Fifteen young leaders supported by the World Economic Forum have adopted a strategic programme to advance Jamaica’s social and economic development, following a summit convened in Rose Hall, Montego Bay.

The event brought together members of Global Shapers Kingston, the hub of exceptional Jamaican leaders under the age of 30. The group is part of an international network, founded in Davos, Switzerland by Professor Klaus Schwab, in 2011. Today, the community comprises more than 500 hubs across 154 countries, empowering selected young leaders to collaborate on solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

The strategy meeting was led by Ashlie Robinson, Curator of Global Shapers Kingston, who outlined three priority areas that will guide the Hub’s work over the coming year.

“We have agreed on a focused agenda that addresses Jamaica’s most significant opportunities and challenges, including the advent of artificial intelligence, targeted social interventions to improve outcomes for young men and boys and education to improve Public Health” said Ashlie Robinson (Curator, Global Shapers).

Positioning Jamaica for the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Recognising artificial intelligence as one of the defining forces shaping the global economy, Global Shapers Kingston will launch a series of executive engagements examining the application of AI across industries.

“We are collaborating with leaders in the Caribbean who are helping to shape the future of AI and exploring how these technologies can strengthen our economies, improve productivity and create new opportunities for growth,” said John Paul Anderson.

The programme will gather business leaders, policymakers and innovators to discuss how organisations can responsibly leverage artificial intelligence in optimising processes, reducing operational risk and driving growth.”Artificial intelligence is one of the most transformative developments of our generation; it’s imperative that Jamaica moves with speed and intent to realise its benefits” Thara Johnson-Reid explained

Investing in Jamaica’s Young Men

Alongside its focus on technology, Global Shapers Kingston has reaffirmed its commitment to social development through initiatives to uplift boys and young men in underserved communities.

“Jamaica cannot afford to ignore the crisis facing our young men. Leaving high school without skills or options, they remain at the centre of the country’s violence epidemic as both victims and offenders. Protecting our social fabric requires practical interventions now, before the damage to our families becomes permanent,” said William Henlin

The Hub will continue to deliver MenD, a charitable mentorship initiative first spearheaded in 2019 by Timar Jackson, an alumnus of Global Shapers Kingston. The programme prepares young men leaving school with mentorship, guidance and practical support as they transition into employment and further education. Participants graduate with tangible outcomes such as a certified vocational skill, a viable business plan developed through direct mentorship or exposure to professional conferences and networking opportunities.

“Research shows that there are several psychosocial factors affecting outcomes for boys in Jamaica; we’re contributing to help drive improvement for men across the board, ” William Henlin explained. Applications for the next MenD cohort are expected to open in Autumn 2026.