Wayne Cummings, Sandals Resorts’ director of business processes and administration, chats with contributor Marjorie LaRoche
Wayne Cummings, Sandals Resorts’ director, business processes and administration, has listed the contribution of the diaspora to Jamaica as hugely beneficial, even as he urged investors to consider Jamaica for their businesses.
Speaking to sponsors and US-based Jamaicans last Saturday night at the Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO) 21st annual gala and awards ceremony at the Hilton, JFK, Cummings, the guest of honor, implored those in attendance to take another look at Jamaica as a place to do business and raise their families.
“No need to give up any of your allegiances; it’s a global space so use it to its full avail. We need and appreciate the remittances, so please keep that coming, but also look again at the ‘Rock’ as a place to do business and make money,” he said.
“With all our faults, Jamaica and Jamaicans remain an exciting proposition. The proverbial chicken and egg is what’s holding us back, but I am firmly of the view that what’s going to make the difference for our people and country is the provision of jobs and opportunities for all, not just some of our people. So the entrepreneurs and investors among you, bring your capitalist aspirations home and see if we can’t find some hard-working Jamaicans to make you proud. Remember though, while you consider the possibilities, that the Spanish, Chinese and others are eyeing these opportunities too.”
Cummings explained that the remittances that flow through the financial institutions must never be underestimated, but said Jamaica is ripe for investments, and it’s time for Jamaicans to take on the growth agenda and not wait for Government to lead it.
“I have worked over 26 years in the tourism industry and have seen it grow from strength to strength and in so doing understand how hard it is to ensure the $2.1 billion of annual inflows into the country,” the former Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association president said.
“Conversely, the seeming ease by which the $1.9 billion of remittances that come to Jamaica arrive there, belies that blood sweat and tears you experience to make this happen.”
He acknowledged that on every front, other than economic, Jamaica punches higher than its weight.
Read the full story at jamaicaobserver.com
