Remarks by
Wayne Henry, CD, JP, PhD
Director General
Planning Institute of Jamaica
Best Practices in Community Development Symposium
November 13, 2024

Good morning distinguished colleagues, partners in development, community leaders, and all valued participants.

Today marks the ninth staging of the Best Practices Symposium in Community Development, a collaboration among six dedicated agencies, namely: the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) through our Community Renewal Programme (CRP); the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB); the Ministry of National Security (MNS); the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF); the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB); and the Social Development Commission (SDC). I am truly honoured to welcome you as we come together once again to celebrate impactful achievements and inspire the future of community transformation.

This symposium has long been a platform for showcasing transformative initiatives that uplift vulnerable and at-risk communities globally. It has fostered a meaningful exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration among entities committed to community advancement. Last year, for example, we illustrated how Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is successfully applied in behaviour modification in Jamaica and beyond. We also highlighted the ground-breaking work of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, California—a model for rehabilitating gang members and ex-convicts—demonstrating that transformative programmes are possible and replicable in marginalised communities across the world. These efforts serve as guiding examples, showing us that impactful initiatives, tailored to the unique needs of communities, can create lasting change. We are therefore proud that the PIOJ’s own CRP played a foundational role in establishing this important annual event.

Against this backdrop, it is fitting that this year’s symposium focuses on “Tools for Transformation and Development”, featuring proven methods employed by our partners here in Jamaica and internationally. We trust that the themes explored today will inspire those engaged in community development locally, equipping them with insights and practical approaches to continue the work of uplifting our marginalised communities. As always, the symposium will feature community enterprises from CRP-targeted areas, showcasing products and services of exemplary quality that demonstrate the strength and resilience within these communities. Community development, we know, relies not solely on welfare but, more crucially, on enterprise and innovation—qualities that foster sustainable growth from within the communities.

As we look ahead, I encourage all participants to fully engage with the wealth of knowledge, experiences, and networking opportunities available throughout this forum. Let us draw inspiration from each other as we work towards the shared goal of community transformation for Jamaica’s sustainable development.
Thank you for your commitment and participation, and I look forward to the fruitful discussions that will follow.

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