02/11/2026
**2026 Global Jamaica Diaspora Council – USA South Region Town Hall (Part 1)**
**Meet the Candidates • Hear Their Vision • Strengthen the Diaspora**
This powerful town hall brings together candidates for the **2026 Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC)** and **Youth Council** representing the **USA South Region**. Hosted by **Dr. Nicole Bent Jones** and **Hon. Peter Gracie**, this session introduces eight dynamic candidates committed to service, advocacy, and strengthening the bridge between Jamaica and its global family.
Across 13 states — **Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Tennessee** — Jamaicans gathered to hear the candidates’ vision for diaspora engagement, economic empowerment, cultural preservation, youth leadership, and national development.
---
# # **🎤 Featured Candidates – General Council**
- **Amanda Dow** – Registered Nurse (Georgia) | Global health equity, nursing collaboration, disaster response
- **Dianne “Ginga” Watson** – IT Project Manager (Florida) | Community activism, volunteer leadership, healthcare & culture
- **Gillian Murray** – Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Florida) | Mental health advocacy, social justice, community outreach
- **Janice McIntosh** – Business Leader (Florida) | Strategic partnerships, diaspora empowerment, economic development
- **Katy Edwards Campbell** – Corporate Finance & Film Producer (Florida) | Arts & culture, creative industries, diaspora investment
- **Rosemary Roth** – Pastor & Humanitarian (Florida) | Disaster relief, education, community empowerment, cultural preservation
# # **🎤 Featured Candidates – Youth Council**
- **Jayonne Richards** – MBA Candidate & Nurse (Georgia) | Youth engagement, health advocacy, dual citizenship awareness
- **Zoe Chin Loy** – Author & Nonprofit Founder (Florida) | Cultural education, sickle cell awareness, youth empowerment
---
# # **🗳️ Key Topics Covered**
- The role and purpose of the **Global Jamaica Diaspora Council**
- Candidate introductions and personal journeys
- Strategies for diaspora representation and advocacy
- Strengthening ties across all 13 southern U.S. states
- Healthcare, mental health, education, arts, culture, and economic opportunity
- Youth engagement, dual citizenship, and cultural identity
- Disaster response and lessons from **Hurricane Melissa**
- Community questions on returning home, safety, investment, and the idea of the diaspora as Jamaica’s “15th parish”
---
# # **📅 Election Details**
- **Voting Period:** January 28 – February 20, 2026
- **Results Announced:** February 24, 2026
- **Register & Vote:** Visit **ConnectMeJa.com**
Your vote helps shape the future of diaspora leadership and Jamaica’s global development.
---
# # **🌍 Why This Town Hall Matters**
This session highlights the passion, expertise, and commitment of Jamaicans across the diaspora who are ready to serve. From healthcare to culture, from youth empowerment to economic strategy, each candidate brings a unique perspective rooted in love for Jamaica and dedication to community.
This is more than an election — it’s a movement of unity, accountability, and impact.
---
# # **🔗 Stay Connected**
- Weekly **Consul General Community Updates**: Tuesdays at 2 PM EST
- Hurricane Melissa Relief links shared during the session
- Follow diaspora organizations, alumni groups, and community hubs across the region
---
# # **💬 Join the Conversation**
What issues matter most to you as a member of the Jamaican diaspora?
Comment below and share your thoughts.
