Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Delano Seiveright has emphasised the importance of Spanish fluency for Jamaican businesses, given the increasing investments from Spanish and Mexican companies.

He noted that Spanish is their primary business language, giving fluent speakers, particularly Dominicans and Mexicans, a competitive advantage. While not insisting that everyone learn Spanish, he stressed that companies seeking direct engagement must include Spanish speakers as a strategic necessity. 

Acknowledging his own challenges in dealing with Spanish-speaking investors, he urged Jamaican businesses to adapt, as the English-speaking Caribbean must adjust to the growing presence of Spanish-speaking investors.

Seiveright’s comments came as he delivered the keynote address at the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run at the Sandals Montego Bay Resort in St James on Monday. The event will run off on Sunday, May 4.

Meanwhile, foundation member of the Stewart MoBay City Run committee, Ashley Anguin announced that this year “we will have the first of its kind award ceremony named, Champions of the West, which will target high school students”.

“Athletes will be selected by their sports coordinators following the criteria that the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run special committee will set. For our first year, the sports will include football, swimming, basketball, track and field and tennis,” Anguin said.

“The aim is to have these young talents understand that we are not waiting for you to become a big name globally, we see you now, and we salute you now,” he added. 

The awardees will be selected from five parishes, including Westmoreland, Hanover, St James, Trelawny and St Elizabeth.

“A total of 10 awards will be given away. Eight in the name of our sponsors with an additional $50,000 to go towards their education and sports development. Sponsors like JetBlue, VIP Attractions, Catalonia, Rainforest Seafood etc. The top awards will be named JSMCR (Jill Stewart MoBay City Run) Sports Boy and Girl of The Year. These awardees will receive a $100,000,” Anguin said.

“The name perfectly captures the spirit of celebrating young athletes from western Jamaica. It suggests not only excellence in sports but also the idea of emerging leaders and heroes in the region. Our tagline is Where Future Legend Shine.”