🇮🇪 ☘THE IRISH DIASPORA in Jamaica? 🇯🇲 I'm looking for people from the Irish Diaspora in Jamaica, who can participate in my video about the link between Jamaica and Ireland! Please contact me with the topic "Irish in Jamaica" here: jamaicawithirie@gmail.com === If Jamaica is so great, why are Jamaicans leaving? The so-called 🧠"BRAIN DRAIN" in Jamaica is one of the highest in the world, BUT guess what - the reasons for it are NOT what you think they are! The research I've done is bringing to life some factors that are hardly ever discussed in the media, so I hope you find this video interesting!
The term brain drain as it relates to Jamaica is misleading in that it gives the impression that the migrants are neurosurgeons , astrophysicists or computer scientist . The Jamaican diaspora for most purposes is a proletariat and it is loosely integrated into the host communities. There is a significant criminal stigma attached to this group as well . What is lost in the economic migration debate is the concept of purchasing power parity . A migrant from the Jamaican upper class is not going to be integrated into the upper classes in any of the host countries mentioned and for the most part exist in a strata below the lower middle classes are even part of the host country proletariat. The economic success are also not evident , how many multi millionaires are there in the diaspora mentioned ? How many companies are created and owned by the diaspora ? The diaspora is uniquely a working class heavily subsidised by welfare payments in their host countries . The economic benefits is limited to a second hand car , a mortgage and a credit card for those who are lucky all of which could have been attained with hard work and insight had they chose to be patriotic. The real pull factor of the emigration is low self esteem a lack of imagination and ideas and a continuation of participation in neo colonial reality . The merits of this emigration is going to be sorely tested in the new emerging reality of MAGA whether it’s Trump part 2 or Desantis The narrative of the migrants in Germany after the collapse of the Weimar Republic has not been heeded not that the migrants on the move nowadays would necessarily have the historical knowledge to benefit from this . In todays political environment the term migrant is a euphemism for a global nuisance, in the MAGA jargon they are rapist and criminals and the source of corruption of western civilisation just ask Tucker Carlson or Trump or MTG .
@@PL-ju2uj I see a racist bigot in this comment. Our doctors and nurses are worldwide, not to mention our engineers teachers. You my friend need to educate yourself and stop speaking from your arse.
@@PL-ju2uj hm, very interesting points in this comment and if you have some sources that you can share for this information about the Jamaican diaspora - I would really appreciate. So far, I was only able to find that 1/3 of all Jamaican emigrants have tertiary education, which means that are at least 33% of all people who migrate are not "low skilled" or "working class" people. My personal experience has also showed that a significant number of Jamaicans in the diaspora are VERY successful, whether we're talking about doing high level jobs or running their own business. A few of these Jamaicans are featured on my channel, for example check out the interview with Throp, whose Jamaican father built a large company in NYC or watch the interview with Mark Anthony Hill - a Jamaican artist who lives in the US.. I've also had the chance of meeting the subscribers of this channel who are the members of the Jamaican diaspora - highly successful and intelligent people, engineers, doctors, IT specialists, business owners etc. As for the argument of "not being able to get integrated into the upper classes".. well... the current vice president of the USA, Kamala Harris, is from the Jamaican Diaspora. How much "upper" can you go in the "upper class" than this? However, I haven't actually done a deep research on this, so if you can share some sources to back up the information you've provided in the comment, I would definitely be interested to study them. Thank you!
@@PL-ju2uj LOL! Since when does brain drain refer to neuroscientists? There a few on the planet and because Jamaica doesn't produce any (that I am aware of) means that we're all proles. Many of us are VERY well educated, by international standards. This is exactly what I meant when I suggested that the diaspora tries to hold Jamaica to ridiculous standards. Anyway, the TRUE Jamaican upper class (not upper middle class that most people see) are rich by world standards. I personally know Jamaicans who are US millionaires. Micheal Lee Chin is a Canadian billionaire. I know it's hard for some members of the diaspora to accept that Jamaicans are doing well, maybe even better than those abroad, but, come on! It is a true reversal of fortunes, but it is what it is.
@@PL-ju2uj excuse me, but trump will never be president, Carlson is a has been, and Desatan will continue to ruin Florida only. Most Jamaicans in the US are NOT on welfare. At least not in Massachusetts or Florida for sure, and I know plenty in NY that aren't. While there are too many MAGA dummies in Florida, they'll never be enough nationwide. Never was and never will. I'm surprised you ventured out from the safe haven of Twitter and truth social or whatever that failing dump is called.
My aunt was working in Jamaica for 30 years of her life and never had anything to her name. She went to the US and in 10 years, she's now retiring with a house in the suburbs in the US, a 7 bedroom mansion in Jamaica, 3 cars and one of her sons now has masters degree, the other is the CEO of a company. That's a success story of just one of my family members. I've seen first hand the countless amount of people in family and friend group who weren't able to achieve anything in Jamaica and went overseas and became successful. I'd love to stay here, but my ambition won't allow it.
@letsgrowandprosper6562 a mortgage only lasts 30 years if you pay the 30 year premium. If you increase your monthly payment, you can drastically reduce the amount of time it takes to complete your payment. I am well educated in economics. Don't do that.
@letsgrowandprosper6562bro you’re so dumb it’s hilarious. You know a mortgage can be way shorter than 30, 15 or ten years? Educate yourself and stop acting foolish
@@uchoobe1876 Facts, everyone thinks that you have to take mortgage, I know others who worked and bought their houses cash... Everyone does it different.
As a brit, I'm sorting out a Caribbean passport. There are many opportunities as its "being a big fish in a smaller pond" it's harder to make it in bigger countries
It took an imigrant to see the potentialities of our country. Thank you Irie for illuminating the consciousness of us Jamaicans home and abroad. You are a value added to Jamaica.
Love wish jamaica ? Mother fucker run away from Ukraine she a Ukrainian how all of a sudden them want live amongst people of color when them would not travel in the same train car that color people ride in ?
I'm a Jamaican living abroad as well, and like most Jamaicans living abroad I am ferociously proud to be a Jamaican and love my country. I may not like the things that the government is doing and all the opportunities it let's slip away from them to cultivate and build Jamaica as a country but I still love my country. And like many other Jamaicans abroad I would like to return to Jamaica someday but am weary. There is a tremendous opportunity in Jamaica to build it into the most prosperous Caribbean country in the West Indies as this commentator also realizes it has. The Jamaican government believes it has to rely on and compete with these oversees governments for prosperity. Which could not be further from the truth. If it builds on the natural and inherit aspects of the country the shortage of jobs for its inhabitants would significantly decrease, the crime rate would decrease (because a great deal of the criminality that goes on in the country is due to need, a hungry man is a angry man as the saying goes) the need for encouraging and implementing higher education especially in impoverished neighborhoods would skyrocket the growth and stability of the country, make these schools free or very low cost to attend so the students have the ability to learn. Stop believing in and buying into foreign produce, wear, and mentality, fortify the Jamaican, real Jamaican fortitude and culture. There is a reason people from all walks of life come there for our foods, clothes and culture. Build Jamaica by Jamaicans, invest in Jamaicans for Jamaica 🇯🇲 we will not be a world power, our country is only the size of Manhattan in NY but if we build or country up we'll be the shinning star of the Caribbean and West Indies. Skilled Jamaicans abroad want to come home, they want to establish businesses and help build. They need to see more care turned inward to the country and its people so they can help you build it to where its supposed to be. I only speak for myself and a multitude of others I know oversees that share this opinion. It's time for the government to stop focusing on whichever party it is and focus on the people of the country and the country itself and the brain drain will resolve dramatically and Jamaican prosperity and its people local and returnees will flourish.
@@angelafrancis6183the Jamaican... Government is lining their pockets with the money they should be using to build up Jamaica......we have greedy leaders that's Jamaica's problem!!!
Thanks for always exposing Jamaica in a positive way because we’ve been misguided to believe too many negatives about ourselves for over fifty years now. I welcome you as a new Jamaican to the nation of improvisers, brilliant and hard working people. 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲.
Thank you for this video. I've been telling Jamaicans that they don't need to leave. There is actually MORE opportunity in Jamaica to develop a business with less competition than the US. However, most Jamaicans are looking for a JOB. The jobs suck in Jamaica and if they were to change their mindset things would change. I was born in the US, but all of my aunts and uncles were born in Jamaica. Everyone who came to the US did less in their life than the ones who stayed behind and built businesses. All of them who stayed behind own their own homes, while almost all of my uncles and aunts in the US are still renting and waiting to rely on social security to retire. Now ready to retire, realizing they never amounted to anything in the US are now looking to go back to Jamaica and live there off their retirement money. I'm sure that my family's experience is not unique
Wow bredda so accurate foreign is a trap if you don't get a big opportunity in foreign it's hard to make something of yourself especially the last 15yrs
It’s not a one brush paint all. Jamaica might be better for some while the US might be better for others. I am now living in the US, not because it’s what I desired to do but because life in Jamaica got to the point where you have to know the right people, ignore the corruption, hope and pray you leave home and reach back safe, endure and accept extortion as a way of life if you decide to run any business (from selling sweets to running a big corporation) and I could go on and on. Sure it’s less freedom in the US and you have to work much harder but it’s far easier to navigate your way if you decide to retire in Jamaica. Jamaica is beautiful but we must admit the opportunities are getting less and less to the point where not even a masters degree guarantees you a good paying job to help you get a good foundation to start a business. I love my country to my heart but I am better able to provide for my family living and working here in the US.
@@user-lz5tq4lu4pYou have said exactly what I intended to. I would also like to add that Jamaica is just the way the powers that be want it. Now, there is talk about focusing on STEM, yet mostly call centres are being built as places of employment. Already, uni graduates have to be working in these places that pay so badly. I would wish that everyone could be a business owner because work/a job is simply a form of exploitation, and it's also just not going to happen. Jamaica is great as a tourist destination, so those who can will just have to go abroad and use the money earned there to enjoy life here.
@@prm2335Yep, and add to that, I family members who live in the states and they are much better off than they were while in Jamaica. Including my own parents. So rightly said, it's not always one size fits all
As a jamaican, living in Jamaica I've experienced many of my friends and family migrated. I've been always reluctant to leave, now I'm traveling and experiencing other countries firsthand, Ive decided Jamaica is my home. Thanks to you Irene, another reason to be proud
I know plenty of Jamaicans that didn't make it in America. Got cought up in crime and eventually deported. Had a divorce before their status was secured, etc
Irene I believe the trend of moving abroad will gradually slow down for a number of reasons including the economies of the big 3 not being as good as they used to be and also Jamaicans getting involved in the digital economy and content creation, farming etc.
yes, the trend is already slowing down, significantly. In fact, I hope we live to see a reverse trend for Jamaica - when more people coming to live in Jamaica than there are leaving.
You're so right. And I believe because so many Jamaicans now get visas with less stress than in the past, more people are seeing that the 'big 3' is really not what they thought. A lot more people are packing their bags and coming home to set up shop.
Thank you Irena for being a true Jamaican at heart. You are very analytic and balanced especially when it comes to the affairs of Jamaica. It takes someone like you, who is not a Jamaican by birth but by adoption to see the good in Jamaica. So many Jamaicans by birth cannot or perhaps refuse to see the positives that the country has to offer. We prefer to run away to other people' s country and help them build theirs instead of staying here and help our country with such great prospect, to become the place where families would want to live, work and do business.
EXACTLY, foreign life isn’t EASYYYYYY, and only a few actually build up this big life, and most of them that’s having a big life, are working all day everyday and cannot even enjoy the dream life they worked so hard for
As a Jamaican living in America, I must say this is one of the most informative videos I’ve seen about Jamaica. I commend all the research and work you’ve put into this. It’s undeniable that Jamaica would not be the Jamaica it is today had it not been for the opportunities that Jamaicans have garnered overseas but highlighting the history and broader dynamics that have driven the relocation of Jamaicans is eye opening and helps to put the country in a better light. Hopefully your work can help lead to a brighter future for Jamaica and Jamaicans. Thanks!
I left because as a child I didn't know the opportunities that were in Jamaica. My mom was poor because she missed alot of her years of education, due to sickness. She would have been unable to pay for a tertiary education for me, so i went to the uk, where at the time, it was free. I returned after that but realised my mom did not know the system in Jamaica to guide me as to how i could make something of myself there, so i went back to the uk, where i knew the system and how to get ahead. My heart has always been in Jamaica but i got married, had kids, so am caught up here, till retirement, then i will return to my beloved island. In contrast to my life. My cousin who stayed in Jamaica got a scholarship to go to a tertiary institution. She then got a job in her field, which sent her abroad to do her masters. Now she is a manager. She has her house, car and land, so she achieved living out there. My career was ruined by racism at work. I was blessed to have made the most of it before things got really bad. My point is that if you use the system in Jamaica, that is created to be used to navigate your way in life, which may i add is the same in the uk, you can make it in Jamaica. Jamaicans are blessed to have nht to help them have a house, over here we don't get that sort of help. Too often i hear songs and people cursing the system, calling it babylon. Maybe that's why they don't get ahead.
Do you know how much people pay into NHT and retire and still didn't get to own a home from NHT? You have to have certain amount of points to receive a house.
Love your videos. As a nurse, I would make poverty wages in Jamaica relative to what I make, and can potentially make, in the US. So sometimes it's impractical to move back, even if you would like to, without changing professions. Add to these the complication and expense of acquiring property, a vehicle, unlearning certain behaviors, and offloading debt, and it isn't always an easy, linear transition. Yes, this isn't everyone's story and some people can easily make the transition back home, but there's a story to be told for the many that couldn't even if they wanted.
An excellent, excellent video Irene, as usual. Your research is always thorough and your presentation is always objective NOT subjective meanwhile supporting and trying to build Jamaica, the country.
I almost checked every box. I’m a Jamaican emigrant with an Irish last name and whose father previously worked in Cuba in the 60s and 70s and he eventually emigrated to US via a skilled labor petition. Now my brother emigrated from US to Hong Kong. Well done exposé. However, only limited professions can land into the field they were in solely based on speaking English. You still have to receive a certification, license, etc. for example physicians have to USMLE. This could mean repeating all the schooling you did, as if you were never educated or trained. The same reasons I had in mind for people emigrating are the ones you identified. One issue I have is Jamaica makes it virtually impossible for their emigrants to invest in the country beyond real estate and remittances. I can write a book on how the government has sabotaged an investment (medical) which they acknowledged is well needed for a certain parish. It reinforced that even with pull factors, the government is at the root of the push ones.
Thank you for sharing the info! Yes, you're right of course about needing a certification, license etc, but this is relevant to ALL migrants regardless of their language and again - it's easier to qualify and pass the exams for these certificates/licenses if you're a native English speaker than if you're not. As for the investments into Jamaica for Jamaican diaspora - very interesting point. Could you share more information on this? What do you mean by sabotaged investment and what else is known? If you can, please share via email: jamaicawithirie@gmail.com, I'd be very interested in investigating this.
Grateful for this video. I discovered the Irish connection on my own when I heard an Irish man on TV and thought he was an upper-class Jamaican. From then, I knew that our Jamaican accent is Irish. Never knew that it was the legislation of the big three countries that created the migration in the first place. Everything that you said in this video about pull factors can be verified from experience. All my sisters are in the USA. Indeed it is not hard to migrate with this and no language barrier. Can't wait to see your video on opportunities in Jamaica. I think you will be influential on the culture of migrating as time goes by, by putting a dent in the current mindset. I'm really thankful to you.
All respect due coming from a Jamaican living in Jamaica…. Jamaica is a beauty place. Tons of opportunities in Jamaica no make money. However, the culture and mindset is what is tearing down the country. Not everything is the government’s fault. Some jamaicans literally leave because they want to be in a country where they feel like there is a structure and a system in place for everything.
She’s an asset but don’t give away the title of Jamaican so easily she’s a welcome guest. When blacks go to their countries we cannot be accepted as one of them so think about that . Calling them Jamaicans means you are giving your country to them. Aa has happened with Chinese there who are boldly telling descendants in the diaspora now that they are not Jamaicans. You are cooperating in being colonised gradually. Learn from history.
@@sashalawrence4786the original JAMAICAN people are the Taino and Arawaks. Have you not seen our national crest? Have you forgotten our national moto? They even named the Island - Xaymaca. Stop falsely claiming that Jamaicans are Black and that alone. There are descendants of slave owners, non slave owning whites, Chinese, Syrians and Indians (etc) still living in Jamaica much like the descendants of slaves dem. One is not more Jamaican than the other. One could perhaps argue that the former might have been here before the latter. Remember, Europeans landed in 1494 and the first slave ship didn't arrive till 1513. Then came the indentured Jews soon after, followed by Indians 1845 and 1854 Chinese - both migrating for economic reasons. In the early 20th century many middle eastern persons fleeing persecution settled in Jamaica. Jamaica is a melting pot of culture. There are Chinese and Indian families who have been here for nearby 200 years and Jews who have been here for around 500 years (almost as long as the first African slaves). Yet some Jamaicans refuse to accept them as Jamaican.
Thanks for this. Just by improving the infrastructure across the island-Road, water and electricity would go a long way in improving people’s quality of life here. Not everyone migrates for more money. Daily life in some areas of the island is really hard.
@gbb82 I hope that you are aware that poverty exists in America, and many people can't buy food or pay their rent and have to depend on the government for social assistance. The water in many states have contaminants, and there are bad roads too. You might not be aware of this, but the federal minimum wage in several states is $7.25 per hour. I see a lot of infrastructural development being done in Jamaica presently, young people and poor people are getting more loans from NHT to buy houses, places without running water for decades are now getting water, and young people can now get an associate degree for free. Electricity is an issue but Jamaica should be leaning towards solar. I believe within the next 10 years Jamaica will become a developed country.
@@mdl9096 Here we go again with the comparisons. Each time a long standing chronic issue in Jamaica is spoken about, the comparisons, deflections and denials come out of the woodwork. Communities without water for 6 months? Stop gripping is the response, there are poor people in America. Keep “hoping that I’m aware”.
@@mdl9096 Nice try. No where in my original post did I mention anything about America; you’re the one who came up a long list of issues in American society, as if Jamaicans who have to put up with bad roads, washed out bridges and no water cares one iota about what is happening in America, but that’s the response you want to throw in their faces.
Very impressive video. My family is Jamaican, but I was born in the US and raised in NY. I learned all types of things in this video I did not know. Keep up the good work! And Slava Ukraine!
Yuh nuh normal Irene, another well-researched video. Most of my family is already living overseas, but I stayed and made a good life. The thing is opportunities that fit all criteria do not exist in abundance. What I mean by that is from the lower to upper class there is no balance of wealth that can be tapped into that is at each level of wealth. Imagine my surprise when I went to the US and saw a guy make 500US collecting bottles from the garbage to recycle. There is no focus on things people can do that do not need education, so every Jamaican that lacks education is at risk of being used, and abused by companies and gangs. For example, Jamaica does not invest in the IT sector which is one of the largest sectors internationally with the advent of AI, gaming, etc. We still heavily tax IT parts for import, and companies sell old parts because old parts have no tax. By design, we are crippled by our taxation and other lack of insight. So yes opportunities do exist in Jamaica, but mainly in the middle and upper class. When I say there is no focus I mean islandwide, for right now solar energy should have been a booming market to drive down prices. I digress.
When I left Jamaica in 1991, it wasn’t because of crime and violence or because I was desperately poor, or even because I didn’t have a job with some benefits. Rather, I left because of greater opportunities here in the US.
As usual, you never fail to educate and enlighten. The truth is, we in the diaspora, are aware of the myriad opportunities present in our beautiful island, and would love, love to come back home. Not faulting you being on this gem only 9 years and growing, when we left….some 10, 20, 30, 40 years, ONE’S SAFETY, on coming home, was NEVER anticipated. Now it overrides or heads every decision. Remains eternally optimistic that conditions will improve.
You can't solve a problem by running away from it-the biggest problem is the mentality of the black people in JA-that's why the PNP & JLP has gotten 80 years to ruin the country.
Totally agree. I'm from the UK my parents are from Jamaica. I would love to settle permanently there. Even my nephew came on holiday and stated he would live there and he has 3 businesses in the UK! Badmind and corruption is a cancer. Sort that out and you will be shocked how many would come over from the diaspora and pump their money into the economy.
@@audreywright7788 Jamaican people for some reason has a "crab in a barrel" mentality. Even in the big corporations (Politics as well) as soon as one rises the others want to see you fall.
@@audreywright7788 if you have such negative opinions of Jamaica and Jamaicans, why would you want to live there? You state that your parents are Jamaicans, then you paint all Jamaicans with a broad brush, saying we are all bad minded and corrupt, with this attitude, I don't think most Jamaicans would welcome you to live on the island, maybe the UK is where you belong.
Love you, Irene, and keep promoting Jamaica. We need to get the government from destroying the cockpit country. This will destroy the under ground water system. If you haven't done a tour please engage in such by starting from Duncan in Trelawny, then Clarks Town, Jackson Town, Alps, Ulster Spring, Albert Town, Stewart Town(where massive bauxite mining is being down), Troy.
Government when Jamaicans express their concerns - "Look it's a free country, so figure it out or if you don't like it here then there's the door. You are free to leave!!!" (Jamaicans migrating to live a better life) Same Government - "Why is this happening??"
Greaf vlog as ever. The stats don't lie. We recently quit the UK and are now living a simple and enriching life in St Catherine. We carry out voluntary work and are now seeking to share our experiences with others wishing to visit this beautiful island. You are an Inspiration and I wish you and your family continued success and happiness x
Irina your documentaries/ presentations are golden! This was the most accurate and informative breakdown I've seen on this topic. I honestly hope your platform and your expertise as a journalist can be utilized by more jamaicans as they try to better understand the socio-economic state of our country. Thank you!! I need a part 2🤗
Great presentation Irie. A part of the challenge is crime, unemployment and then we don't really know how good we have it here. Yes it might be better elsewhere for a number of reasons. However Jamaica is still one of the best places in the world, which is why alot of those who left visit, retire or support relatives or advertise the culture where they are and pass the identity onto their children and grandchildren. Best place to advertise however is heaven. Jesus is coming soon. God bless
The problem is and always has been THE GOVERNMENT! the island itself is beautiful...problem is the government....gun flooded into the country was caused by the government...both sides fighting for position. It will take too long to go on depth....another problem...the government selling out Jamaicas minerals with nothing in return to help the people. The country us backed solely on tourism...its a failing concept...government cause that too...they let foreigners come here with their money, build hotels that barely hire people in Jamaica...most of the profits of tourism goes to who owns it and the corrupt government while not trickling down to the people....IMF!! Who signed off on that? You guest it....the government....IMF does nothing for a country...its a debt they cannot pay back...don't believe me...go ask Greece. With all these things plus no jobs from those coming out of school...the service sector us heavily underpaid while these corrupt politicians line their pockets and give themselves 250% increase...instead of putting money fir better health care...better hospitals etc. I can go on....and if ur view point is one from upper society and not seeing it from the have not that's also a problem.
I really appreciate the research and work you put into all these projects, I must say the documentary style work you do is really amazing. Keep up the good work 5⭐️
People don't understand Diaspora. My wife is from TT and the concept of people having to leave to another country is not common. Having known relatives in almost every country is foreign. People will literally travel and have one soul in the US. As per me, I have a relative everywhere in the Americas. That is because our past relatives left for greater opportunities. As per TT, their economy is really good and people never had to leave.
Your research is next level good, you hit the nail on the head, never really thought about it in that same way. I’m a Jamaican living in Canada and I really couldn’t imagine living somewhere that I would have to learn a new language. I almost guarantee that I couldn’t do it.
I would’ve been set in Jamaica because of family resources but I wouldn’t have been where I’m at now in life if I didn’t move to America. My dad and family still lives in Jamaica because they are already set. Great video!
I'm not even jamaican and I watched this video to the end, Great video essay and I learnt quite a bit, there are many parallels with South Africa where i'm from. Thanks for sharing
IRENE YOU ARE CREDIT TO Jamaica iam glad you are living there you are greatly love by all Jamaican in the Diaspora.may you and your Family continue the enjoy the best the country can offer.thanks for speaking up for Jamaica.❤❤
Awesome video as usual Irina!!! I've always thought there needs to be research done and content produced about this topic. You're results are spot ON!! I just love your love for Jamaica because it reflects my own love for ja!! Thank you thank you thank you for your work. I appreciate it so much keep it up
Very good documentary. Excellent research. Let us not forget that sometimes the search for a so called good life comes with challenges such as illnesses and being overworked.
Excellent video, you made solid points, while i do agree that there are opportunists in Jamaica that needs to be highlighted more, the reality is the vast majority of "Good" ones are located in Kingston and not spread across the island. There is a running joke that if you want to cripple Jamaica, simply Bomb Kingston. As someone in the IT sector the vast majority of IT jobs are in Kingston. IMO Kingston and Portmore are overpopulated hence high traffic in those areas. There are many parishes with a lot of real estate primed for opportunities but no one wants to invest the infrastructure to facilitate new businesses. Montego bay IMO is poorly designed, "the same is true for many other parishes" as such there isn't much that can be done to grow the city, so it has been label as a tourist area while neglecting other areas.
Jamaicans speak with an Irish accent and we have an Irish sense of humor. We laugh at our selves just like the Irish. Its so funny to hear an Irish person and a Jamaican having a conversation.
The first time I found myself in an Irish enclave in NYC, I thought I was dreaming. Wow! That is when I realized how the Jamaican accent was so heavily influenced by the Irish.
@@grace-fc2kf I had an Irish mechanic in the 1980s who hired mainly Jamaican mechanics. He told me they understood him and he understood them. It makes his business runs smoothly. There was no miscommunication
One reality out of the recent COVID event is how valuable our English speaking carribean medical professionals (other areas as well) are to those other countries. So Jamaica, The Bahamas can identify with the pull factor especially from places like USA and UK. Great Docu Irena to a very enlightening theme.
As a Jamaican living in Jamaica, my quality of life is pretty great. A very good job with a very very good salary, savings and investments are on point. The only thing I would do, is maybe leave the coutry for a few months to speed track certain things id like to purchase, or I have a financial plan I would like to include my family in..
This is excellent information. I would not guess that language would be such a huge factor. You asked who would see the opportunities first and try to take advantage of them, Jamaicans, the diaspora or foreigners. My money is on foreigners. It's really hard to get past some locals' worship of 'foreign'. Immigrants to Jamaica have less cultural baggage and are more clear eyed...they tend to see things for what they are, not what they have been brought up to believe. Don't get me started on the diaspora. Many are just not a good fit. They expect Jamaica to be a developed country with all the opportunities of a developing country, but most things should just come easy. SMH.
The diaspora sends in money and expects the leadership at any given time to make things easier for the folks left behind. Jamaica - population 2.8 million approx For the full year 2022, remittance inflows to Jamaica amounted to US$3.44 billion. The performance follows 2021, in which inflows were US$3.45 billion. Minister of Tourism, Jamaica: Jamaica welcomed approximately 3.3 million visitors in 2022 and registered a remarkable US$3.7 billion recovery of earnings compared to the pre-COVID earnings of 2019. Jamaica is also experiencing a rise in summer 2023 air travel bookings by 33% as compared to summer 2022 according to data provided by one of the world’s leading travel data analytics firms, ForwardKeys,” stated Minister Bartlett. “When we took office in 2016, Jamaica was retaining 30 cents of every dollar earned in the industry. We are now retaining 40.8 cents, a 36 per cent increase, which is among the highest in the region." Tourism makes up 6- 10%% of GDP on average using data from 2019 to 2022. Visitors mainly from the USA, Canada, UK. The diaspora thinks there is enough to go round for a population of 2.8 million, but corruption is an issue. e.g. the recent salary increases for politicians that they justified but other civil servants were left to hang dry. Just outside of Kingston you still have ghetto conditions that don't continue to make sense; the areas of housing could be improved. Heavily armed military presence is required to keep things cool in some hoods. Bob Marley sang of the conditions in the 70s and life is still bleak for a lot of folks in that environment. The Jamaican government has to continue to help the down-trodden to lift them up (the elite are living it up), invest in mental health, the police force will have to continue to use modern methods to handle crime, biometrics are going to be needed as time goes on, illegal guns coming in (not sure how that can be handled under the current conditions). You don't find the people of the Bahamas (pop est 407K ) migrating in large numbers. They must be doing something right.
@@ktech2762 The country is very grateful for the $1,500 USD worth of remittances per person per year from the diaspora and hope they continue to send assistance. The diaspora should understand that it takes a lot of money to run a country of Jamaica's size and to be able to adequately deal with the current problems much less act like a developed country. Trying to support a population of 407,000 people like in the Bahamas, is A LOT less expensive than trying to help 2,800,000 Jamaicans. It will take some time for Jamaica to grow out of it's current problems, but many of us are confident we can make it. What would be nice is if more retirees who return to Jamaica try to give back their time and experience to help the country grow rather than merely show off on locals, making people feel left behind. A little humility would go a far way also.
IRIE ,THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR RESEARCH , YOU DID NOT COME TO JAMAICA BY CHOICE ,YOU WERE ORDAINED BY THE HIGHER POWER TO BE THERE TO CARRY OUT THIS WORK , SO WELCOME & ENJOY YOUR LIFE JOURNEY IN PARADISE, 😊❤
Ktech & Feona...excellent points from you both. Fiona, your point about those retired and returning trying to do more to build up the country, is a great point. My sister, who "inadvertently retired" to Jamaica, is doing just that. But most, I think, just want to live without having to do anything; after all, isn't that the point of retirement.... As someone who moved to the States as a Teenager, and have lived here for over 40 Years, my goal is to move back to Jamaica after I retire. And yo be honest, Ibwas looking to just go back and continue to explore the Island, like I have been doing on my regular trips back. I honestly had not thought about doing anything that could help build the country. This video, and both your comments, are making me rethink that. Thank you all
I’m struggling as a software engineer in Jamaica, for comparison my pay is less than a Walmart worker in Florida. I am moving to America to work for a better wage as my current salary can’t even get me loan for a car or house
YOU ARE AN AMAZING WOMAN!!.YOU ARTICULATE THE FACTS AS YOU SEE THEM ...I AM SURE YOU ARE OPENING THE EYES OF JAMAICANS AND THE GOVERNMENT IN JAMAICA 🇯🇲 TO OUR POTENTIALS..I APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT WHEN YOU SPEAK OF JAMAICA YOU REFER TO US AS WE MEANING YOU ALSO INCLUDED.VERY POSITIVE INDEED. ❤
I loved Jamaica too, stayed 3 months in Port Antonio. Was a great experience, I am a white english guy the jamaicans were very friendly and welcoming to me. But to each other they were was a lot arguing and fighting etc. I liked everything about JA, but the food shops [ takeaways] running out of everything by 9pm was mad. But there was always someone doing Jerk chicken, pon da road mun 😄
I am a Jamaican living overseas always love my country no were like home I live in The Netherlands and move to London my heart is home Jamaica thank you for your truth Jamaican Dutch.
The question you asked at the end, really hit me, im a painter who gained success and knowledge from my travels abroad and I’m ready to go back home, and start my empire. I left when I was 18, because of my great grades and high level of academic performance I was encouraged by every adult around me to leave. In a way I’m very glad I left, because I think every Jamaica should travel, so that they are able to see the reality of their country, and to get away from the toxic mindset so many Jamaicans project onto each other and to see our selves for what we are. A powerful group of people on a beautiful island nation. I so grateful that I was able to break out of those toxic cycles, I never in my life thought I would find freedom in my nationality, but I realized over the years that it was my mentality keeping me locked up. Thank you Irene for your videos, I’m often weary when foreigners claim to hav eknowledges on Jamaica, but you have proven countless times that you are learning and your goal is to help us. I’m grateful for you. And sending condolences to you about the situation happening in your home country. 😢
When you said "... But because they don't know about them." I came across a video a week ago and a guy asked the questions, "If Jamaica is so poor and violent, whe are foreigners coming to start businesses and are actually becoming successful?" As someone who is always looking to 'greener pastures ', that hit home. I've started now to look at ways to expandmy small business instead of thinking to shut it down. So much can be done here, but not many know how. And not to play the blame game, but the rich here gatekeep A LOT. If you're not their friend/ family, you can't get a seat at the table... Neither will they tell you how you can even glimpse the table. It's almost as if it's a benefit to few when many leave the island.
Most of who are leaving are poor people looking for opportunities and maybe if the basic necessities were available in Jamaica they would remain...we have little improvement in infrastructure since Independence including consistent problem with light water roads etc... successive governments have failed the people
There are some really good points in the comments that could be considered for more comprehensive review of the situation in Jamaica. The story of the diaspora is not simple but I did agree with some of the points put forward
I enjoyed watching this. It's well researched and well presented. I have learnt a lot. The downside of migration for me is the separation of families. My aunts and uncles went to England and the 60's so we barely knew them. Needless to say the pull of migration is in our blood. There is hardly a place in the world that you won't find a Jamaican.
Thank you for this video. Most persons who leave Jamaica dont want to leave, the pull factors in Jamaica are not easily accessible, the push factors supersede our pull based on perception which may not equal facts based on the numbers, however when the sensitization available locally speaks more about push factors, it affects perception
Looking forward to the "Irish Connection" video. I am not surprised by the high percentage of Jamaicans with Irish connections; it runs in my Family. My Great Grandmother, on my mother's side, is 100% Irish...
Again another great video Irene. So glad I discovered your channel! Your information is non- biased and enlightening to say the least. I just discovered your channel- watched “the shocking truth about foreigners in Jamaica”-and WILL be watching your content a lot more. The more I learn from you about my Jamaica, the more I am inspired to speed up my return. Thanks for teaching me about my homeland. You are (if not already) becoming a JAMAICAN treasure.
So on point..My great grand father went to Panama..my Grandmother worked in Cuba for 5 yrs..my mother siblings were part of the windrush and canadian migration pull. She was to leave and never did..and with the exception on one of my sibling we are all here... have i thought about it yes..but quality of life on Jamaica.. yes even with all the problems is still better here in my opinion
Irene, I discovered you today and have listened to several of your videos today! I am a medical professional and business owner living in one of the southern states of the USA. while listening to you, my brain started ticking and I would love to have an opportunity to connect with you off social media. Anxiously waiting to hear from you. Dia
I would first like to say that i love the piece you just did. It was extremely informative. But i would also like to say that i have just returned to the island after 40yrs aboard. Since returning I now believe that Jamaica is one of the most corrupt countries in the western hemisphere. And because of that corruption it has me thinking of leaving the island for good.
Hi ms irie really enjoying your videos and your brilliance in research and determination of history of our beautiful island also more about the rest of the world in comparison .... awesome i been following you for about 3 years and so impressed at all your videos i am now living in the USA however i would love to meet you to have a sit down when i returns on visit... i would really like to help jamaicans to be great because we are the greatest..., but they don't know
Excellent use of data to support the narrative. Appreciate how well you string together the background and lead into an explanation of your thesis. Awesome stuff, looking forward to more!
Deep research indeed. Such a pleasure watching and learning from your vids, they are always so insightful. I am looking forward to your vid on the Irish diaspora in Jamaica, Sounds intriguing.
Thanks for doing this video. It will always be that way foreigners will always see what the natives do not see. When you have lived your life and are wiser you know what is most important in life. Most people who have savings and want to relax often seek out a tropical area where their money can stretch.
Excellent and informative and educational. Thanks for choosing Jamaica and thanks for your educated and balanced perspectives. I am curious if the migration statistics take into consideration illegal immigrants much like what we see at the US - Mexico border. Also when looking at percentages, which is generally better to understand impact, we still have to look at a Macro level and see that if 1% of a population that is 20x our size migrates vs 3% of ours the actual numbers would eclipse ours by several multiples. Just a quick example JA 3 mil population and if 3% migrate then thats 90k. Mexico 127mil population .25% (1/4 of a percent) migrate thats 317k.
🇮🇪 ☘THE IRISH DIASPORA in Jamaica? 🇯🇲
I'm looking for people from the Irish Diaspora in Jamaica, who can participate in my video about the link between Jamaica and Ireland!
Please contact me with the topic "Irish in Jamaica" here: jamaicawithirie@gmail.com
===
If Jamaica is so great, why are Jamaicans leaving? The so-called 🧠"BRAIN DRAIN" in Jamaica is one of the highest in the world, BUT guess what - the reasons for it are NOT what you think they are! The research I've done is bringing to life some factors that are hardly ever discussed in the media, so I hope you find this video interesting!
The term brain drain as it relates to Jamaica is misleading in that it gives the impression that the migrants are neurosurgeons , astrophysicists or computer scientist . The Jamaican diaspora for most purposes is a proletariat and it is loosely integrated into the host communities. There is a significant criminal stigma attached to this group as well . What is lost in the economic migration debate is the concept of purchasing power parity . A migrant from the Jamaican upper class is not going to be integrated into the upper classes in any of the host countries mentioned and for the most part exist in a strata below the lower middle classes are even part of the host country proletariat. The economic success are also not evident , how many multi millionaires are there in the diaspora mentioned ? How many companies are created and owned by the diaspora ? The diaspora is uniquely a working class heavily subsidised by welfare payments in their host countries . The economic benefits is limited to a second hand car , a mortgage and a credit card for those who are lucky all of which could have been attained with hard work and insight had they chose to be patriotic. The real pull factor of the emigration is low self esteem a lack of imagination and ideas and a continuation of participation in neo colonial reality . The merits of this emigration is going to be sorely tested in the new emerging reality of MAGA whether it’s Trump part 2 or Desantis The narrative of the migrants in Germany after the collapse of the Weimar Republic has not been heeded not that the migrants on the move nowadays would necessarily have the historical knowledge to benefit from this . In todays political environment the term migrant is a euphemism for a global nuisance, in the MAGA jargon they are rapist and criminals and the source of corruption of western civilisation just ask Tucker Carlson or Trump or MTG .
@@PL-ju2uj I see a racist bigot in this comment. Our doctors and nurses are worldwide, not to mention our engineers teachers. You my friend need to educate yourself and stop speaking from your arse.
@@PL-ju2uj hm, very interesting points in this comment and if you have some sources that you can share for this information about the Jamaican diaspora - I would really appreciate. So far, I was only able to find that 1/3 of all Jamaican emigrants have tertiary education, which means that are at least 33% of all people who migrate are not "low skilled" or "working class" people. My personal experience has also showed that a significant number of Jamaicans in the diaspora are VERY successful, whether we're talking about doing high level jobs or running their own business. A few of these Jamaicans are featured on my channel, for example check out the interview with Throp, whose Jamaican father built a large company in NYC or watch the interview with Mark Anthony Hill - a Jamaican artist who lives in the US.. I've also had the chance of meeting the subscribers of this channel who are the members of the Jamaican diaspora - highly successful and intelligent people, engineers, doctors, IT specialists, business owners etc. As for the argument of "not being able to get integrated into the upper classes".. well... the current vice president of the USA, Kamala Harris, is from the Jamaican Diaspora. How much "upper" can you go in the "upper class" than this?
However, I haven't actually done a deep research on this, so if you can share some sources to back up the information you've provided in the comment, I would definitely be interested to study them. Thank you!
@@PL-ju2uj LOL! Since when does brain drain refer to neuroscientists? There a few on the planet and because Jamaica doesn't produce any (that I am aware of) means that we're all proles. Many of us are VERY well educated, by international standards. This is exactly what I meant when I suggested that the diaspora tries to hold Jamaica to ridiculous standards. Anyway, the TRUE Jamaican upper class (not upper middle class that most people see) are rich by world standards. I personally know Jamaicans who are US millionaires. Micheal Lee Chin is a Canadian billionaire. I know it's hard for some members of the diaspora to accept that Jamaicans are doing well, maybe even better than those abroad, but, come on! It is a true reversal of fortunes, but it is what it is.
@@PL-ju2uj excuse me, but trump will never be president, Carlson is a has been, and Desatan will continue to ruin Florida only. Most Jamaicans in the US are NOT on welfare. At least not in Massachusetts or Florida for sure, and I know plenty in NY that aren't. While there are too many MAGA dummies in Florida, they'll never be enough nationwide. Never was and never will. I'm surprised you ventured out from the safe haven of Twitter and truth social or whatever that failing dump is called.
My aunt was working in Jamaica for 30 years of her life and never had anything to her name. She went to the US and in 10 years, she's now retiring with a house in the suburbs in the US, a 7 bedroom mansion in Jamaica, 3 cars and one of her sons now has masters degree, the other is the CEO of a company. That's a success story of just one of my family members. I've seen first hand the countless amount of people in family and friend group who weren't able to achieve anything in Jamaica and went overseas and became successful. I'd love to stay here, but my ambition won't allow it.
@letsgrowandprosper6562 a mortgage only lasts 30 years if you pay the 30 year premium. If you increase your monthly payment, you can drastically reduce the amount of time it takes to complete your payment. I am well educated in economics. Don't do that.
@@uchoobe1876not only that but you can purchase a house outright without any mortgage at all.
@letsgrowandprosper6562bro you’re so dumb it’s hilarious. You know a mortgage can be way shorter than 30, 15 or ten years? Educate yourself and stop acting foolish
@@uchoobe1876 Facts, everyone thinks that you have to take mortgage, I know others who worked and bought their houses cash... Everyone does it different.
As a brit, I'm sorting out a Caribbean passport. There are many opportunities as its "being a big fish in a smaller pond" it's harder to make it in bigger countries
It took an imigrant to see the potentialities of our country. Thank you Irie for illuminating the consciousness of us Jamaicans home and abroad. You are a value added to Jamaica.
You can tell Irene LOVES Jamaica and wants the BEST for the country, one love ❤🇯🇲
I nuh trust har a bumbaclaat. She the face of Jamaica? Her and the one Chinese lady? Gtfoh
Love wish jamaica ? Mother fucker run away from Ukraine she a Ukrainian how all of a sudden them want live amongst people of color when them would not travel in the same train car that color people ride in ?
Look at her very deeply look good
Jamaican we love hugging strangers too quickly
@@netteleecooper3265
What is she doing that is so bad?
This is one of the most educational channels on Jamaica
As a Jamaican living abroad, I have learned something new today about my country. Thank you 🙏🏾
I'm a Jamaican living abroad as well, and like most Jamaicans living abroad I am ferociously proud to be a Jamaican and love my country. I may not like the things that the government is doing and all the opportunities it let's slip away from them to cultivate and build Jamaica as a country but I still love my country. And like many other Jamaicans abroad I would like to return to Jamaica someday but am weary. There is a tremendous opportunity in Jamaica to build it into the most prosperous Caribbean country in the West Indies as this commentator also realizes it has. The Jamaican government believes it has to rely on and compete with these oversees governments for prosperity. Which could not be further from the truth. If it builds on the natural and inherit aspects of the country the shortage of jobs for its inhabitants would significantly decrease, the crime rate would decrease (because a great deal of the criminality that goes on in the country is due to need, a hungry man is a angry man as the saying goes) the need for encouraging and implementing higher education especially in impoverished neighborhoods would skyrocket the growth and stability of the country, make these schools free or very low cost to attend so the students have the ability to learn. Stop believing in and buying into foreign produce, wear, and mentality, fortify the Jamaican, real Jamaican fortitude and culture. There is a reason people from all walks of life come there for our foods, clothes and culture. Build Jamaica by Jamaicans, invest in Jamaicans for Jamaica 🇯🇲 we will not be a world power, our country is only the size of Manhattan in NY but if we build or country up we'll be the shinning star of the Caribbean and West Indies. Skilled Jamaicans abroad want to come home, they want to establish businesses and help build. They need to see more care turned inward to the country and its people so they can help you build it to where its supposed to be. I only speak for myself and a multitude of others I know oversees that share this opinion. It's time for the government to stop focusing on whichever party it is and focus on the people of the country and the country itself and the brain drain will resolve dramatically and Jamaican prosperity and its people local and returnees will flourish.
@@angelafrancis6183the Jamaican... Government is lining their pockets with the money they should be using to build up Jamaica......we have greedy leaders that's Jamaica's problem!!!
Thanks for always exposing Jamaica in a positive way because we’ve been misguided to believe too many negatives about ourselves for over fifty years now. I welcome you as a new Jamaican to the nation of improvisers, brilliant and hard working people. 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲.
Thank you for this video. I've been telling Jamaicans that they don't need to leave. There is actually MORE opportunity in Jamaica to develop a business with less competition than the US. However, most Jamaicans are looking for a JOB. The jobs suck in Jamaica and if they were to change their mindset things would change. I was born in the US, but all of my aunts and uncles were born in Jamaica. Everyone who came to the US did less in their life than the ones who stayed behind and built businesses. All of them who stayed behind own their own homes, while almost all of my uncles and aunts in the US are still renting and waiting to rely on social security to retire. Now ready to retire, realizing they never amounted to anything in the US are now looking to go back to Jamaica and live there off their retirement money. I'm sure that my family's experience is not unique
Wow bredda so accurate foreign is a trap if you don't get a big opportunity in foreign it's hard to make something of yourself especially the last 15yrs
Nailed it David. So true, generally speaking
It’s not a one brush paint all. Jamaica might be better for some while the US might be better for others. I am now living in the US, not because it’s what I desired to do but because life in Jamaica got to the point where you have to know the right people, ignore the corruption, hope and pray you leave home and reach back safe, endure and accept extortion as a way of life if you decide to run any business (from selling sweets to running a big corporation) and I could go on and on. Sure it’s less freedom in the US and you have to work much harder but it’s far easier to navigate your way if you decide to retire in Jamaica. Jamaica is beautiful but we must admit the opportunities are getting less and less to the point where not even a masters degree guarantees you a good paying job to help you get a good foundation to start a business. I love my country to my heart but I am better able to provide for my family living and working here in the US.
@@user-lz5tq4lu4pYou have said exactly what I intended to. I would also like to add that Jamaica is just the way the powers that be want it. Now, there is talk about focusing on STEM, yet mostly call centres are being built as places of employment. Already, uni graduates have to be working in these places that pay so badly. I would wish that everyone could be a business owner because work/a job is simply a form of exploitation, and it's also just not going to happen. Jamaica is great as a tourist destination, so those who can will just have to go abroad and use the money earned there to enjoy life here.
@@prm2335Yep, and add to that, I family members who live in the states and they are much better off than they were while in Jamaica. Including my own parents. So rightly said, it's not always one size fits all
As a jamaican, living in Jamaica I've experienced many of my friends and family migrated. I've been always reluctant to leave, now I'm traveling and experiencing other countries firsthand, Ive decided Jamaica is my home. Thanks to you Irene, another reason to be proud
I’m part of the diaspora. Born in the U.S. to JA parents. Now retired and planning to return to JA in December 2024.
Me too
Me three!!
Me wanna be four!
Same
Me wanna be five and I just come to the us I can't work so hard to pay bills all my money go in bills
The grass is not always greener abroad, it’s greener where you water it
Well said
Excellent statement
I know plenty of Jamaicans that didn't make it in America. Got cought up in crime and eventually deported. Had a divorce before their status was secured, etc
Irene I believe the trend of moving abroad will gradually slow down for a number of reasons including the economies of the big 3 not being as good as they used to be and also Jamaicans getting involved in the digital economy and content creation, farming etc.
yes, the trend is already slowing down, significantly. In fact, I hope we live to see a reverse trend for Jamaica - when more people coming to live in Jamaica than there are leaving.
You're so right. And I believe because so many Jamaicans now get visas with less stress than in the past, more people are seeing that the 'big 3' is really not what they thought. A lot more people are packing their bags and coming home to set up shop.
You are correct. In this so-called 'developed' country, we can hardly afford the unnatural and GMO groceries. Come here for what???
Thank you Irena for being a true Jamaican at heart. You are very analytic and balanced especially when it comes to the affairs of Jamaica.
It takes someone like you, who is not a Jamaican by birth but by adoption to see the good in Jamaica. So many Jamaicans by birth cannot or perhaps refuse to see the positives that the country has to offer. We prefer to run away to other people' s country and help them build theirs instead of staying here and help our country with such great prospect, to become the place where families would want to live, work and do business.
That happens in many countries. Even in the US, people dream of a better quality of life elsewhere. I guess it's human nature to want to improve.
Many Jamaicans are SUFFERING abroad! Being broke and pride prevents them from coming back.
Exactly!!!!!
This is so tru
Those are the illegals.
EXACTLY, foreign life isn’t EASYYYYYY, and only a few actually build up this big life, and most of them that’s having a big life, are working all day everyday and cannot even enjoy the dream life they worked so hard for
Sipping that haterade.
Irie you hit the nail right on its head! The country's brain drain is caused by so many factors and
your analysis is right on.
As a Jamaican living in America, I must say this is one of the most informative videos I’ve seen about Jamaica. I commend all the research and work you’ve put into this. It’s undeniable that Jamaica would not be the Jamaica it is today had it not been for the opportunities that Jamaicans have garnered overseas but highlighting the history and broader dynamics that have driven the relocation of Jamaicans is eye opening and helps to put the country in a better light. Hopefully your work can help lead to a brighter future for Jamaica and Jamaicans. Thanks!
I left because as a child I didn't know the opportunities that were in Jamaica. My mom was poor because she missed alot of her years of education, due to sickness. She would have been unable to pay for a tertiary education for me, so i went to the uk, where at the time, it was free. I returned after that but realised my mom did not know the system in Jamaica to guide me as to how i could make something of myself there, so i went back to the uk, where i knew the system and how to get ahead. My heart has always been in Jamaica but i got married, had kids, so am caught up here, till retirement, then i will return to my beloved island.
In contrast to my life. My cousin who stayed in Jamaica got a scholarship to go to a tertiary institution. She then got a job in her field, which sent her abroad to do her masters. Now she is a manager. She has her house, car and land, so she achieved living out there.
My career was ruined by racism at work. I was blessed to have made the most of it before things got really bad.
My point is that if you use the system in Jamaica, that is created to be used to navigate your way in life, which may i add is the same in the uk, you can make it in Jamaica. Jamaicans are blessed to have nht to help them have a house, over here we don't get that sort of help.
Too often i hear songs and people cursing the system, calling it babylon. Maybe that's why they don't get ahead.
Do you know how much people pay into NHT and retire and still didn't get to own a home from NHT? You have to have certain amount of points to receive a house.
Whether you like it or not the system is Babylon even where your u are .
Who runs the system man like you are God..then it is Babylon
Garbage a d personal baggage...nothing to see here
Love your videos. As a nurse, I would make poverty wages in Jamaica relative to what I make, and can potentially make, in the US. So sometimes it's impractical to move back, even if you would like to, without changing professions. Add to these the complication and expense of acquiring property, a vehicle, unlearning certain behaviors, and offloading debt, and it isn't always an easy, linear transition. Yes, this isn't everyone's story and some people can easily make the transition back home, but there's a story to be told for the many that couldn't even if they wanted.
Yes! It’s a cultural thing! “Betta u guh a farrin”😂😂😂😂
Love your channel Irie, you’ve helped me with so much I never knew living in JA all my life
An excellent, excellent video Irene, as usual. Your research is always thorough and your presentation is always objective NOT subjective meanwhile supporting and trying to build Jamaica, the country.
I almost checked every box. I’m a Jamaican emigrant with an Irish last name and whose father previously worked in Cuba in the 60s and 70s and he eventually emigrated to US via a skilled labor petition. Now my brother emigrated from US to Hong Kong.
Well done exposé. However, only limited professions can land into the field they were in solely based on speaking English. You still have to receive a certification, license, etc. for example physicians have to USMLE. This could mean repeating all the schooling you did, as if you were never educated or trained.
The same reasons I had in mind for people emigrating are the ones you identified.
One issue I have is Jamaica makes it virtually impossible for their emigrants to invest in the country beyond real estate and remittances. I can write a book on how the government has sabotaged an investment (medical) which they acknowledged is well needed for a certain parish. It reinforced that even with pull factors, the government is at the root of the push ones.
Thank you for sharing the info! Yes, you're right of course about needing a certification, license etc, but this is relevant to ALL migrants regardless of their language and again - it's easier to qualify and pass the exams for these certificates/licenses if you're a native English speaker than if you're not.
As for the investments into Jamaica for Jamaican diaspora - very interesting point. Could you share more information on this? What do you mean by sabotaged investment and what else is known? If you can, please share via email: jamaicawithirie@gmail.com, I'd be very interested in investigating this.
Did you leave Ukraine to my country I would ask you di same tin 2 Ukraine need you more than ho Jamaica need we
Irene,you're the real deal. Unbiased,investigative reporting .
I'm pulsing to work with you.
You're work is appreciated
Grateful for this video. I discovered the Irish connection on my own when I heard an Irish man on TV and thought he was an upper-class Jamaican. From then, I knew that our Jamaican accent is Irish. Never knew that it was the legislation of the big three countries that created the migration in the first place. Everything that you said in this video about pull factors can be verified from experience. All my sisters are in the USA. Indeed it is not hard to migrate with this and no language barrier. Can't wait to see your video on opportunities in Jamaica. I think you will be influential on the culture of migrating as time goes by, by putting a dent in the current mindset. I'm really thankful to you.
All respect due coming from a Jamaican living in Jamaica…. Jamaica is a beauty place. Tons of opportunities in Jamaica no make money. However, the culture and mindset is what is tearing down the country. Not everything is the government’s fault. Some jamaicans literally leave because they want to be in a country where they feel like there is a structure and a system in place for everything.
She’s an asset but don’t give away the title of Jamaican so easily she’s a welcome guest. When blacks go to their countries we cannot be accepted as one of them so think about that . Calling them Jamaicans means you are giving your country to them. Aa has happened with Chinese there who are boldly telling descendants in the diaspora now that they are not Jamaicans. You are cooperating in being colonised gradually. Learn from history.
@@sashalawrence4786I am an African lady and I agree 100% with all you have written.
@@sashalawrence4786 I agree and understand what you’re trying to say.
@@sashalawrence4786the original JAMAICAN people are the Taino and Arawaks. Have you not seen our national crest? Have you forgotten our national moto? They even named the Island - Xaymaca.
Stop falsely claiming that Jamaicans are Black and that alone. There are descendants of slave owners, non slave owning whites, Chinese, Syrians and Indians (etc) still living in Jamaica much like the descendants of slaves dem. One is not more Jamaican than the other.
One could perhaps argue that the former might have been here before the latter. Remember, Europeans landed in 1494 and the first slave ship didn't arrive till 1513. Then came the indentured Jews soon after, followed by Indians 1845 and 1854 Chinese - both migrating for economic reasons. In the early 20th century many middle eastern persons fleeing persecution settled in Jamaica. Jamaica is a melting pot of culture.
There are Chinese and Indian families who have been here for nearby 200 years and Jews who have been here for around 500 years (almost as long as the first African slaves). Yet some Jamaicans refuse to accept them as Jamaican.
Thanks for this. Just by improving the infrastructure across the island-Road, water and electricity would go a long way in improving people’s quality of life here. Not everyone migrates for more money. Daily life in some areas of the island is really hard.
@gbb82 I hope that you are aware that poverty exists in America, and many people can't buy food or pay their rent and have to depend on the government for social assistance. The water in many states have contaminants, and there are bad roads too. You might not be aware of this, but the federal minimum wage in several states is $7.25 per hour. I see a lot of infrastructural development being done in Jamaica presently, young people and poor people are getting more loans from NHT to buy houses, places without running water for decades are now getting water, and young people can now get an associate degree for free. Electricity is an issue but Jamaica should be leaning towards solar. I believe within the next 10 years Jamaica will become a developed country.
@@mdl9096 Here we go again with the comparisons. Each time a long standing chronic issue in Jamaica is spoken about, the comparisons, deflections and denials come out of the woodwork. Communities without water for 6 months? Stop gripping is the response, there are poor people in America. Keep “hoping that I’m aware”.
@@gbb82 That's exactly what you were doing.
@@mdl9096 Nice try. No where in my original post did I mention anything about America; you’re the one who came up a long list of issues in American society, as if Jamaicans who have to put up with bad roads, washed out bridges and no water cares one iota about what is happening in America, but that’s the response you want to throw in their faces.
@@gbb82 The dialogue was about Jamaicans leaving for foreign countries, especially America. I live in America so I am talking about what I know.
Very impressive video. My family is Jamaican, but I was born in the US and raised in NY. I learned all types of things in this video I did not know. Keep up the good work! And Slava Ukraine!
Your channel always teaches things us Jamaicans don't even aware of. Thanks again
Yuh nuh normal Irene, another well-researched video. Most of my family is already living overseas, but I stayed and made a good life. The thing is opportunities that fit all criteria do not exist in abundance. What I mean by that is from the lower to upper class there is no balance of wealth that can be tapped into that is at each level of wealth. Imagine my surprise when I went to the US and saw a guy make 500US collecting bottles from the garbage to recycle. There is no focus on things people can do that do not need education, so every Jamaican that lacks education is at risk of being used, and abused by companies and gangs. For example, Jamaica does not invest in the IT sector which is one of the largest sectors internationally with the advent of AI, gaming, etc. We still heavily tax IT parts for import, and companies sell old parts because old parts have no tax. By design, we are crippled by our taxation and other lack of insight. So yes opportunities do exist in Jamaica, but mainly in the middle and upper class. When I say there is no focus I mean islandwide, for right now solar energy should have been a booming market to drive down prices. I digress.
When I left Jamaica in 1991, it wasn’t because of crime and violence or because I was desperately poor, or even because I didn’t have a job with some benefits. Rather, I left because of greater opportunities here in the US.
What is your quality of life in the USA compare to when you lived in Jamaica?
John, yku are a great example of the "PULL Factor" that she mentioned that many overlook, relative to the "PUSH" Factors
As usual, you never fail to educate and enlighten. The truth is, we in the diaspora, are aware of the myriad opportunities present in our beautiful island, and would love, love to come back home. Not faulting you being on this gem only 9 years and growing, when we left….some 10, 20, 30, 40 years, ONE’S SAFETY, on coming home, was NEVER anticipated. Now it overrides or heads every decision. Remains eternally optimistic that conditions will improve.
You can't solve a problem by running away from it-the biggest problem is the mentality of the black people in JA-that's why the PNP & JLP has gotten 80 years to ruin the country.
New subscription.thank you I was born in Jamaica but Live in Toronto and still visit my native land each year
Corruption is another problem, opportunities do exist in this great country but corruption and badmind keeps getting in the way.
Totally agree. I'm from the UK my parents are from Jamaica. I would love to settle permanently there. Even my nephew came on holiday and stated he would live there and he has 3 businesses in the UK! Badmind and corruption is a cancer. Sort that out and you will be shocked how many would come over from the diaspora and pump their money into the economy.
@@audreywright7788 Jamaican people for some reason has a "crab in a barrel" mentality. Even in the big corporations (Politics as well) as soon as one rises the others want to see you fall.
@@audreywright7788 if you have such negative opinions of Jamaica and Jamaicans, why would you want to live there? You state that your parents are Jamaicans, then you paint all Jamaicans with a broad brush, saying we are all bad minded and corrupt, with this attitude, I don't think most Jamaicans would welcome you to live on the island, maybe the UK is where you belong.
@@kidzeus2433 such negative attitude towards Jamaica and Jamaicans, why is that, are you a Jamaican?
@@zuzu-oi5ki Yes, speaking from one's perspective and experience
Love you, Irene, and keep promoting Jamaica. We need to get the government from destroying the cockpit country. This will destroy the under ground water system. If you haven't done a tour please engage in such by starting from Duncan in Trelawny, then Clarks Town, Jackson Town, Alps, Ulster Spring, Albert Town, Stewart Town(where massive bauxite mining is being down), Troy.
Government when Jamaicans express their concerns - "Look it's a free country, so figure it out or if you don't like it here then there's the door. You are free to leave!!!"
(Jamaicans migrating to live a better life)
Same Government - "Why is this happening??"
Greaf vlog as ever. The stats don't lie. We recently quit the UK and are now living a simple and enriching life in St Catherine. We carry out voluntary work and are now seeking to share our experiences with others wishing to visit this beautiful island. You are an Inspiration and I wish you and your family continued success and happiness x
Irina your documentaries/ presentations are golden! This was the most accurate and informative breakdown I've seen on this topic. I honestly hope your platform and your expertise as a journalist can be utilized by more jamaicans as they try to better understand the socio-economic state of our country. Thank you!! I need a part 2🤗
This looks like something you’d watch in school! It was so professional, well laid out & of course, educational & informative. 🤌🏾
Great presentation Irie. A part of the challenge is crime, unemployment and then we don't really know how good we have it here. Yes it might be better elsewhere for a number of reasons. However Jamaica is still one of the best places in the world, which is why alot of those who left visit, retire or support relatives or advertise the culture where they are and pass the identity onto their children and grandchildren.
Best place to advertise however is heaven. Jesus is coming soon.
God bless
The problem is and always has been THE GOVERNMENT! the island itself is beautiful...problem is the government....gun flooded into the country was caused by the government...both sides fighting for position. It will take too long to go on depth....another problem...the government selling out Jamaicas minerals with nothing in return to help the people. The country us backed solely on tourism...its a failing concept...government cause that too...they let foreigners come here with their money, build hotels that barely hire people in Jamaica...most of the profits of tourism goes to who owns it and the corrupt government while not trickling down to the people....IMF!! Who signed off on that? You guest it....the government....IMF does nothing for a country...its a debt they cannot pay back...don't believe me...go ask Greece. With all these things plus no jobs from those coming out of school...the service sector us heavily underpaid while these corrupt politicians line their pockets and give themselves 250% increase...instead of putting money fir better health care...better hospitals etc. I can go on....and if ur view point is one from upper society and not seeing it from the have not that's also a problem.
I really appreciate the research and work you put into all these projects, I must say the documentary style work you do is really amazing. Keep up the good work 5⭐️
People don't understand Diaspora. My wife is from TT and the concept of people having to leave to another country is not common. Having known relatives in almost every country is foreign. People will literally travel and have one soul in the US. As per me, I have a relative everywhere in the Americas.
That is because our past relatives left for greater opportunities. As per TT, their economy is really good and people never had to leave.
Excellent reporting ,
I love my Jamaica i dont care what people say about Jamaica, crime is everywhere,
Your research is next level good, you hit the nail on the head, never really thought about it in that same way. I’m a Jamaican living in Canada and I really couldn’t imagine living somewhere that I would have to learn a new language. I almost guarantee that I couldn’t do it.
😊
Always solid content from this channel....an interesting perspective...solidifying real pride in Jamaica 🇯🇲 and what she offers!! Thank you!
This:- house, car ,land and family we just want a good life
I would’ve been set in Jamaica because of family resources but I wouldn’t have been where I’m at now in life if I didn’t move to America. My dad and family still lives in Jamaica because they are already set. Great video!
Excellent! My sentiment and it echoes my presentation at a small function.
I'm not even jamaican and I watched this video to the end, Great video essay and I learnt quite a bit, there are many parallels with South Africa where i'm from. Thanks for sharing
Irena thank you for the documentary! Well done!
IRENE YOU ARE CREDIT TO Jamaica iam glad you are living there you are greatly love by all Jamaican in the Diaspora.may you and your Family continue the enjoy the best the country can offer.thanks for speaking up for Jamaica.❤❤
You are spot on… you really get the psychology of Jamaicans re migration!
Awesome video as usual Irina!!! I've always thought there needs to be research done and content produced about this topic. You're results are spot ON!! I just love your love for Jamaica because it reflects my own love for ja!! Thank you thank you thank you for your work. I appreciate it so much keep it up
Very good documentary. Excellent research. Let us not forget that sometimes the search for a so called good life comes with challenges such as illnesses and being overworked.
Thanks for doing the research and always being rational
Instead of sensational!
That’s very important to note about Irina - rational over sensational.
Excellent video, you made solid points, while i do agree that there are opportunists in Jamaica that needs to be highlighted more, the reality is the vast majority of "Good" ones are located in Kingston and not spread across the island. There is a running joke that if you want to cripple Jamaica, simply Bomb Kingston. As someone in the IT sector the vast majority of IT jobs are in Kingston. IMO Kingston and Portmore are overpopulated hence high traffic in those areas. There are many parishes with a lot of real estate primed for opportunities but no one wants to invest the infrastructure to facilitate new businesses. Montego bay IMO is poorly designed, "the same is true for many other parishes" as such there isn't much that can be done to grow the city, so it has been label as a tourist area while neglecting other areas.
Hello Irina. Hope you are doing well. Back here in Negril for the 3rd time in 3 years and I don't blame you one bit for relocating here in Jamaica.
🇯🇲Very well done! Thank you!🇯🇲
Jamaicans speak with an Irish accent and we have an Irish sense of humor. We laugh at our selves just like the Irish.
Its so funny to hear an Irish person and a Jamaican having a conversation.
The first time I found myself in an Irish enclave in NYC, I thought I was dreaming. Wow! That is when I realized how the Jamaican accent was so heavily influenced by the Irish.
@@grace-fc2kf I had an Irish mechanic in the 1980s who hired mainly Jamaican mechanics.
He told me they understood him and he understood them. It makes his business runs smoothly. There was no miscommunication
One reality out of the recent COVID event is how valuable our English speaking carribean medical professionals (other areas as well) are to those other countries. So Jamaica, The Bahamas can identify with the pull factor especially from places like USA and UK. Great Docu Irena to a very enlightening theme.
As a Jamaican living in Jamaica, my quality of life is pretty great. A very good job with a very very good salary, savings and investments are on point. The only thing I would do, is maybe leave the coutry for a few months to speed track certain things id like to purchase, or I have a financial plan I would like to include my family in..
This is excellent information. I would not guess that language would be such a huge factor. You asked who would see the opportunities first and try to take advantage of them, Jamaicans, the diaspora or foreigners. My money is on foreigners. It's really hard to get past some locals' worship of 'foreign'. Immigrants to Jamaica have less cultural baggage and are more clear eyed...they tend to see things for what they are, not what they have been brought up to believe. Don't get me started on the diaspora. Many are just not a good fit. They expect Jamaica to be a developed country with all the opportunities of a developing country, but most things should just come easy. SMH.
The diaspora sends in money and expects the leadership at any given time to make things easier for the folks left behind.
Jamaica - population 2.8 million approx
For the full year 2022, remittance inflows to Jamaica amounted to US$3.44 billion.
The performance follows 2021, in which inflows were US$3.45 billion.
Minister of Tourism, Jamaica: Jamaica welcomed approximately 3.3 million visitors in 2022 and registered a remarkable US$3.7 billion recovery of earnings compared to the pre-COVID earnings of 2019. Jamaica is also experiencing a rise in summer 2023 air travel bookings by 33% as compared to summer 2022 according to data provided by one of the world’s leading travel data analytics firms, ForwardKeys,” stated Minister Bartlett.
“When we took office in 2016, Jamaica was retaining 30 cents of every dollar earned in the industry. We are now retaining 40.8 cents, a 36 per cent increase, which is among the highest in the region."
Tourism makes up 6- 10%% of GDP on average using data from 2019 to 2022. Visitors mainly from the USA, Canada, UK.
The diaspora thinks there is enough to go round for a population of 2.8 million, but corruption is an issue. e.g. the recent salary increases for politicians that they justified but other civil servants were left to hang dry.
Just outside of Kingston you still have ghetto conditions that don't continue to make sense; the areas of housing could be improved.
Heavily armed military presence is required to keep things cool in some hoods. Bob Marley sang of the conditions in the 70s and life is still bleak for a lot of folks in that environment.
The Jamaican government has to continue to help the down-trodden to lift them up (the elite are living it up), invest in mental health, the police force will have to continue to use modern methods to handle crime, biometrics are going to be needed as time goes on, illegal guns coming in (not sure how that can be handled under the current conditions).
You don't find the people of the Bahamas (pop est 407K ) migrating in large numbers. They must be doing something right.
@@ktech2762 The country is very grateful for the $1,500 USD worth of remittances per person per year from the diaspora and hope they continue to send assistance. The diaspora should understand that it takes a lot of money to run a country of Jamaica's size and to be able to adequately deal with the current problems much less act like a developed country. Trying to support a population of 407,000 people like in the Bahamas, is A LOT less expensive than trying to help 2,800,000 Jamaicans. It will take some time for Jamaica to grow out of it's current problems, but many of us are confident we can make it. What would be nice is if more retirees who return to Jamaica try to give back their time and experience to help the country grow rather than merely show off on locals, making people feel left behind. A little humility would go a far way also.
IRIE ,THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR RESEARCH , YOU DID NOT COME TO JAMAICA BY CHOICE ,YOU WERE ORDAINED BY THE HIGHER POWER TO BE THERE TO CARRY OUT THIS WORK , SO WELCOME & ENJOY YOUR LIFE JOURNEY IN PARADISE, 😊❤
Ktech & Feona...excellent points from you both. Fiona, your point about those retired and returning trying to do more to build up the country, is a great point. My sister, who "inadvertently retired" to Jamaica, is doing just that. But most, I think, just want to live without having to do anything; after all, isn't that the point of retirement....
As someone who moved to the States as a Teenager, and have lived here for over 40 Years, my goal is to move back to Jamaica after I retire. And yo be honest, Ibwas looking to just go back and continue to explore the Island, like I have been doing on my regular trips back. I honestly had not thought about doing anything that could help build the country. This video, and both your comments, are making me rethink that.
Thank you all
@@trevorsteer7331 Fantastic!!!
I’m struggling as a software engineer in Jamaica, for comparison my pay is less than a Walmart worker in Florida. I am moving to America to work for a better wage as my current salary can’t even get me loan for a car or house
Go. North America is the land of opportunity. You could find opportunities here in Canada too. 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇯🇲 🇯🇲 🇯🇲
what kind of software engineer are you? What's your speciality?
YOU ARE AN AMAZING WOMAN!!.YOU ARTICULATE THE FACTS AS YOU SEE THEM ...I AM SURE YOU ARE OPENING THE EYES OF JAMAICANS AND THE GOVERNMENT IN JAMAICA 🇯🇲 TO OUR POTENTIALS..I APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT WHEN YOU SPEAK OF JAMAICA YOU REFER TO US AS WE MEANING YOU ALSO INCLUDED.VERY POSITIVE INDEED. ❤
I loved Jamaica too, stayed 3 months in Port Antonio. Was a great experience, I am a white english guy the jamaicans were very friendly and welcoming to me. But to each other they were was a lot arguing and fighting etc. I liked everything about JA, but the food shops [ takeaways] running out of everything by 9pm was mad. But there was always someone doing Jerk chicken, pon da road mun 😄
I am a Jamaican living overseas always love my country no were like home I live in The Netherlands and move to London my heart is home Jamaica thank you for your truth Jamaican Dutch.
The question you asked at the end, really hit me, im a painter who gained success and knowledge from my travels abroad and I’m ready to go back home, and start my empire. I left when I was 18, because of my great grades and high level of academic performance I was encouraged by every adult around me to leave.
In a way I’m very glad I left, because I think every Jamaica should travel, so that they are able to see the reality of their country, and to get away from the toxic mindset so many Jamaicans project onto each other and to see our selves for what we are. A powerful group of people on a beautiful island nation.
I so grateful that I was able to break out of those toxic cycles, I never in my life thought I would find freedom in my nationality, but I realized over the years that it was my mentality keeping me locked up.
Thank you Irene for your videos, I’m often weary when foreigners claim to hav eknowledges on Jamaica, but you have proven countless times that you are learning and your goal is to help us. I’m grateful for you.
And sending condolences to you about the situation happening in your home country. 😢
When you said "... But because they don't know about them."
I came across a video a week ago and a guy asked the questions, "If Jamaica is so poor and violent, whe are foreigners coming to start businesses and are actually becoming successful?" As someone who is always looking to 'greener pastures ', that hit home. I've started now to look at ways to expandmy small business instead of thinking to shut it down. So much can be done here, but not many know how. And not to play the blame game, but the rich here gatekeep A LOT. If you're not their friend/ family, you can't get a seat at the table... Neither will they tell you how you can even glimpse the table. It's almost as if it's a benefit to few when many leave the island.
Exactly
Most of who are leaving are poor people looking for opportunities and maybe if the basic necessities were available in Jamaica they would remain...we have little improvement in infrastructure since Independence including consistent problem with light water roads etc... successive governments have failed the people
There are some really good points in the comments that could be considered for more comprehensive review of the situation in Jamaica. The story of the diaspora is not simple but I did agree with some of the points put forward
I enjoyed watching this. It's well researched and well presented. I have learnt a lot. The downside of migration for me is the separation of families. My aunts and uncles went to England and the 60's so we barely knew them. Needless to say the pull of migration is in our blood. There is hardly a place in the world that you won't find a Jamaican.
This is truly astounding. Never thought so deeply about some of these factors. Thank you for exposing such imperative information. One Love.
Thank you for this video. Most persons who leave Jamaica dont want to leave, the pull factors in Jamaica are not easily accessible, the push factors supersede our pull based on perception which may not equal facts based on the numbers, however when the sensitization available locally speaks more about push factors, it affects perception
Easier to run.......than to build.
A lot of time people have good jobs, leave Jamaica, don’t have a good standard of life oversea , too embarrass to return to Jamaica.
Always so insightful. Thank you for doing this work.
Looking forward to the "Irish Connection" video. I am not surprised by the high percentage of Jamaicans with Irish connections; it runs in my Family. My Great Grandmother, on my mother's side, is 100% Irish...
Again another great video Irene. So glad I discovered your channel! Your information is non- biased and enlightening to say the least. I just discovered your channel- watched “the shocking truth about foreigners in Jamaica”-and WILL be watching your content a lot more. The more I learn from you about my Jamaica, the more I am inspired to speed up my return. Thanks for teaching me about my homeland. You are (if not already) becoming a JAMAICAN treasure.
I truly appreciate your well detailed and informed information. More blessings going forward.
So on point..My great grand father went to Panama..my Grandmother worked in Cuba for 5 yrs..my mother siblings were part of the windrush and canadian migration pull. She was to leave and never did..and with the exception on one of my sibling we are all here... have i thought about it yes..but quality of life on Jamaica.. yes even with all the problems is still better here in my opinion
💯
16:15 Jamaica can do more. Someone told me that Education Ministry held up teachers' pay recently. For what, I don't know.
Sadly, now its hard to move back to jamaica with the cost of homes +land
Super cool content... very educational food for thought 🤔
This is absolutely fantastic! Educational & Inspirational- I reside in Belize 🇧🇿, Central America- Originally from YAAD! #lovesign #Maranatha
This is amazing work!
Irene, I discovered you today and have listened to several of your videos today! I am a medical professional and business owner living in one of the southern states of the USA. while listening to you, my brain started ticking and I would love to have an opportunity to connect with you off social media. Anxiously waiting to hear from you. Dia
I would first like to say that i love the piece you just did. It was extremely informative. But i would also like to say that i have just returned to the island after 40yrs aboard. Since returning I now believe that Jamaica is one of the most corrupt countries in the western hemisphere. And because of that corruption it has me thinking of leaving the island for good.
Irena you are an asset to Jamaica's economy.
Keep doing your videos. You do the research to prove your fact.
One love baby girl.
Hi ms irie really enjoying your videos and your brilliance in research and determination of history of our beautiful island also more about the rest of the world in comparison .... awesome i been following you for about 3 years and so impressed at all your videos i am now living in the USA however i would love to meet you to have a sit down when i returns on visit... i would really like to help jamaicans to be great because we are the greatest..., but they don't know
Thanks alot for the information ❤
Another AMAZING video...❤❤❤
Excellent use of data to support the narrative. Appreciate how well you string together the background and lead into an explanation of your thesis. Awesome stuff, looking forward to more!
Thank you very very educational
Love videos Irina so proud of your work AND YOUR PASSION FOR JAMAICA…from NJ
Thanks for educating us on these topics. Jamaicans love to travel and seek opportunities . Thanks Irena.
Irene you are a very intelligent woman and a deep thinker.
The quality and detail to your presentation and research are exceptional! Continued Blessing and success Irene
Deep research indeed. Such a pleasure watching and learning from your vids, they are always so insightful. I am looking forward to your vid on the Irish diaspora in Jamaica, Sounds intriguing.
Thanks for doing this video. It will always be that way foreigners will always see what the natives do not see. When you have lived your life and are wiser you know what is most important in life. Most people who have savings and want to relax often seek out a tropical area where their money can stretch.
Excellent and informative and educational. Thanks for choosing Jamaica and thanks for your educated and balanced perspectives. I am curious if the migration statistics take into consideration illegal immigrants much like what we see at the US - Mexico border. Also when looking at percentages, which is generally better to understand impact, we still have to look at a Macro level and see that if 1% of a population that is 20x our size migrates vs 3% of ours the actual numbers would eclipse ours by several multiples. Just a quick example JA 3 mil population and if 3% migrate then thats 90k. Mexico 127mil population .25% (1/4 of a percent) migrate thats 317k.
Very informative ❤🎉
As ever an excellent video. I am Jamaican born and planning to return at least in the short term and your videos encourage me on this path.
Thank you, Irina. This was very informative and well research.
I need to come back to visit my birth country. Shalom/Peace and much blessings to my Israelite black people in Jamaica 🇯🇲