Equipping Jamaica’s Youth at the Ready Set Great Youth Conference: A Step Toward Digital Skills and Financial Independence
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On October 17th, Internet Income Jamaica (IIJ) proudly joined a wave of ambitious young Jamaicans at the Ready Set Great Youth Conference at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston. Hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in recognition of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, this event was a hub of inspiration and empowerment. With a mission to give Jamaican youth the skills and confidence to carve their own paths in the digital world, the conference brought together youth, educators, and industry leaders with a shared vision: building a future where financial independence is within everyone’s reach.
For our team at IIJ, being part of Ready Set Great was a chance to connect with young people ready to explore digital careers. We came to show them that with the right skills, the digital economy holds endless opportunities for self-sufficiency, growth, and success.
Insights from the Panel: Digital Marketing in the Age of AI
One of the most engaging moments of the day was the panel discussion, “Digital Marketing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” Here, our own Nadeen Matthews Blair took the stage alongside two of our standout students, Mitzie Steward and Oshaine Michaels. Together, they explored how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping digital marketing in ways that make it more accessible, especially for newcomers.
In the panel, Nadeen and our students shared practical ways that AI can be used in digital marketing, helping attendees see that AI isn’t only for tech professionals—it’s a resource that anyone can leverage to boost productivity. The session broke down common misconceptions about AI, showing that with the right guidance, it’s a tool that can support financial goals and make digital tasks more manageable. By the end, participants saw AI as a practical asset, one that could help them enter and thrive in the digital economy.
The session left the audience with a fresh perspective: AI isn’t just for tech experts or big corporations; it’s a practical tool that anyone can use to stay competitive and productive. This empowering message resonated with young Jamaicans eager to explore how digital skills could become the backbone of their financial independence.
Making Connections at the IIJ Booth: Pathways to Digital Success
The IIJ booth was another highlight of the day, bustling with attendees eager to learn more about what digital skills could mean for their futures. Throughout the conference, our team welcomed young people to explore AI programs, freelancing resources, and practical training designed to build successful online careers. We had the pleasure of answering questions, guiding first-time freelancers, and sharing real examples of how digital skills can turn passion into income.
To add a bit of excitement, we held a raffle for a Halo Power Charger—a small but meaningful reminder of the importance of staying “powered up” in a connected, digital world. It was a fun way to engage the crowd, but it also underscored an important point: with the right support and tools, Jamaica’s youth can stay motivated and prepared to succeed in the digital economy.
A Shared Vision for Jamaica’s Digital Future
For Internet Income Jamaica, being part of the Ready Set Great Youth Conference was more than a single event—it was a step in a broader journey to empower Jamaica’s youth. By partnering with the UNDP and other committed organizations, we’re working together toward a shared vision of a digitally connected and inclusive future. Events like Ready Set Great show that when we invest in skill-building, we’re investing in a future where more Jamaicans can secure stable, self-sufficient careers that positively impact their lives and communities.
Our role at IIJ is to bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement. Each training session, mentorship program, and event reinforces our commitment to empowering Jamaica’s youth to realize their potential in the digital world. With every young person who steps into a digital career, we’re one step closer to creating a resilient, economically empowered Jamaica, ready to thrive in a connected global landscape.
