By Tiffany Holman

On a momentous occasion like National Partnership Day, where notable figures from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate collaboration and unity, Howard Mitchell took the stage to deliver an enlightening and thought-provoking speech. His address not only acknowledged the esteemed attendees but also offered a platform to express his hopes and aspirations for his island nation.

With his characteristic blend of humility and wit, the prominent business leader began by expressing his gratitude for the substantial turnout at the event, humorously pondering whether the economy was flourishing or if it was time for him to take himself more seriously. He assured the audience that he would adhere to the allocated time for giving his speech, but not before recognising the influential individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping his life.

“Every single morning, I wake up with the realisation of my blessed good fortune for having them all in my life,” Mitchell remarked, expressing his deep appreciation for his support network.

While appreciating the event’s sponsors and The Pegasus hotel team for their invaluable contributions, Mitchell particularly singled out Gary Butch Hendrickson, a friend renowned for his humour and encouragement, along with other cherished friends like Glen Christian and Thalia Lyn, who personify responsible entrepreneurship in Jamaica.

However, the essence of his address revolved around reflecting on the values and attitudes that underpin the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), an organisation committed to advocating for a prosperous society rooted in integrity and accountability.

Mitchell emphasised, “The PSOJ has never been and must never be merely an advocate for the technical elements of success for commerce. Indeed, that is a part of its mission but more compellingly, it must advocate for good governance, for discipline, for respectful dealings and the rule of law equally and fairly applied in a democratic context.”

“In fact, I have tried my best since my original membership in the PSOJ in 1983 to operate my business ventures according to the code that the organization represents,” Mitchell affirmed, urging others to follow suit.

While acknowledging that his public statements might have stirred some controversy over the years, Mitchell highlighted the importance of free speech in our society. “Thankfully, free speech is still alive and well in our country,” he stated, embracing his role as a speaker of uncomfortable truths.

In a significant proposal, Mitchell advocated for a national values and attitudes campaign, involving all segments of society, to counteract the prevailing negativity. “I propose a national values and attitudes campaign encompassing all of our society and driven and motivated by a broad-based national steering committee,” he declared, envisioning a collaborative effort to reshape Jamaica’s cultural landscape.

Mitchell urged civil society to lead this initiative, as political leaders may find it challenging to simultaneously advocate peace while engaging in political discourse. In his view, the private sector should take the first step.

Furthermore, Mitchell called for a comprehensive review of the constitution and legislative framework to address systemic inefficiencies. “My friends, we know where the roadblocks and impediments are in our current constitution,” he asserted, stressing the need for a functional framework to guide Jamaica’s development.

The former PSOJ president emphasised that the responsibility for Jamaica’s transformation lies with all who desire true development. “It is our mission to work collaboratively to push back the negative forces and promote the values that build and strengthen,” he concluded, calling for unity and good values as the foundation of a prosperous Jamaica.

Howard Mitchell’s speech on National Partnership Day was a compelling call to action, promoting unity, good values, and accountability as the pillars of a prosperous Jamaica and served as a reminder that authentic progress as a nation requires the active participation of all members of society.