Social Impact with Emma » women’s rights : A Jamaica Gleaner Blog

Civil Society Collaborates to Influence Health Policy for Mothers and Infants

November 10th, 2019

As I entered the quiet, cozy Alhambra Inn recently, I stopped to look at the beautiful koi carp swirling in the water near the entrance. I was prepared to be inspired, not only by these majestic fish. Why? Because I was attending a meeting organized by the Women’s Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC). I know […]

Women Who Inspire Us: An Inter-Generational Discussion

April 3rd, 2017

“Challenge yourself! Be bold. Challenge yourself! But you don’t have to win…” So said Shaquani McKenzie, the moderator of a discussion I participated in on the evening of International Women’s Day. Shaquani, a member of the Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network (JYAN) – has a wide, sunny smile. She welcomed the group of young people – […]

Emancipated Women, Independent Youth

August 11th, 2015

The Emancipation and Independence holidays are now retreating in our rear view mirrors, as we look forward to getting through what is left of our dusty, drought-ridden summer. I have the feeling always that the approach to both these holidays – the thinking behind them – gets recycled in a slightly different form, every year. […]

Dissecting Development: What Does It Mean for Jamaica?

May 27th, 2015

I have had an interesting Labour Day weekend. A series of wide-ranging conversations has set me thinking, so forgive me if I do a little philosophizing this week. It all began with this question: “What does development mean to Jamaicans?” If we threw this word out to the average Jamaican, what would first come to mind? […]