Are people scared of change?

Hi, what are some innovative business ideas that you think is really needed in Jamaica currently and why? I’m doing a market research thanks.

It has been a popular notion That Chinese nationals who immigrate to Jamaica are given Loans to establish businesses, that Jamaican born people are denied. Is this how true Because If you are a Born Jamaican your more likely to have assets that you can leverage and use as collateral. Or is it just some thing people say without any proof?

Let’s talk about why this matters so much, not just for Jamaica but for everyone hustling with big dreams and even bigger goals. And, since we’re already here, let’s celebrate some of Jamaica’s greatest business icons who paved the way and showed us what’s possible when you mix a bit of grit, island charm, and boundless vision.

Nigel Clarke: The Man, The Mind, The Moment

Clarke isn’t your typical headline grabber, but when he makes the news, it’s worth paying attention. As Minister of Finance, Clarke steered Jamaica through financial reforms that didn’t just keep the economy afloat but made it stronger. His policies were like a breath of fresh air—bold, effective, and rooted in a vision for long-term growth. And now, at the IMF, he’s taking that expertise global.

Why does this matter? Well, it’s not every day that someone from our small but mighty island gets a seat at the table where major financial decisions are made. This appointment means Jamaica’s voice—and by extension, the Caribbean’s voice—gets a little louder on the global stage. It’s a moment that says, “Yes, we’re here, and yes, we have something valuable to contribute.”

Check out the full story of Nigel Clarke’s appointment here.

The Trailblazers Who Paved the Way

Nigel Clarke’s big move didn’t happen in a vacuum. Jamaica has always been home to some of the most brilliant minds in business. Here are a few names that every aspiring entrepreneur and go-getter should know:

1. Michael Lee-Chin: The Billion-Dollar Visionary

Michael Lee-Chin is that guy who shows up in every “success story” conversation for a reason. Born in Kingston, he went from modest beginnings to becoming a billionaire, thanks to strategic investments and his company, Portland Holdings. But it’s not just the money; it’s what he does with it. Lee-Chin has donated millions to educational and health causes, giving back to the communities that shaped him. That’s how you do it, right? You make it big and then use your success to lift others.

Want to know how Michael Lee-Chin built his empire? Click here.

2. Butch Stewart: The Hospitality Legend

The late Butch Stewart was the ultimate innovator, turning Sandals Resorts into a global luxury brand synonymous with Caribbean paradise. He didn’t just build hotels; he built an empire that put Jamaica’s tourism on the map in a way that few others could. And let’s not forget, his ventures created jobs for thousands of Jamaicans and poured millions back into the local economy. Stewart was proof that with vision and relentless dedication, you can build a legacy that benefits more than just yourself.

3. Chris Blackwell: The Music and Business Maestro

Chris Blackwell didn’t just discover talent; he propelled it to the global stage. Founder of Island Records, Blackwell brought reggae to the world, launching legends like Bob Marley. His influence doesn’t stop at music; he ventured into luxury resorts, showcasing his knack for blending culture and business seamlessly. Blackwell taught us that sometimes the best business strategy is to be yourself—authentic and unapologetically so.

Learn more about Chris Blackwell’s journey from music to luxury hospitality.

Honourable Mentions: More Names, More Impact

While we’re here, let’s give a shout-out to other Jamaicans who’ve left their mark:

• Joseph John Issa: Known for his ventures in hospitality and retail, Issa combined business savvy with philanthropy, proving that success can come with heart.

• Patrick Casserly: A name you might not hear often but should. Casserly made waves in the tech world by building and selling call center companies for millions

• Ray Chang: Though based in Canada, Chang’s business acumen and generous philanthropy were influenced by his Jamaican roots.

Explore more about influential Jamaicans who changed the game.

What Nigel Clarke’s Appointment Means for Us

This isn’t just about Clarke or the IMF. It’s about every Jamaican kid who’s been told that dreams should be limited to the island’s shores. It’s about every young entrepreneur with big ideas and even bigger challenges. Clarke’s appointment is a powerful reminder that our roots can anchor us, but they don’t limit us. We can reach beyond them and make a difference anywhere in the world.

And hey, if you’re looking to keep that Jamaican spirit alive wherever you go, learning a bit of Patois is a great start. Trust me, nothing breaks the ice faster than greeting someone with a hearty “Wah gwaan?” It’s a bridge to deeper connections and a way to carry a piece of Jamaica with you, no matter where life takes you. That’s why I always keep my Talkin Patois game nearby—because if you’re going to represent Jamaica, why not do it with a touch of language and a whole lot of love?

Jamaica, we’re more than just a dot on the map. We’re dreamers, doers, and trailblazers. And with leaders like Nigel Clarke, we’re proving that we’re here to make a mark.

One love. 🌴✨

https://radiojamaicanewsonline.com/local/pm-urges-jamaican-businesses-to-seek-markets-in-the-wake-of-trump-tariff-imposition

this is what the Prime Minister said, encouraging us to find new markets. He has turned what looked a disaster into an opportunity.

What are the tax implications for a person who makes their living through day trading on the US stock market while living in Jamaica. Do you pay taxes on the portion of profits you pay yourself as salary, or do you pay taxes on all the profits you realize? I’m going to schedule a consultation with an accountant but I was just wondering if anybody has an idea.

I'm going to miss the old Mobay

Hello!

I’m a Jamaican abroad that’s looking to start a business that positively impacts the island. I haven’t been back since 2019, so much of my knowledge comes from family still on the island and the news. I’m in my mid-20s now (and would like to move back), so I know to take a lot of the crime statistics with a grain of salt. However, I’m concerned about how increasingly global the island is becoming in enterprise considering the people aren’t really benefiting as they should (in cases like bauxite; completely being screwed).

My original plan was to start an international boarding academy to get Jamaicans abroad and foreigners in, then to use the funds to develop the immediate area and outward (shops and markets were my favorite places to visit, and I feel like the option to consistently make foreign currency would be extremely beneficial to merchants). Now I’m a bit concerned about this plan - is this something that my people actually need right now? I would love to eventually step into the sports development realm with this, but is this something that the people even wants?

When I look back at my time growing up, I can’t say the island was the same. Granted, my perspective comes from growing up in willowdene & cave valley. How would I go about researching what the people of the island need the most? (my family there says do what I want/start a bar, my family here can’t believe I’d want to go back, and the information on the internet is interesting when it comes to Jamaica.

Cheers to any insight!