Remarks by Ambassador N. Nick Perry at the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF) Scholarship Awards Ce

Remarks by Ambassador N. Nick Perry at the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF) Scholarship Awards Ceremony 2024

Kingston,
Jamaica

November 19, 2024

Good evening.

I see before me a gathering of happy and proud faces, because after years of commitment you are about to reap some of the rewards of your perseverance and hard work.

I am delighted to celebrate with you, the outstanding achievements of the students receiving scholarships from the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation.

Today’s ceremony not only recognizes your efforts and dedication, but also highlights the ACMF’s commitment to empowering the next generation of maritime professionals.

The maritime industry is vital not only to Jamaica but surely the entire Caribbean region, serving as a critical channel for trade, commerce, and assuring economic growth. As one of the most essential pillars of the global economy, shipping accounts for 90% of the total world trade. Therefore, by investing in education and training of future maritime professionals, we are equipping talented young people with the skills needed to excel in this dynamic field, contributing to both national and regional development.

The United States is proud to support the efforts of the ACMF through partnerships that strengthen the maritime sector and foster shared growth. U.S. Embassy in Kingston is pleased to host and show support for this event as we believe that by empowering these remarkable students, we are investing in the future stability, security, and prosperity of the Caribbean.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Geneive Brown Metzger, and the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation for its dedicated fundraising efforts throughout the United States and the Diaspora. Fundraising for worthy charitable purposes, pursued by organizations like the ACMF, is often time consuming and challenging. It takes strong personal commitment and a certain amount of skill and drive to successfully convince potential donors to hand over their money to worthy causes like providing scholarships. I am very proud of my Jamerican friends and colleagues, who continue to advance education and development in Jamaica.

To the scholarship recipients, your remarkable achievement unquestionably demonstrates your excellent commitment to your studies. Today we celebrate not only what you have already accomplished, but also the bright futures that lie ahead for you.

As I close, I extend to you all heartiest congratulations, and look forward to seeing how your talents and skills will shape the future of the maritime industry in Jamaica, and the wider Caribbean region, a region that I like to call ‘America’s front yard’.

Thank you.