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ON OUR LAST ISSUE This last issue was filled with articles that were engaging. Importantly, they provided practical and useful information. I found the advice given on ‘Ways to Start Investing with Little Money’ very useful. Shasha’s story was quite inspirational. Keep the issues coming! – Kimara Garvey, 29

Living Well

Inspirational Thought: Always Say Thanks!

The pictures made all the difference for me. They were eyecatching for the most part. I love that it seems all focused on me - providing me with financial investment and even phone tips that I found useful. The section about things you should know before borrowing was insightful. – D. Mattis, 47

During the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Jamaican 110m hurdler, Hansle Parchment, posted a heart-warming video on his Instagram page showing him tracking down a Good Samaritan to say thanks for helping him in a big way.

I appreciate the versatility and diversity of the articles - something for everybody. I have relatives who suffer with sickle cell so it is good to know that progress is being made [regarding treatment]. Continue to produce good stories. – Winston Duncan, 64

In the video that went viral, Hansle related that he mistakenly took a bus that was heading to the aquatic venue. On realising his error, he reached out to Tiana Parchment, who was working as a volunteer, to ask for taxi fare so he could get to the intended track and field stadium in time for warm up exercise. Through her act of kindness, Hansle was able to participate in the race which he won; thus stamping his name in Olympic history.

EDITORIAL With just a little more than 28 per cent of the eligible population fully immunised up to November 2021, Jamaica is among the bottom rung in respect of its COVID-19 vaccination rate in Latin America and the Caribbean. This is unfortunate, given that the country now has adequate doses of vaccines, so much that thousands of vials have been dumped on not one, but two occasions; and several community vaccination efforts struggle to attract a few people. We cannot clamour for normalcy and refuse to take responsibility for our actions. Our abdication of our duty to protect ourselves and loved ones puts our desire to ‘live well’ in jeopardy, because the longer we take to get immunised, the more opportunities we provide the virus to mutate and derail our personal and national objectives. At the point of penning this editorial, Jamaica’s COVID-19 infection rate had fallen below five per cent, and deaths, confirmed cases and hospitalisations had declined dramatically from the chaotic scenes of oxygen and bed shortages in hospitals in August and September. However, those scenes could easily return, if we fail to take our personal responsibilities seriously by not getting immunised. The attendant restrictions will continue to impact the price of basic goods and services and livelihoods. After 18 months, our children could be forced to learn from home again, robbing them of opportunities to socialise and develop. And, we will continue to erase knowledge and rich history, as the disease takes our elderly. Let us bring back good old Jamaican life to our communities. Make the decision to get immunised today. It starts with you! Tanya Pringle

Executive Corporate Communications The Jamaica National Group

Gareth Manning

Senior Communication Specialist Corporate Communications The Jamaica National Group

Karen Oliver

Communication Specialist Corporate Communications The Jamaica National Group

The JN Living Well magazine is a production of the Corporate Communications department of The Jamaica National Group. You may access this issue and past issues online at www.jngroup.com/living. Please send your feedback and suggestions to corporatecommunications@jngroup.com

This touching story underscores that:

Taking time to acknowledge others who contributed to our success is a gesture of respect. It shows that we appreciate the person’s time, effort and resources that were extended to us.

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Saying thanks acknowledges that our benefactor had a choice and did not have to do what he or she did for us.

Saying thanks helps us to keep grounded as it reminds us that ‘no man is an island’ and that somewhere, sometime, somehow, we will need someone’s help. Because of this reality, we should be ready to help when called upon. As we reflect on this beautiful experience, let us ponder this question: Who is it that I need to say thanks to? “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” ~ Marcel Prous

ways

to make virtual celebrations just as

MEANINGFUL can create the invitation, another can be the DJ and another could act as host or coordinate activities.

2 Claudine Allen, Member Ombudsman The Jamaica National Group If this pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that we really miss each other! What better way to ease this than getting together for a huge par… wait! That still isn’t possible right now for many people! No worries. Here are five ways to make your virtual gettogether very meaningful:

Give each participant a role in planning What builds camaraderie better than teamwork? Assign each participant a clear role that plays to their strengths. One person

Have a themed event Increase the fun by incorporating a theme! This can be a great way to spice up any virtual holiday party. Themes foster camaraderie and a sense of togetherness – even when apart. Try an ugly Christmas sweater, fancy hat or do a Christmas murder mystery party. This leads me to my next tip.

Create a prize pool Every great party should have prizes! And if someone doesn’t agree, then they’re just not invited to our fabulous party! Create a fund to purchase a prize for one or two participants.

Have an agenda, but go with the flow Confusing? So is this pandemic! But while planning for your virtual get-together, it is important to have structured proceedings, but don’t be unwilling to go with the flow. This will be virtual, technical issues may come up. Remember to keep it fun for everyone.

Send a mystery box ahead Bring the physical into the virtual experience by delivering a mystery box to participants ahead of the event. It is fun for the group to open the box together on screen, and discover all the goodies inside. The box may contain presents, sweet treats, or props to be used throughout the event. Be sure to encourage your guests to contain their curiosity and wait to open the box during the event. In all you do, stay positive and grateful. There is so much going on around us. Let us remember to be grateful for the persons we have in the session and focus on all that you accomplished, even while apart. Everyone’s presence is a present!

Your JN Member Ombudsman is the customer champion for The Jamaica National Group. She advocates for issues that preserve mutuality and unleash the potential of JN members. The Ombudsman promotes the adoption of business practices that ensure delightful service and adds value to membership. The Ombudsman also facilitates dialogue with JN members about matters that impact their relationship with member companies of The Jamaica National Group and investigates complaints in order to achieve impartial resolution. Visit www.jngroup.com/member-ombudsman for more information.

Front-of-Package Labels Important in

Cardiovascular Diseases Leighton Williams, Communication Officer The Jamaica National Group

It is a truth universally acknowledged that what we eat helps to determine our health. Therefore, front-of-package labelling (FOPL) has become a discussion point, when it comes to processed foods, because of its importance in helping consumers make informed choices about what they consume and how it can impact their health. “The Heart Foundation of Jamaica and its partners are currently advocating for the implementation of the ‘high in black octagonal front of package warning label’,” explained Barbara McGaw, Project Manager, Global Health Advocacy Project, The Heart Foundation of Jamaica. “We are advocating for this black octagon based on the local study done by PAHO in December 2020, which showed the black octagon to be superior to other FOPL in assisting consumers to make healthier choices. This model was also chosen by the Caribbean Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) as the option for the regional standard.” Ms McGaw explained that front-of-package labels are symbols and rating systems placed on the front of processed food packages, or foods that have been changed from their natural state. “This type of label can help us make the best choices for our bodies, reducing our risk of diseases such as: high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer,” Ms McGaw pointed out. She explained that with this information, persons are better able to control their purchases of foods, which are high in fat, salt, and sugar. “It can also be used as a guide for persons on special diets, such as persons living with diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Front-of-package labels will also encourage our industries to reformulate products, thereby improving the nutritional content of the products they are providing. It is important to note that not all products would carry FOPL; only those that are above thresholds set by PAHO for nutrients that are harmful to health in excess.” At present, nutrition labelling on the back of food and beverage packages is not mandatory for products in Jamaica. Ms McGaw noted that with the dietary habits of Jamaicans changing over the years, there has been an increased consumption of foods high in fat, salt, and sugar.

“This is also attributed to the increased presence of prepackaged processed foods, which are pervasively marketed at attractive prices. A poor diet is one of the leading causes of NCDs, especially cardiovascular disease globally,” she explained. Ms McGaw added that to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and cardiovascular diseases, consumers need to be armed with information to make the right choice. Hugh Reid, General Manager, JN Life Insurance Company, explained that studies conducted by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, indicate that medical costs from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes alone, over the next 15 years, could be as high as $29.8 billion. “We should avoid ultra-processed foods that are high in fat, salts and sugar. Therefore, reading and understanding food labels are important. Most importantly, no matter how prepared you are, we always remind Jamaicans that prevention is always better than the cure. Therefore, a healthy lifestyle is the best choice,” he said. Meanwhile, The Heart Foundation of Jamaica is reminding Jamaicans to follow these simple steps to remain healthy. “Get regular screening to know your four health numbers: blood sugar, blood pressure, blood lipids and BMI. Follow a healthy diet and practise to read food labels. Eat adequate amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables; lean protein, and whole grains for dietary fiber. Drink more water, fewer sugary drinks, and less alcohol. Try not to skip meals; eat breakfast lunch and dinner every day. Control portion size and calorie intake, stay physically active and get at least 30 minutes of physical activity for five days per week. It can help you lose extra pounds and ease stress,” Ms McGaw affirmed.

Barbara McGaw, Project Manager

Global Health Advocacy Project The Heart Foundation of Jamaica

Ricardo Forbes: Driven to Succeed

Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist The Jamaica National Group

The life story of Ricardo Forbes, a former Guardsman security guard, now a Branch Sales Representative at the JN Bank Portmore Pines branch, underscores that with sheer determination, the trajectory of one’s life can take a 180-degree turn. Driven to achieve further success, he has been teaching himself all three units of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Level One and will commence an Associate degree in Business Administration in January 2022. Ricardo, who sometimes acts as Operations Support Officer at the JN Bank Portmore Pines branch and at the JN MoneyShop Spanish Town Road, related how his life started to spiral downhill after his mother migrated to the United States of America when he was about 11 years old. Subsequently, he lost focus on his school work which caused him to achieve only one of five Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects at Mona High School.

“I would often ask the staff members to explain the various banking procedures. As a result, I was able to answer queries from customers, and I began to like working at the bank,” he related. In an effort to improve his chances of transitioning to work with the organisation, Ricardo taught himself Principles of Accounts in one year, earning a grade two in the CSEC examination. His dream was realised in 2010 when he filled the vacant position of Member Service Representative at the JNBS Portmore Pines branch. Troy Bygrave, Business Relationship and Sales Manager, JN Bank Portmore Pines and Morant Bay branches, described Ricardo as an all-rounder who is dependable, competent and willing. “It’s very commendable where he’s starting from. He is self-motivated. I give him high scores for customer service delivery, sales performance and technical skills. His customers are always satisfied.” Similarly, Denise Subaran, Team Lead – Restructure, JN Bank, with whom he works closely, emphasised that Ricardo is a valuable member of her team who always goes the extra mile.

“My examination results were a wakeup call. I started to regret not taking my school work seriously,” the Portmore resident pointed out.

“He’s a top performer, a great team player and a great person to our members when it comes on to customer service.”

With a seemingly bleak future ahead, Ricardo found sufficient courage to make a fresh start. He enrolled at the Portmore Community College to re-sit four CSEC subjects, two of which he passed in the first year and the other two, the following year.

She also pointed out that he regularly checks in with each member of the team to find out if they are OK. Ricardo is the fiancé of Alicia Campbell, a teacher at the Cockburn Gardens Primary and Junior High School, and father of two boys, aged 11 and 13.

Armed with the requisite qualification, he approached the Jamaica Constabulary Force for employment. He passed the entrance test and interview, however, several months later, he was advised that his file was incomplete.

His long-term dream is to be transferred to the Auditing Department at JN Bank. “I like to be challenged with complicated tasks. It helps me to think outside the box,” he said.

“They explained that because of the length of time that had elapsed, I would need to repeat the application process, but I wasn’t prepared to do that,” he said. It was then that he turned his attention to Guardsman Security in 2000, and gained employment as a guard. Two years later, he was assigned to the New Kingston branch of the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), now JN Bank.

Ricardo Forbes

“

He’s a top performer, a great team player and a great person to our members when it comes on to customer service.”

an Income

during Retirement Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist The Jamaica National Group

“Many persons are opting to find creative means, or a side job, to earn an income during retirement; and this is commendable because the extra income can supplement their pension from their retirement scheme, or from the National Insurance Scheme,” says Othneil Blagrove, Senior Manager for Sales, JN Life Insurance Company. “The pension each month is fixed, therefore, when living expenses continue to rise, this can pose a financial challenge for retirees to get by,” he explained. Mr Blagrove further pointed out that an additional source of income can help retirees to take care of sudden unexpected expenses, such as a medical emergency, to undertake retirement plans, or a vacation abroad. The funds can also be used to start a small business. “In addition to earning an income, retirees who continue to work will benefit from the social connection with colleagues, a need which tends to be more meaningful during retirement years,” he underscored. Three Ways Retirees Can Supplement Their Income During Retirement:

Consultancy or Freelance Services Retirees who were experts in their career and are quite knowledgeable about a subject area, may consider extending their service. A good place to begin is your former place of employment, where superiors would be familiar with your skills. Alternately, you may: • Approach competitors in your former industry for employment • Conduct workshops • Be a presenter at a workshop or seminar • Consider being a life coach to help someone to achieve success in their career If you were a specialist teacher or lecturer, you could provide private tutoring. If you were a retired nurse, you may consider working in a nursing home or providing private care to an elderly person or someone who is incapacitated.

Online talent market places, such as Fiverr and Upwork, are excellent opportunities for freelancers worldwide. One can search for work on these sites and bid for jobs.

Caregiving Services Looking after a child can be rewarding. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in children remaining at home and having classes online. This is an excellent opportunity to provide caregiving services on behalf of parents, who go to work and need someone to supervise their children, in their absence. Where face-to-face classes are taking place, you can provide pick up services, as some parents may be reluctant to have their children taking public transportation, for safety reasons. Alternatively, you may consider providing caregiving services to a sick or an aged person.

Home as a Source of Income Perhaps your children have all grown up and left home, which means that you have a room or two which you could possibly rent. Not only will you be earning an income, but you could also benefit from the companionship of the person sharing your home. Operating an Airbnb is a lucrative alternative, as more income can easily be earned from renting extra rooms in your home for a few days, rather than renting for the month. Moreover, you may rent a room as a temporary storage space for families with furniture and equipment, who are in transition, relocating, or who need these items for safe keeping, as a result of moving into a smaller home. An unoccupied garage also can be used to park a vehicle for someone who will be away for an extended period. You could also earn from fruit trees in your yard. Retirement can be a rewarding phase in a person’s life. Those persons who are able to earn an extra income during retirement often find it fulfilling, not only because of the financial security that it provides, but also the sense of purpose that is achieved.

Dealing with the

Loss of Loved Ones Due to

COVID-19 Sabriena Simpson, Communication Officer The Jamaica National Group

contracted COVID-19. Her father succumbed to the virus less than a week after being hospitalised.

Losing two of her closest family members to COVID-19 just a few months apart put Haley Clarke-Scotland’s life into a tailspin when her sister, Brendalee Campbell and her father, Hugh Clarke, passed away from the dreaded disease this year.

His death took a toll on Mrs Clarke-Scotland which affected her ability to sleep. She related that the support of her co-workers and journaling her feelings in an article titled, My Journey with COVID, helped her to cope. The members of her family have been communicating more frequently, sharing songs and encouraging each other as part of their coping mechanism.

“When my sister got ill in early March, the doctor told her that she had a bad flu and was placed on antibiotics. However, on March 15, she collapsed at home and they rushed her off to Hargreaves Hospital in Mandeville. Mrs Clarke-Scotland said her 60 year-old sister was subsequently transferred to the Percy Junor Hospital for treatment. “The problem with COVID is that even though you visit you can’t see your relatives, so you have to be dependent on persons passing on information telling you whether or not they were recovering,” the Human Resource Officer pointed out. She added that the information was never conclusive. Three days after being hospitalised, her sister passed away from COVID-19-related complications. “I cried a lot. I also had to make the farewell video and write the tribute and it was really an emotional and difficult journey,” Mrs Clarke-Scotland said. Five months later, her 94 year-old father, along with four other family members,

The emotional pain of losing a loved one to the COVID-19 pandemic is also relatable to Samantha Ferguson, whose mother passed away in May of this year. She disclosed that with that close bond now permanently severed, she has resorted to praying more frequently and communicating with siblings and family members as a means of coping. Chelsi Ricketts, a PhD candidate and former Associate Clinical Psychologist, says the pain and sadness that is associated with the loss of a loved one, is a natural and justified response, hence it is necessary to acknowledge those feelings. “It is only through expressing your feelings that you can truly start to heal. Talk to someone who you can trust about how you are feeling and if you think that it is needed and will be helpful for you, seek professional help from a trained mental health provider. You may consider writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in order to process them. You may also consider engaging in activities or hobbies that help to bring about feelings of joy. Engage in activities that you consider to be self-care, as they can be beneficial for your mental and physical health,” she advised. Up to more than 91,000 Jamaicans have contracted COVID-19 with over 2000, mostly the elderly, succumbing to the disease.

Sapphire Spinel, an international spy with the agency, United, animated by Gabrielle Watts. The character fights systems of oppression around the world.

Fem Force!

Young women creating new movements in local animation Alex Pearson, former Intern The Jamaica National Group

s part of the thrust to eventually position Jamaica as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of the Caribbean, one of the branches of the technology industry that has been receiving some attention by the Andrew Holness administration is the country’s talent in animation. The burgeoning industry has been getting increased consideration recently, with the announcement of a scholarship out of the Office of the Prime Minister for 2-D and 3-D animators earlier this year; and there have been calls from the World Bank for the country to take advantage of the worldwide US$270 billion industry, which has been growing some four per cent annually. “The opportunities are huge because Jamaica is an incredibly creative and talented nation,” Country Director for Latin America and Caribbean Region at the World Bank, Tasheen Sayed, , was quoted by Loop News in April at the launch of the Kingston Animation Conference and Film Festival. Although Jamaica does not yet enjoy a full-fledged industry, similar to the rest of the world, the mushrooming discipline has been attracting more men than women. Gabrielle Watts

Jenille Brown

However, women are emerging in Jamaica, says Jenille Brown, 2D Animator and Character Designer at ListenMi Caribbean, and they are occupying posts as decision makers, especially among bodies representing the growing discipline. Ms Brown, who is the creator of the ‘pot cova’ gifs, which were popular among Jamaicans during the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, notes, “there is tremendous benefit to achieving parity in the discipline, as women bring a different perspective to the stories told and the very process of animation.” Ms Brown, who is also the organiser of the Dream Dust Expo –

“

Another work by Gabrielle Watts challenging ideas about women and girls.

The opportunities are huge because Jamaica is an incredibly creative and talented nation.”

a local exhibition for animators – says with more women in the industry the stories told through animation can be fuller and richer.

needs right now. We need work that resonates with people on a different level and something that is not so typical.” To strengthen parity, Ms Brown is encouraging more young women to get qualified, but she doesn’t think they should stop there.

Upcoming animator and visual storyteller, Gabrielle Watts, is confident that Jamaica can be a world leader in the field, pointing out that many young women aren’t only interested in animation, but more are getting qualified in local training institutions. Miss Watts, who recently graduated from the Caribbean School of Media and Communication (CARIMAC) at The University of the West Indies with a Fine Arts degree in Animation, is now working in the industry. She believes one of the Jenille Brown poses with the child factors driving women are the stories heroine she created, ‘Kam Kam,’ who they have to tell. goes on space adventures at night “I think that girls and women would bring a different perspective to the industry. We have a different point of view, which of course means new stories to tell, which is good!” the awardee in the 2021 Kingston Emerging Animated Content Competition opines.

instead of going to bed. The character is included on the murals wrapping the the walls of the Public Broadcasting Corporation complex in Half-Way Tree, St. Andrew

“When I see work from female directors, storytellers, [and] animators, a woman’s point of view centres [on] empathy, it centres [on] creativity; and I think that is what storytelling

“Post your work on social media, in order to create an online presence; in addition to participating in online challenges and creating a space in some sort of online community,” the DreamDust Expo founder advises. She is also encouraging young women to follow other local and international creatives and animators online, and take notes from what they produce. She is also encouraging them to get involved with professional groups, as well as to seek opportunities that will allow them to play a part in shaping Jamaica’s still emerging industry. She points to the Jamaican Animation Nation Network (JANN) as a great starting point for youngsters. She is urging young women to also form connections to support each other and to identify mentors in the discipline.

“The thing is you need people who are both at your level, and people who are more developed than you, who can actively critique your work; somebody who relates to where you are right now,” Ms Brown advises.

Privacy and Security Concerns - Messaging Apps Garfield Rodriquez, Cybersecurity Analyst The Jamaica National Group

The creation of the computer, internet, and smartphone have enhanced how we communicate in real time. The first email message was sent in 1971, SMS message 1992, then came along online fora such as MSN, Yahoo & AOL Messenger, Myspace, iMessage (Apple), Blackberry Messenger (BBM), Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, WeChat, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. The availability of other messaging apps is forever evolving, along with its varying technologies. It is estimated that there are currently 3.09 billion mobile phone users who access messaging apps, and more than four billion email users worldwide. Consumers and users of these applications, now more than ever, are gravely concerned about the privacy and security of their data being held by the different messaging applications. Personal identifiable information is being collected such as first name, last name, email address, phone numbers etc. to register with these messaging applications and, in some cases, credit card numbers and PayPal accounts to conduct transactions in applications such as WeChat. WhatsApp, the most widely used messaging app in the world, recently issued renewed privacy policies, which caused a massive backlash, as there is a great fear that the platform would be integrated with the parent platform, Facebook Messenger, thereby disabling the end-to-end message encryption. As a result, this led to the emergence of other messaging apps, such as Telegram and Signal etc. Users of these technologies have the ultimate responsibility of researching before enrolling on these platforms and paying close attention to the implementation procedures, policies and governance such as: (1) Where is my data kept? (2) Will my location services require to be turned on? (3) Does the application need access to my files/photos? (4) Will my data be utilised by any third party? (5) Is two factor authentication available (password + biometric combination (fingerprint/retina scan)? (6) Does the messaging application provide end-to-end encryption, so there is no possibility of my messages being intercepted and read? (7) From an organisational perspective, the data being

sent in these messaging apps no longer belong to the organisation. Leakage of corporate data is another attack vector for threat actors to infiltrate a corporate network if being used on a corporate- issued device. Individual users and organisations should consider these questions as a benchmark to ultimately guide their decision in using whichever mode of messaging applications. Technology and other types of companies that handle your data, are being scrutinised heavily and have to adhere to strict policies around data protection and privacy, with the recent General Data Protection Regulation, known in short as GDPR, which protects the personal identifiable information for European citizens. Jamaica has also tabled in legislation the Data Protection Act 2020, which companies will have to comply with, for the protection of consumer data. If these policies are violated, significant financial fines will be imposed. The protection of data and privacy is the gravest concern for most users of these messaging applications. Avoid peer pressure and don’t simply download or use an application just because it is popular. It doesn’t mean it is necessarily safe or secure. Be wise in your selection and do your research.

Disconnect to Connect:

Caring for your Kadeem Rodgers (@thestyleredeemer) Fashion Stylist, Journalist

The old adage ‘once a man, twice a child’ may seem farfetched. ‘Once a man, forever a child’ rings truer, since a child’s spirit never really grows old. Whether that bit of soul is acknowledged or not is irrelevant. The point is, there’s a juvenile spirit abiding in all of us. The juvenile spirit that makes you curious…leaves you indecisive...keeps you charming...and, on occasion, clueless. That’s it! Some adults cling to parts of their childhood that trigger, for example, a joyous reaction to receiving gifts, or one that evokes rare bouts of compassion and empathy. While others cling to darker versions of themselves, others possess a kinder, gentler being that grounds them, and reminds them to stay innocent. The reasons are plentiful. You, however, should try to nurture your inner child by making a roster of things to do to care for him/her. Many people may believe they are alone when they could just fall in love with themselves and their inner child. Your roster should include spa dates, play dates with close friends – must include ‘vino’ and a large living room, and possibly a visit to the park, among other recreational activities. Also, take a minute to sit and connect with your inner child then list the things that would spark a certain ‘joie de vivre’ inside him/her, and you’re halfway there. Dr Diana Raab, a Research Psychologist and author, believes “getting in touch with your inner child can help foster wellbeing and bring a lightness to life.” Here are some tips to help you disconnect to connect with your inner child:

Keep an open mind. Starting with an open mind is integral; you want to be vulnerable, and open to trying new things.

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Speak kindly to yourself. Start with affirmations. Remind your inner child that he/she is worthy, loved, and good enough.

Give yourself the attention you deserve. Treat yourself to a date, be it a night at the movies, drinks by the bar, people-watching at your chill spot, or even going for walks alone.

Cuddle yourself. Love and hug yourself in much the same way a toddler doles out free hugs. Take care of yourself. Give more to yourself. Hold yourself accountable but be kind to yourself. Put yourself first. It may sound selfish, but a major part of understanding who you are and what you like/ dislike starts with selfishness. Disconnect from your cliques, friends, and family members for as long as it takes then reconnect so they don’t miss you too much.

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Revisit childhood memories. Spend time with children, pick their brains and see how they tick – this could help you understand the areas that you may be slacking in. Spend time doing the things you used to enjoy. Speak to a therapist. This step is key as it would help you disconnect from your adult self and reconnect with your inner child.

Young JN Scholar is a Entrepreneur Karen Oliver, Communication Specialist The Jamaica National Group Jameilia Wright is only 11 years old, but she is already a budding entrepreneur with an acute business sense. A first form student at the Hampton School in St. Elizabeth, Jameilia related how she used a US$100 prize she received from the Westmoreland Treat 54 Foundation, to start a poultry-rearing business along with her mother almost two years ago. She was awarded the prize for topping her grade five class while she was a student at the Sir Clifford Campbell Primary School in the parish. “My mom was building a chicken coop, but it was unfinished. I bought 100 chickens and put in my chicken nursery and since [then] I have over 400 chickens,” she disclosed. “I knew that both my parents were not financially capable to aid with my educational journey, so I wanted to accumulate more money by using the money I had,” she explained. In grade six, when she topped the class again, she was awarded another US$100 from the same Foundation. In the true spirit of entrepreneurship, she used the funds to purchase more chickens. Jameilia pointed out that the reason for her business success was her persistence in not giving up when she faced a setback. “Sometimes it was hard when no one was buying chickens at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she related, adding that, “At the same time, the cost of the feed and medicine kept increasing.” “You have to keep trying, because when you just start a business it is not going to be successful immediately. You need to persist and believe in God,” was her advice to new entrepreneurs. Beyond being a successful entrepreneur, Jameilia is also an exceptional academic performer. She emerged the JN Foundation Scholar for Westmoreland, based on her outstanding performance in this year’s Primary Exit Profile

Jameilia Wright, 2021 JN Scholar for Westmoreland

(PEP). She was one of 37 children who were awarded a five-year scholarship by the JN Foundation, and was officially recognised as a JN Scholar at the virtual JN Scholarship Reception, on September 26. Having achieved 100 per cent in Mental Ability in the PEP, she earned a place at the Hampton School, the institution of her first choice. She was also the valedictorian at her school leaving ceremony at Sir Clifford Campbell Primary School and was recognised as the ‘Top Girl’ in academics for 2021. Her mother, Val Marie Jackson, a single parent of five, pointed out that Jameilia was diligent in searching for a scholarship to help offset her school expenses. “I’m so happy to know that she had applied for the scholarship. She searched for all the scholarships which she could apply for,” Miss Jackson disclosed, adding that, “Jameilia stayed up late many nights, browsing the internet for scholarships.” “She was determined to help herself go to Hampton and nothing was going to stop her,” her mother said. Jameila’s scholarship application was one of approximately 550 applications received through the JN Foundation’s website for this year’s award. As part of the eligibility for the scholarship, the students and/or their parents must be JN members, customers, or clients of The Jamaica National Group for at least one year. “A good education is the only way out of poverty,” Jameilia asserted.

Sex after

Karen Carpenter PhD, CST, PGCHE Psychologist/Clinical Sexologist/Research Consultant

passes away. That opens a whole other door, the one to being able to self-pleasure. There are a large number of studies that show libido will improve in older men when testosterone levels are improved. This may mean a visit to your doctor to ask if a testosterone shot is for you. Embracing your changing body is important to sexual wellbeing in every stage of life.

How is Sex after 60 Perceived?

Help is also available after 60

In 2010, the University of Chicago conducted a study that showed 40 per cent of men aged 75 to 85 years old in the United States of America remain sexually active, and 52 per cent of older women 60 and over, report having regular “good quality” sex. Only 17 per cent of women reported staying sexually active, which is less than half of what men reported. This is despite the fact that sex in later decades of life is reported as more fulfilling for persons in long-term relationships. This could be because partners who have been together over a long time are more comfortable with each other; are now free to engage at their leisure as the children have left home and people are generally living longer and healthier. Sex is also perceived as risky, but there is no validity that suggests that it is too strenuous and should be avoided due to risk such as heart attack or stroke. Studies actually have shown that older people are sexier in attitude and performance than they have been credited for. What about mental health though?

Viagra and similar drugs have flooded the market over the last 10 years, giving men a sustained burst of libido well into their twilight years. Women still don’t have a comparable drug to call their own, but lubricants come in all types and flavours now. And, condoms are not just for contraceptives any more, they can add stimulation and pleasure. Sometimes seniors who rediscover their sexuality forget an important rule: Good sex is safe sex. If you are sleeping with a new partner, use condoms for each sex act. This includes oral sex. It also includes the use of shared sex toys. Consider alternatives to intercourse until you and your partner each receive a clean bill of health. You won’t age out of sex Even though your definition of “good” sex may change, you can get past physical problems. You may need more time to orgasm but you also have more time to enjoy sex. This is a different adventure, but you can still keep the spark alive and well. Finally, never forget the benefits of exercise on improving your vitality. Happy loving!

Studies have concluded that sex among older adults reduces high blood pressure. A study out of Britain found that individuals who engaged in sexual activity, two or more times a week, have reduced risk of heart attack. Men who ejaculate 21 or more times per month, have a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Bortz, a specialist in internal medicine says: “We should as a moral responsibility continue to be sexually active.” That is a new spin on morality. So what does Dr Bortz mean? He is speaking to the fact that human beings are designed for sexual activity, it is a normal part of our life-long health and, therefore, we shouldn’t give up on it, just because we are getting older, since the mind and body benefit from it. So, what are the concerns for people over 60? Men are mostly concerned about erections. For women, the concern is opportunity, when will both partners be in the mood and able to have sexual relations. That is a matter of timing. Women over 60 should reject the idea that their sex lives must end if their husband

Dr Karen Carpenter is a Florida board-certified Clinical Sexologist and licensed Psychologist, based in Jamaica. She is author of ‘Love & Sex: The Basics’ available on amazon.com. Email Dr Carpenter at: loveandsexja@gmail.com or send questions at www.drkarencarpenter.com

Join Dr Carpenter for ‘The Sexual Revolution Continues’ Tuesdays at 9 pm

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