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As Jamaica celebrates its 64th year of Independence, Sagicor Group Jamaica (Sagicor) is reinforcing an important message for young Jamaicans: cultural pride is strongest when paired with the knowledge and financial preparedness needed to build a secure future.

Through its continued $5 million sponsorship of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) 2026 celebrations, culminating in the Independence Grand Gala on August 6, Sagicor is complementing its support for Jamaican culture with financial literacy initiatives that help participants protect and secure their financial futures.

In keeping with that commitment, the finalists in the 2026 JCDC Festival Queen Competition, which concluded on August 1, participated in an interactive session focused on insurance awareness and financial literacy. Hosted by Sagicor representatives, the engagement explored how young adults can prepare for life’s uncertainties while making informed financial decisions that support their long-term goals.

Representing Sagicor Life Jamaica, Maurice McLeod, Financial Advisor, encouraged the young women to view insurance as an essential pillar of financial wellness rather than an optional expense.

“Insurance is about protecting your future and the people who matter most. It’s not just protection for you, but for your family as well. Be proactive in planning for tomorrow because financial security doesn’t happen by chance. At the end of the day, it’s not how much you earn that matters most; it’s how much you keep and how well you protect it.”

Kerry-Ann Brainsford, Manager, Commissioned Sales at Sagicor Bank, encouraged participants to develop strong financial habits and make saving a priority.

“One of the most important financial habits you can develop is to pay yourself first. Before you spend on anything else, put money into your savings because that’s an investment in your future. Create a budget, be intentional about how you manage your money and save consistently. Financial security isn’t built overnight; it’s built through discipline and the small decisions you make every day.”

Tiffany Lawson, Financial Advisor at Sagicor Life Jamaica, Holborn Branch, challenged participants to think of themselves as building a personal brand and to invest intentionally in their growth.

“You are your own brand, so be intentional about how you present yourself. Build your brand with discipline, establish your ‘why’ and identify what sets you apart from others in your field. Remember that first impressions matter, so always put your best foot forward. Invest in yourself, continue learning, and strive for a healthy work-life balance that allows you to succeed both personally and professionally.”

Barbara Grant, Financial Advisor at Sagicor Life Jamaica, Employee Benefits Department, reminded participants that resilience and adaptability are just as important as technical skills.

“Be prepared to pivot when circumstances change. Confidence is built through experience, so don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Not every opportunity will go your way, but there is strength in handling setbacks with grace. Learn from every experience, remain resilient, and keep moving forward with confidence.”

President and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica, Christopher Zacca, noted that the Festival Queen programme continues to produce exceptional young women who represent the very best of Jamaica.

“The Festival Queen competition celebrates leadership, confidence, and service. We are proud to support these remarkable ambassadors and to provide experiences that complement their personal development. By investing in financial education and preparedness, we’re helping to equip them with tools that will serve them well beyond the competition stage.”

The session resonated strongly with the contestants, who welcomed the opportunity to learn more about managing their futures.

Miss Portland, Christina Williams, who was crowned Miss Jamaica Festival Queen 2026 on August 1, described the session as an enriching experience.

“A great deal of thought went into curating a financial literacy session like this. I appreciate the facilitators for teaching us practical skills, from budgeting and financial planning to understanding the importance of insurance. I learned so much, and I’ll definitely be putting it all to good use.”

Meanwhile, Miss Clarendon, Jenieve Richards reflected on the value of financial education for young adults, noting, “The session was exceptionally well executed. Sagicor packaged financial wellness in a way that was engaging, practical, and easy to understand. It’s the kind of knowledge every young person should have as they prepare for the future.”

The engagement forms part of Sagicor Group Jamaica’s broader commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening communities and supporting initiatives that preserve and celebrate Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage.

As the nation looks forward to the remaining Jamaica 64 Celebrations, Sagicor is proud to partner with the JCDC in delivering programmes that both honour Jamaica’s traditions and prepare the next generation of leaders for the future.