of Jamaica and its global diaspora.

If you're attending the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, be sure to find us at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. If you can't make it, stay tuned to Jamaicans.com as we bring you highlights, interviews and coverage from throughout the week.

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This a diamond from passt episodes. The Show is currently called Straight Talk Sundays. This episode was called, Straight From The Heart ith Minister Marion Hall. Special thanks to Minister Hall for setting the reords straight as well as being a blessing to us all.