This episode is also available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music!!

It was not that long ago that the metaverse was the buzzword of the day. The metaverse—a fusion of virtual reality, augmented reality, and the internet—has been envisaged as a transformative frontier, reshaping the way we interact, work, and experience the digital world. It promises to be a seamless, immersive space where digital and physical realities blur, creating opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and social connectivity. However, over the past few years, it has fallen into obscurity and has been overtaken in the public’s mind by generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Having said this, the metaverse is not dead. It is very much alive, but the pace of development has definitely slowed. However, there is now an opportunity and time to develop the necessary guardrails and policies for the metaverse, unlike what is currently happening with AI, where we are still debating the frameworks that should be established after the proverbial horse has left the stable.

Founded in 2016 in Jamaica, Youth Can Do I.T. (YCDI) is a youth empowerment organisation that is geared towards equipping and empowering youth with the right skills and tools needed to turn their dreams into reality. In 2023, YCDI, in partnership with Jesus College at the University of Oxford launched Project Amplify to collaboratively design ethical guidelines and spaces for the metaverse. The proposed guidelines were finalised earlier this year and are available to help inform policymakers, government agencies, organisations and individuals about their design processes for their own digital spaces and the metaverse.

Introducing our guests

Cherika Wilson has spent most of her career working in youth development/youth-supporting roles. A passion for equitable access to education brought her to the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD) where she currently serves as the Project Manager. She oversees the implementation of CSOD’s digital and data skills training programmes, and all CSOD’s strategic partnerships. Cherika is also the Head of People Operations at Youth Can Do I.T. (YCDI), managing the organisation’s programmes and operations. Prior to returning to Jamaica, Cherika worked in the nonprofit and public sectors in New York City across several functional roles including, strategic partnerships, programme management, development, and data reporting and analysis.

A proud alumna of Campion College in Jamaica, Cherika holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Public Administration in Non-profit Administration from Baruch College, and a Master of Business Administration in Managerial Analytics from Mercy College.

Christopher Derrell is an award-winning software developer who in his role, manages UX, architecture, and development to create practical and aesthetic websites. These have spanned across multiple industries including banking, hotels and engineering, from Barbados to Rome, while being recognized globally as leaders in technological innovation.

Chris has over 10 years of experience in Software Development and holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Computer Science and Economics from the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona. He is a Christian, who leads a team of web developers at Adtelligent, and also co-leads Youth Can Do IT, a social enterprise; teaching youth aged 7—25 the power of data and code, working first on their mindset to inspire content creation, not just content consumers.

Chris is a proponent of Extended Reality (Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality) and using technology as a tool for increasing productivity.

Joel Lawson is a high school student and one of the youths involved in Project Amplify and participated in the ethical guidelines design process.

Insights into our conversation

To most people, the metaverse is not currently high in the social consciousness, so it might seem odd to be highlighting it as we did in 2022. However, based on our experience with Generative AI, and the concerns that have been raised for guardrails to be established, and even the call for a six-month moratorium on AI development, we know what can happen when we are not prepared for a technology that has launched. Currently, we still do not have appropriate policies in place, although it is in the public domain for over two years!

With the likely timeline of fully bringing the metaverse to life some years away, as was discussed with Joel, Cherika and Chris, we now have the time to deeply explore, debate and properly establish the policies and ethics that guide our use of the metaverse, and even our own other spaces. For example, questions we could ask regarding our own websites or online platforms are: are you using animation or a voice-activated reader to help users actually review the terms and conditions of your platform? And are accessibility features, such as language translation and tools to translate audio into sign language, embedded into your platform?

Below are some of the questions posed to Joel, Cherika and Chris during our conversation.

1. Chris, start us off. Briefly remind folk what the metaverse is, and what has been going on in the metaverse – because I am sure many of us thought it was dead.
2. As an emerging construct, and based on the experience with AI, there are likely to be several ethical concerns surrounding the metaverse. What are some of the more troublesome issues, and what are some that are likely to be more nuanced?
3. How did Project Amplify, the collaboration between Youth Can Do IT and Jesus College (Oxford), come about?
4. Joel, how did you get involved in Project Amplify and Youth Can Do IT?
5. What were the objectives of the research?
6. Joel, why was it important for you to participate in developing ethical guidelines for the Metaverse?
7. Cherika, what were the key findings of the research?
8. Joel, is there any theme you believe is the most important of the five areas addressed?
9. Having produced these ethical guidelines, what happens next?

We would love to hear your thoughts!

Do leave us a comment either here beneath this article, or on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or via Twitter, @ICTPulse.

Also, if you or a member of your network is interested in joining us for an episode, do get in touch.

Let’s make it happen!

Select links

Below are links to some of the organisations and resources that either were mentioned during the episode, or otherwise, might be useful:

• Youth Can Do IT
• Cherika Wilson
• Christopher Derrell
• Project Amplify, Co-designing Metaverse Ethics: Perspectives of Jamaican Youth: Final Report
• Project Amplify, Co-designing Metaverse Ethics: Perspectives of Jamaican Youth: Ethical Guidelines 
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 327: Ramblings. Would you let AI make all of your decisions?
• People magazine article, Teen, 14, Dies by Suicide After Falling in ‘Love’ with AI Chatbot. Now His Mom Is Suing
• The Guardian article, A girl was allegedly raped in the metaverse. Is this the beginning of a dark new future?
• Daily Mail article, I was ‘gang raped’ in the metaverse -the trauma was similar to a real-world assault

Images credit:  C Derrell; C Wilson; Riki32 (Pixabay);  pikisuperstar (Freepik); Pete Linforth (Pixabay)

Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 11 November 2024

Data Management Authority, UNDP conduct digital readiness assessment

Guyana – The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), through its facilitating agency, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA),in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Guyana, launched the national Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA) that will inform decision-makers on policy design and guide the mapping of Guyana’s digital transformation path, a joint OPM/UNDP release has announced… more

Guyana election agency fears biometric voter verification system cost

Guyana – The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is showing signs of reluctance to adopt the much-solicited biometric voter verification technology after a feasibility study highlighted several potential challenges such a move will face, including the high cost of implementation… more

Amber Connect offers latest tech for owners to protect their cars

Jamaica – With the recent spike in motor vehicle thefts — over $600 million worth of cars reportedly stolen in St Andrew North alone since January — Amber Connect is launching an initiative to help Jamaican drivers seamlessly upgrade from outdated 2G trackers to advanced 4G, AI-powered solutions… more

Tuesday, 12 November 2024

RCIPS warns about text and social media scams

Cayman Islands – Police said two specific scams are currently targeting people in the Cayman Islands… more

Where is the app and where is the cash grant?

Guyana – Dear Editor,  I loved the cash grant. Psst: didn’t collect, so the past tense (loved) has to do with the announcement made with a clatter of chariots, fanfare of bugles, and then… more

Vandals warned to leave CCTV cameras alone

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – The department responsible for the monitoring and maintenance of the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras erected across the island has expressed concern about vandalism of the technology… more

Wednesday, 13 November 2024

Over 100 CCTV cameras to be installed across Tortola

British Virgin Islands – The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has announced plans to have over 100 CCTV cameras operational across Tortola by the end of 2024 to enhance security… more

GTT gets 25% waiver from M&CC on outstanding rates

Guyana – The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has granted a 25% waiver on outstanding rates owed by the former Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), now rebranded as ONE Communications… more

Blockchain-based “Verified & True” platform set to boost transparency in Jamaica’s agriculture

Jamaica – The Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority says it has taken the necessary steps to position Jamaica’s agricultural commodities within the realm of cutting-edge technology… more

Thursday, 14 November 2024

Bahamas must “catch up” to global cybersecurity standards, says expert

Bahamas – The Bahamas must “catch up” to global cybersecurity practices, according to a cybersecurity expert, who noted that many Bahamian businesses have been reactive rather than proactive in addressing cyber threats… more

BISX eyeing smaller exchange and crowdfunding service

Bahamas – The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) is preparing to launch a junior stock market called the SAM (small alternative market), to accommodate businesses too small to list on the main exchange, along with crowdfunding for even smaller businesses to raise capital, BISX CEO Keith Davies explained yesterday… more

Central Bank eyes faster payments

Bahamas – The Central Bank of The Bahamas revealed yesterday at BICA’s Accountants Week it is in the process of implementing a new initiative referred to as the Fast Payments System which Deputy Governor Derek Rolle said will come into action in the next few years… more

Container port CEO highlights “painful” cyber attack as call for stronger cybersecurity culture

Bahamas – The Nassau Container Port’s top executive acknowledged yesterday that the port underwent a “painful exercise” in dealing with a cybersecurity attack in April, noting that while the losses were minimal, it underscored the need for a culture of cybersecurity awareness… more

Failed cyber attack on Central Bank’s website sparks heightened threat awareness

Bahamas – An IT executive at the Central Bank said that a recent unsuccessful attack on the regulator’s website had heightened awareness of a potentially greater ‘imminent threat’ and spurred enhanced defensive measures… more

Getting into the global gig economy

Caribbean – In today’s fast-changing world, the gig economy has become a powerful force, reshaping how we work and earn… more

Tech Beach Retreat secures Google, Massy Group sponsorships for 2024 conference in Jamaica

Jamaica – Organisers of Tech Beach Retreat have signed global tech giant Google and regional conglomerate Massy Group as lead sponsors for its conference in Jamaica scheduled for December 4-6 in Montego Bay… more

Friday, 15 November 2024

USF ramps up efforts to bridge Jamaica’s digital divide

Jamaica – Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Universal Service Fund, Andrew McRae, says his organisation remains steadfast in bridging Jamaica’s digital divide and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens… more

Saturday, 16 November 2024

Tapping into biometrics: Mastercard reimagines online payments without passwords

Caribbean – Mastercard has announced its vision to transform online shopping by 2030 creating a future where physical card numbers are no longer needed to make purchases and where passwords or one-time codes are obsolete… more

Sunday, 17 November 2024

High cost of internet service: the main “barrier” to disconnection in the country’s homes

Dominican Republic – Although internet usehas increased in recent years, in some provinces of the Dominican Republic, households still have very limited access to this service, according to a report published by the National Statistics Office (ONE) on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)… more

Biometrics are not permitted by the constitution or any other law

Guyana – The three members of the Elections Commission representing the Opposition recently issued a joint letter calling for the implementation of biometrics by way of electronic fingerprint technology, to identify voters at elections… more

300 persons to begin receiving NIDS cards Monday

Jamaica – Three hundred persons who were enrolled in the National Identification System (NIDS) pilot project will begin receiving their cards on Monday, November 18… more

Scotiabank hosts digital payments expo, partners with MasterCard to strengthen business relations in Montego Bay 

Scotiabank – Scotiabank has partnered with MasterCard and other stakeholders to engage tourism sector business operators in Montego Bay… more

Support growing for Caribbean mental health support app 

Trinidad and Tobago – UPLIFT, a peer-to-peer mental health app, is now one year old and its creators are looking forward to continuing to provide a safe space for adults across the Caribbean… more

Images credit: Bernard Goldbach (flickr); Wikipedia; Guyana Chronicle; Wikipedia; Wikpedia;

The social media landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Although some of these changes have been driven by technological advancements, changes in user behaviour and expectations continue to reshape the platforms and how we use them.

Further, social media is big business. According to Statista, social media advertising spending is projected to reach USD 219.8 billion in 2024 and USD 255.8 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.86%.

It is thus crucial for businesses, organisations and individuals to keep up with the latest trends. Below are the top five social media trends likely to dominate in 2025.

1. The rise of AI-powered social media

Although artificial intelligence (AI) has been all the rage since the start of 2023 and has been permeating all areas of business, it is expected that in 2025, it will be more deeply integrated and leveraged in the marketing space. Currently, AI has been used primarily for targeted advertising and content recommendations, but going forward and regarding social media, it will be the force behind:

• Personalised experiences, such as curating highly personalised content feeds so that users see what they’re most interested in.
• Enhanced user experience, such as through AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to provide instant customer support and answer queries efficiently.
• Automated content creation tools, by generating high-quality images, videos, and text.

2. Continued short-form video dominance

Short-form video content is not new. It was made popular on TikTok, and all of the major platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, etc.) have adopted some version of it. However, in 2025, the format will become even more dominant to attract and keep a younger audience and essentially reshaping how people consume content.

To that end, brands will also be leveraging short-form videos to tell engaging stories and connect more deeply with their audience. Further, expect to see innovative video formats from users, such as vertical videos, short-form documentaries, and interactive stories.

3. The power of social commerce

The deeper integration of shopping and social media has been occurring for some time but has been limited in scope. However, social media platforms will be incorporating more shopping features, allowing users to discover and purchase products directly, resulting in a more seamless shopping experience.

Further, influencer marketing in the social media space will not be waning in 2025. Instead, it is projected that influencers will continue to shape consumer behaviour, promoting products and services to their followers, and if the social commerce effect can come fully to fruition, live shopping events and seamless sales could result.

4. Increased community-driven platforms

Although online communities have always existed, in the social media space, they seemed to be fragmented and less organised. However, as users try to find more ways to enjoy community online and not just entertainment, growth in niche communities is anticipated. In other words, users will seek out and join online communities based on shared interests and passions.

In a similar vein but capitalising on the desire for community, brands are also expected to jump on this bandwagon by encouraging user-generated content, discussions and co-creation. Consumer or user involvement will thus become even more integral in shaping brand reputation and driving engagement.

5. Greater privacy and data security concerns

Finally, although data privacy has been a growing concern over the past several years, it is anticipated to become an even greater consideration in the coming years. Worldwide, stricter data privacy regulations are coming into force, which will affect how organisations collect and use user data.

Furthermore, organisations will need to be transparent about their data practices to build trust with their audience. At the same time, users are becoming more aware of their rights and the need to manage their data more prudently. Hence, as their digital literacy improves, users are likely to become more cautious about sharing personal information online and adopt privacy-focused settings.

These trends are likely to be evident in 2025. By being proactive and staying ahead, organisations and businesses can maximize their social media presence and achieve their digital marketing goals.

Image credit:  Freepik

In our latest conversation with Albert Daniels, the Senior Manager for Stakeholder Engagement for the Caribbean, we discuss some of the latest developments in the ICANN Space. Some of the areas covered include: what exactly is ICANN and why it is important; the Registration Data Request Service and the implications for law enforcement; the new generic Top-Level Domain (gTLD) Program; and how Caribbean countries could benefit from this and other upcoming initiatives.

This episode is also available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music!!

The internet has become indispensable to everyday life. When it works well, it fades into the background and allows us to access information and resources we otherwise could not do and to be more efficient and effective when engaging in a broad range of work and personal activities. However, when the internet is not working – and I am looking at you, Flow(!) – the delicate equilibrium of our lives tends to come crashing down. Everything becomes considerably more difficult, and frustrations are high.

It can thus seem ironic that although the internet has become a crucial resource in our lives, we do not seem to be paying much attention to ongoing and emerging internet-related issues that could have an impact on how we use it. Further, many internet-related forums have adopted a multi-stakeholder approach in which internet end users can participate in the policy development process, effectively shaping how the internet evolves.

In this podcast episode, we revisit one such organisation, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and discuss some of its current areas of focus and important programmes that are coming down the pipe.

Introducing our guest

Albert Daniels joined ICANN in 2013. He is located in Saint Lucia and is a member of ICANN’s Global Stakeholder Engagement team for Latin America and the Caribbean. As the ICANN Senior Manager for Stakeholder Engagement for the Caribbean, Albert leads engagement in 32 Caribbean Territories and also leads specialised projects in the ICANN Latin American and Caribbean Regional Strategy. Albert’s responsibilities include developing and executing the organisation’s strategic and tactical objectives in the Caribbean region.

Prior to working at ICANN, Albert served as an Information Systems and Information Security Auditor and ICT Consultant at Creative Technology Solutions Limited (CTSL). He also held the position of Regional IT Manager at KPMG Eastern Caribbean, and Accounts Supervisor/IT Trainer/Group IT Director at the CHL Group in Saint Lucia. Albert served on several national Boards in Saint Lucia, and has broad internet and technology-related experience, having personally introduced the Internet to Saint Lucia in 1993. He has attended many ICANN meetings; and has been involved in the ICANN Fellowship program as one of the first fellows in 2007 and also as a fellowship mentor. Albert holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Technology and also specialises in Project Management at the University of Cambridge; he also holds several professional and industry certifications. Albert is fluent in English and conversant in Spanish, French, Norwegian and French Creole.

Insights into our conversation

An important takeaway from this conversation with Albert is the fact that there is never a dull moment in Internet Governance (IG). The internet is constantly evolving, and to some degree, we, the end users, are driving some of the changes that have been occurring.

Further, and in the Caribbean context, the limited collaboration and forging of relationships by our countries in other areas appears to also be evident in the IG space. For example, the Registration Data Request Service is a new facility ICANN is piloting to support law enforcement agencies worldwide, which, according to Albert, has had limited traction in the region. It thus suggests that when a cybercrime has been committed, or a network breach has occurred, Caribbean law enforcement may not be aware of resources they could access and the procedures to be followed to secure information that could further their investigations.

Below are key topics discussed during this interview.

1. What ICANN is and why it is important.
2. The Registration Data Request Service, which is currently being piloted by ICANN.
3. A Domain Name System Observatory for the Caribbean region.
4. The avenues available that could help more stakeholders participate in ICANN events and activities and participate more regularly.
5. The New generic Top-Level Domain (gTLD) Program, which is being launched this month, November 2024. 
6. The Next Round Applicant Support Program
7. How the Caribbean countries (or the region as a whole) could benefit from the new gTLD Program
8. New upcoming events or activities people should have on their radar.

We would love to hear your thoughts!

Do leave us a comment either here beneath this article, or on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or via Twitter, @ICTPulse.

Also, if you or a member of your network is interested in joining us for an episode, do get in touch.

Let’s make it happen!

Select links

Below are links to some of the organisations and resources that either were mentioned during the episode, or otherwise, might be useful:

• Albert Daniels
• Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
• ICANN Public Meetings
• ICANN Public Comment
• ICANN81 Annual General Meeting (Istanbul, Turkey, 9—14 November 2024) 
• ICANN Acronyms and Terms
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 021: Navigating ICANN and its relevance to the Caribbean, with Albert Daniels
• ICT Pulse article, Snapshot on the cybersecurity measures that have been implemented in the Caribbean region in 2024
• LAC-i Roadshow Caribbean Edition (Jamaica, 28—30 November 2024)
• ICANN82 Seattle Community Forum (Seattle, USA, 8—13 March 2025)

Images credit:  ICANN;  rawpixel.com (Freepik); Freepik; TheDigitalArtist (Pixabay)

Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Monday, 4 November 2024

Ministry of Information Communication Technologies issues alert on WhatsApp group hack

Antigua and Barbuda – The Ministry of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding a sophisticated WhatsApp scam targeting group chat members… more

“Difficult Conversations – The End of Liberty” by Grenville Phillips II

Barbados – Barbados’ Cybercrime Bill should make those guilty of conventional cybercrimes like child pornography liable for serious penalties… more

Zorina Andall is AI-generated voice on Emvoice

Grenada – Grenadian-born singer Zorina Andall has officially transcended time and space… more

The cash grant app could have been developed while determining the procedures for its quantity and distribution

Guyana – Dear Editor,  Just when I thought that SN’s equivalent of “60 Minutes”, its closely followed cost-of-living series, would have to be wrapped in cottonwool and mothballed, the PPP Government came and gave it an extension on life… more

BizTech 2024: Shaping the future of technology in Jamaica

Jamaica – The Jamaica Technology & Digital Alliance (JTDA) is announcing its flagship event, BizTech 2024, scheduled for November 20-21 at the Summit Hotel in Kingston… more

Close cybersecurity loopholes, says insurer

Jamaica – Cybercrime is projected to cost the world $9.5 trillion USD in 2024. Global cybercrime damage costs further are expected to grow by 15% per year over the next two years, reaching $10.5 trillion USD annually by 2025, according to Forbes’ projections… more

Particular Presence Technologies readies ‘AI to ROI’ conference

Jamaica – Technology & Software development and Amazon Web Services (AWS) Advanced partner, Particular Presence Technologies, readies to unveil AI to ROI, an interactive conference centred on leveraging AI tools to maximise profitability and enhance customer satisfaction for businesses… more

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

BVIEC’s online payment platform restored after cyber attack

British Virgin Islands – The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has announced that its online payment system is fully restored nearly three months after a cyberattack disrupted operations… more

Communications outage resolved ahead of storm

Cayman Islands – OfReg said that all communications services were restored at around 2:30am on Tuesday after an issue that mainly impacted Flow and Digicel’s business customers… more

Wednesday, 6 November 2024

Cybersecurity expert warns of malware embedded in QR codes

Bahamas – A cybersecurity expert said that there is a new threat emerging with QR codes that carry ransomware and other viruses… more

Thursday, 7 November 2024

Going bankless: How will cashless system help the unbanked

Trinidad and Tobago – For many countries, going cashless is the way of the future, where all people can be included in the benefits of the technology and infrastructure… more

Friday, 8 November 2024

Amazon free delivery move

Bahamas – Bahamian retailers, courier companies and freight forwarders were yesterday put on alert over a “seismic” competitive threat after Amazon confirmed it is offering ‘free international delivery’ to this nation… more

Bahamian business must rise to Amazon challenge

Bahamas – Many do not realise that the retail landscape in The Bahamas is on the verge of a seismic shift. Amazon has quietly introduced ‘Free International Delivery’ on orders of $49 or more – including to The Bahamas… more

Tech expert warns of ‘sextortion’ dangers facing BVI’s children

British Virgin Islands – A leading tech expert has sounded the alarm on the increasing risks of ‘sextortion’ targeting young people in the Virgin Islands, a growing issue that has psychological and sociological consequences… more

Jamaica’s Auditors Incorporating Artificial Intelligence To Identify Trends.

Jamaica – Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Fayval Williams, says auditors will be using more artificial intelligence (AI) tools to carry out their duties… more

Saturday, 9 November 2024

Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association introduces mobile app

Belize – On Wednesday, November 6th, the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA) launched its mobile app during an event in Belize City… more

Guyana rolls out digital readiness survey to address gaps

Guyana – Uncovering gaps in Guyana’s digital capacity is the focus of a recently-launched collaborative National Digital Readiness (DRA) Assessment survey aimed at advancing the country’s digital agenda… more

Smart classroom launched at Mahdia Primary

Guyana – The Ministry of Education recently commissioned a state-of-the-art Smart Class-room at Mahdia Primary School, equipped with cutting-edge technology aimed at transforming the learning experience for pupils… more

Sunday, 10 November 2024

How to stay safe from cyberscams

Caribbean – Cybersecurity Awareness Month was just celebrated in October, the perfect time to learn how to protect yourself from scams… more

Flow Credits customer after prolonged billing dispute

Jamaica – Dear Claudienne, I am asking you kindly to assist me with resolving this Flow problem. I went to the Manor Park Flow office in St Andrew during the month of November last year to open a basic package for $8,500 per month… more

Combating cyberthreats

Trinidad and Tobago – CARICOM Central Bank governors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Group as a means of combating cyberthreats across the region’s central banks… more

Image credits: Freepik; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Flow (Facebook)

The digital nomad lifestyle is often relegated to daydreams: something you wish you could do but seems complicated and fraught with risk to actually do it. However, a growing number of professionals are taking the plunge and travelling farther and wider than ever before.

The Information Age has brought so many opportunities, one of which is the ability to work from any location. However, to do so well requires more than having a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection. We outline some important steps to take should you wish to have the digital nomad experience.

1.  Determine whether your job will allow you to work remotely

The first matter of business is to determine whether your employer or your role allows you to work remotely. If you are a frontline worker and a key aspect of your role is engaging directly with the clients in person, it may be difficult to. Operate remotely when this is key to your to your role. On the other hand, if you are ensconced at the office and interacting primarily with your colleagues, it may be possible to justify being out of the office for a stint as a digital nomad.

In many instances, it may be possible to negotiate or rearrange your schedule to allow you to be absent from the office for an extended period. However, it is also going to be important to determine and agree with your superiors or team members about possible interim arrangements or contingencies that may need to be put in place.

2.  Determine your requirements

Although your bucket list of locations you might wish to visit or work from may be long, the constraints or requirements of your work may have some impact on the locations you can realistically consider. Matters related to internet availability, quality, speed and cost, as well as other factors, such as the availability of co-working spaces, may be important criteria when evaluating one location against another.

Another factor that may narrow down your choice is time zone considerations. For example, if you need to interact with your office or with clients at specific or regular times, you may wish to limit the time zone difference you would have to juggle so that you can establish a workable routine in your remote location.

Further, also consider your personal requirements to feel comfortable and safe in your new location, which may include any specific amenities or services that are essential versus those that might be desirable. For example, if you are not someone who cooks often or does not like to cook, it may be crucial that eating out is affordable and that several options are available.

In summary, determine your non-negotiables as these will need to be prioritised and should influence the shortlist of countries from which your final selection will be made.

3.  Consider your at-home commitments

If you are working as a digital nomad for the first time or intermittently, the odds are that you will have a home base to which you will be returning. In your absence from that home base, there may still be commitments that you need to fulfil, such as paying your car note, paying your mortgage or rent, paying taxes or making suitable arrangements for the care of a pet.

In considering your at-home commitments, you are trying to ensure that there is some continuity to things that need to be attended to in your absence so that you will not necessarily be unduly disadvantaged upon your return. In the Caribbean region, where it still may not be possible to conduct all business online or remotely, it may be prudent to also have a family member or trusted friend to help when you are away.

4.  Decide your budget

Deciding your budget is going to be critical because often, are will not be allowed to be employed locally in your destination country. Generally, as a digital nomad, you are expected to be employed and/or able to support yourself financially whilst working remotely from the destination country.

Further, travel costs also need to be considered and budgeted for. In anticipation of the move, visas, travel insurance, and flights will need to be funded in addition to the expenses that will be incurred on the ground.

However, if you have at-home commitments that are financial, it may mean that you are unable to allocate your full income to support your life and lifestyle whilst based remotely. It is thus a good idea to know how much funds you may have available to finance your experience, as this may also affect the list of countries or your options going forward.

In understanding your budget, you may also be able to identify and implement options to either supplement your income or free up additional funds that can go towards your trip. For example, you may sub-let your home or rent out your vehicle whilst you are away, which would free up more funds to use when away from base.

5.  Research destination options and associated logistics

Although your initial list of destinations may be long, the requirements and constraints you previously identified should provide some criteria against which to assess the suitability of cities or countries on your list. It would now be time to fine-tune your shortlist and delve more deeply into what it would take to relocate. For example,

• Do the immigration requirements seem unduly onerous or lengthy?
• How plentiful are accommodations?
• Would suitable accommodations be within your budget?
• What is the cost of living?
• Are the desirable amenities and services available at reasonable prices?
• How easy or expensive is it to move around?
• How easy would it be to use your existing credit (or debit) cards when living remotely?
• Do you need a (separate) travel credit (or debit) card?
• What is there to do during my downtime?

Ultimately, it is about understanding not only the budget that might be necessary but also trying to understand the logistical and other factors that will contribute to you having an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

6.  Decide on the likely length of your stay

Deciding on the length of your stay abroad will most likely depend on several factors, such as the immigration requirements and cost, your own finances and budget, and whatever commitments you have at home. Generally, and from an immigration perspective, the shortest digital nomad visa or permit is around 30 days, whilst some countries offer visas for up to 10 years.

7.  Make a plan

Finally, adopting a digital nomad lifestyle, certainly initially, requires lots of preparation and planning, as you will need to organise your at-home, travel and on-the-ground remote arrangements. Typically, you may start organising and making the necessary arrangements at least three to six months prior to when you intend to travel to ensure that all of the arrangements are in place to facilitate a smooth and seamless experience.

Image credit: Freepik

This episode is also available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music!!

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving rapidly, with its capabilities expanding beyond content creation (which was so 2022!) and reaching into decision-making processes. Further, as its capabilities have increased, many of us, especially in the workplace, are excited by the help AI can provide to make us more efficient, effective and able to access resources or expertise that might otherwise not be readily available.

However, if we extend AI use in our personal lives and, more importantly, rely on it when making decisions, would that make us more efficient, effective and overall better than we would have been?

Thankfully, we have an intrepid explorer, Kashmir Hill, who wrote about that very topic in The New York Times, in which she allowed Generative AI to make all of her decisions for a week!

In addition to sharing some of her experiences with AI during that week, the writer included insights and feedback from many experts, which often offered a sage perspective on the interactions she had had.

However, in trying to keep on with what is happening not only in the Caribbean tech space but also in tech generally, it should come as no surprise that as enlightening as the article was, it also led me to additional questions and considerations.

So, in this podcast episode, it is just me and the mic. I share some of my thoughts on The New York Times article, which of course, includes a brief discourse on the pros and cons of AI. However, it also has me making other connections and asking more questions, which I thought I’d share.

We would love to hear your thoughts!

Do leave us a comment either here beneath this article, or on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or via Twitter, @ICTPulse.

Also, if you or a member of your network is interested in joining us for an episode, do get in touch.

Let’s make it happen!

Select links

Below are links to some of the organisations and resources that either were mentioned during the episode, or otherwise, might be useful:

• The New York Times article, I Took a ‘Decision Holiday’ and Put A.I. in Charge of My Life
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 160: Understanding how technology perpetuates bias, with Matthew Cowen, of dgtlfutures.com
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 187: Artificial Intelligence, key emerging issues and opportunities, with Matthew Cowen
• Joy Buolamwini book, Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What Is Human in a World of Machines
• MIT Technology Review article, We read the paper that forced Timnit Gebru out of Google. Here’s what it says.
• The New York Times article, Google Researcher Says She Was Fired Over Paper Highlighting Bias in A.I.
• The Guardian article, ‘There was all sorts of toxic behaviour’: Timnit Gebru on her sacking by Google, AI’s dangers and big tech’s biases
• People magazine article, Teen, 14, Dies by Suicide After Falling in ‘Love’ with AI Chatbot. Now His Mom Is Suing
• Dominica News Online article, CXC launches AI-assisted literacy and numeracy to combat educational decline

Image credit:  Micha (Pixabay)

Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Monday, 28 October 2024

The state of Caribbean digital transformation

Caribbean – It’s been two years since Digicel Business reported on the state of digital adoption in the Caribbean… more

Embrace AI, technology for brighter future in education

Guyana – President Irfaan Ali is urging educators in the Caribbean not to be unduly apprehensive about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on traditional teaching methods, but to embrace its challenges and opportunities as a tool for progress and potential to revolutionise personalised learning… more

Portmore set to become Jamaica’s ‘Silicon Valley’ amid push for parish status

Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced ambitious plans to transform Portmore, St Catherine, into the ‘Silicon Valley of Jamaica’ and a key technology hub for the Caribbean… more

The future of Montego Bay’s BPO industry

Jamaica – Business process outsourcing (BPO) has emerged as a vital sector in Jamaica, alongside tourism, providing significant employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the national economy… more

bmobile and CARIRI host 3,500 children at Innovation Camp

Trinidad and Tobago – In a strategic effort to prepare Trinidad and Tobago’s youth for the digital future, bmobile partnered with CARIRI to empower over 3,500 students through this year’s virtual Innovation Nation Training Camp.. more

Tech labs for special-needs schools

Trinidad and Tobago – FIVE special-needs schools have been selected to receive state-of-the-art technology labs through the Digicel Foundation’s Innovation Lab programme… more

Tuesday, 29 October 2024

Water payments to go online

British Virgin Islands – Starting in January, residents will be able to pay their water and sewerage bills online, Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer announced Friday in the House of Assembly… more

How to protect yourself from scammers offering fake jobs

Caribbean – BETWEEN finding openings, sending out your resume and interviewing, looking for a job is tough. Now a growing trend of scammers impersonating recruiters is making it even harder… more

AI enhances BPOs, not replacing employees, says itel CEO Epstein

Jamaica – Founding chairman and CEO of itel International Yoni Epstein sought to allay fears that artificial intelligence (AI) and its by-products will replace human labour in the business process outsourcing industry, otherwise called the global services industry… more

Harvard expert to discuss AI and digital transformation at UWI Mona

Jamaica – The University of the West Indies, (The UWI) Mona Campus, in collaboration with VM Group Limited, will host the third in a series of Distinguished Lectures on November 7, 2024, titled “Digital Transformation. Generative AI and Strategy… more

Wednesday, 30 October 2024

Cyber security chief: Crooks getting better

Bahamas – The Bahamas’ cyber security chief yesterday called for shared resilience and information sharing to better combat threats in an increasingly digital world… more

C&W Charitable Foundation Champions Digital Access for All

Caribbean – Partners, supporters, and stakeholders are joining together with the Cable & Wireless Charitable Foundation (CWCF) on Friday, November 1 to raise funds dedicated to connecting communities and changing lives across the Caribbean… more

CXC launches AI-assisted literacy and numeracy to combat educational decline

Caribbean – The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its educational offerings, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy, as part of a larger digital transformation initiative, as stated by Dr. Wayne Wesley, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of CXC… more

Digicel and Flow lose first round of anti-trust lawsuit

Caribbean – Jamaica’s two telecommunications giants, Digicel and Flow have lost round one in an anti-trust lawsuit filed by pioneering Caribbean media and entertainment group VertiCast… more

More banks enabling card-blocking feature for customers

Jamaica – As consumers continue to tackle fraud, more commercial banks are enabling consumers to freeze/block their cards through digital means instead of having to wait to contact the bank to do the same on their card or account… more

Thursday, 31 October 2024

E-Litigation Portal fully in place – Supreme Court

Guyana – The Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana yesterday said that it has completed the implementation of the e-litigation web portal for the Court of Appeal and High Court… more

Guyana on Tier 4 “Evolving” of Global Cybersecurity Index

Guyana – Even as the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) continues to train people across Guyana to strengthen cybersecurity in the public sector, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) this year ranked the country as Tier 4 Evolving on its 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI)… more

NCB resolving Uber/Visa debit card transaction discrepancies

Jamaica – National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) says it has identified a technical issue affecting Uber transactions made by some customers using their Visa Debit cards and is actively addressing the discrepancy… more

Norbrook Transaction Services launches ePay cashless solution for schools

Jamaica – Norbrook Transaction Service Ltd (NTS), a subsidiary of Norbrook Equities Partners (NEP), has unveiled a digital payment solution that, it said, will revolutionise payment management within schools… more

Online property tax payments start today

Trinidad and Tobago – The online payment of property tax will come on stream from today, assured Finance Minister Colm Imbert… more

Friday, 1 November 2024

BTC upgrades contact center to improve customer care

Bahamas – BTC has upgraded its customer support capabilities with the launch of the Genesys Conversational Interactive Voice Response (IVR) platform at its Contact Center… more

‘Hold them accountable’: Hotels in Airbnb rescues

Bahamas – Hoteliers yesterday demanded that vacation rental owners be “held accountable” and pay their fair share in government taxes as several revealed how they “rescued” tourists from sub-standard properties… more

EU, partners champion human-centric digitalisation in Latin America, Caribbean

Caribbean – EVEN IF WE accept that technologies are neutral tools, deploying them in the real world always involves values and interests, sometimes competing. One of the most contested sectors is without a doubt digital infrastructure, a sector that has the potential to empower people, but also to oppress, exacerbate security risks and increase inequalities… more

Flow customers in eastern Curaçao face major service outage due to burnt cable incident

Curaçao – Flow customers in the eastern part of Curaçao experienced a significant outage on Friday morning after an incident involving a burned power cable, the internet provider confirmed via social media… more

Guyana on “evolving” tier of Global Cybersecurity Index

Guyana – Even as the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) continues to train people across Guyana to strengthen cybersecurity in the public sector, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) this year ranked the country as evolving (Tier 4) on its 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI)… more

Industry leaders gather to ‘Unlock the Power of Cyber Intelligence’ at Guardsman cybersecurity event

Jamaica – Guardsman Cyber Intelligence, powered by Guardsman,  hosted an exclusive cybersecurity event on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at The Serengeti, Hope Zoo, drawing industry leaders from across various sectors… more

Scotiabank Jamaica named World’s Best Consumer Digital Bank 2024

Jamaica – Scotiabank has been named among the Best Consumer Digital Bank Award 2024 winners by Global Finance (New York). The Bank also copped the prestigious award for its operations in The Bahamas, Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos Islands… more

NHC Begins Land Preparation for New Smart Homes

Saint Kitts and Nevis – The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has begun clearing lands for the construction of new smart homes, marking a significant step forward in its mission to provide affordable, high-quality, climate-resilient housing… more

TTSE looking at digital tracker of S&P 500

Trinidad and Tobago – It is extremely difficult to access foreign exchange for portfolio investing purposes… more

TSTT must pay $1.1m for breach of Blink service agreement

Trinidad and Tobago – A High Court judge has ordered the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) to pay one of its vendors $1.1 million for breaching an agreement to provide field service agents for its Blink operations for three years in 2017… more

Saturday, 2 November 2024

Failure to report hacks hampers cyber-crime fight

Cayman Islands – It only takes 2.13 seconds for ransomware to deploy and seize complete control of a company’s or individual’s database, but getting that information back could take months… more

Sunday, 3 November 2024

 Top 10 social media tips for entrepreneurs for 2025

Caribbean – With 2025 nearly upon us, and the rapidly changing tides in social media, entrepreneurs can leverage the apps to build their brand, grow their businesses, reach new audiences, and achieve greater success… more

Launch of an online platform for registering individual businesses 

Haiti – On Thursday, October 31, 2024, James Monazard, the Minister of Trade and Industry (MCI), officially launched an online platform for registering individual businesses and searching for prior art and availability of business names… more

‘Banger’ complaints ring loud

Jamaica – SINCE the shutdown of the 2G network in Jamaica, the local organisation for rural women producers has received more than 100 complaints from its members, with challenges ranging from an inability to upgrade handsets due to cost, to lack of support to facilitate the transition… more

From frustration to resolution

Jamaica – Dear Claudienne,  I am writing to you on behalf of my uncle, who has been facing a frustrating and unresolved issue with Flow Jamaica… more

Image credits: congerdesign (Pixabay); Wikipedia; itelCX (Facebook); CXC; SeekVectorLogo; Flow (Facebook); Wikipedia

In our increasingly digital world, There has been an emphasis on individuals becoming more digitally literate. However, improving cyber literacy is more important than ever.

To be clear, cyber literacy’s focus is primarily on online safety, security, and responsible usage. On the other hand, digital literacy covers a broader set of skills, including the effective and critical use of digital tools, technologies, and online resources. Hence, cyber literacy could be seen as a specialised subset of digital literacy.

In light of the breaches that have occurred in Barbados over the last few years, and more recently at the Barbados Revenue Authority, it should not come as a surprise that the country’s Minister of Industry, Innovation, Science, and Technology, Marsha Caddle, expressed concern about citizens poor understanding of digital safety:

“I think most important [to] the cyber hygiene of your institution and of the country, is the people. What are the steps, what are the practices that individuals and organisations take every day to make sure that your last line of defence, the people who are using the software working in the institutions understand the risks and do not take unnecessary risks with information…

“There is this notion that the Internet is a place where knowledge happens, and so I will click on something and I will start to understand… not realising that that is one of the easiest ways to get access to things people should not have access to…”

Source:  Barbados Today

The views the Minister expressed on people’s attitude to the internet and data security are not unique to Barbados. Although we all use the internet and enjoy the benefits of having such access, many of us are woefully ignorant about the associated risks and dangers and, more importantly, the steps we, personally, can take to reduce our risk and exposure. We outline six, which, if followed, would greatly boost your cyber literacy

1. Understand basic cybersecurity concepts

A great first step to becoming cyber literate is familiarising yourself with essential cybersecurity concepts. These foundational practices are not new, as experts have been advocating their use and adoption for several years. However, by understanding and implementing them, you will be well on your way to a safer online experience.

• Password hygiene. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and consider a reputable password manager. Ideally, passwords should be long – the longer, the better, and a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and characters. Further, passwords should not be repeated and should not be simple and readily recognisable words.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA). Although enabling 2FA might be a bother – an additional step before you can fully access your account, it adds an additional layer of security beyond your password.
• Data encryption. Encryption helps keep your data secure when it is stored or transmitted.
• Antivirus and anti-malware software. Regularly updating security software is critical for protecting your devices, and it is also important to run a full scan of your devices regularly to ensure you are aware of any vulnerabilities that have been identified.

2. Be aware of social engineering attacks

Social engineering is one of the most common types of cyber threats, relying on human psychology rather than software vulnerabilities. Phishing emails, phone scams, and other social engineering techniques aim to trick people into divulging personal information.

• Recognise phishing emails and messages. Look out for emails with odd sender addresses, poor grammar, urgent demands, or concerning matters of which you are not aware. Always verify before clicking links or sharing information.
• Verify sources. When contacted by someone claiming to be from a reputable organisation, contact the organisation directly to confirm. Also, when questionable emails are received, checking the sender’s email address may give you some clues as to the source. If unsure, independently research the organisation and contact it directly.

3. Stay informed on privacy and data protection

To effectively manage your digital footprint, it is important to know what data you share online and how it is used. It is thus crucial to stay informed on privacy issues and your rights as the owner of your personal data and content, so you can make conscious decisions about the information you share.

• Read privacy policies. Often, we are eager to access the services we want and so accept the terms of service and privacy policy without reviewing them. However, privacy policies help you understand how companies use your data, so it is important to familiarise yourself with the terms of any services you use.
• Control permissions. Regularly review permissions on mobile apps and social media accounts to limit data access. Disable access to unnecessary information like location or contacts.
• Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) when necessary. If you’re using public Wi-Fi or a network where you are uncertain of the security that is in place, a VPN adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for others to access your data.

4. Manage digital health and information literacy

Cyber literacy goes beyond technical skills; it includes understanding how to engage with information online responsibly. Awareness of possible traps and pitfalls is key.

• Practice information verification. With the rise of fake news and misinformation, double-check facts before sharing. Use reliable sources and cross-reference information.
• Understand algorithms. Social media platforms use algorithms to suggest content to keep you engaged and on the platform for as long as possible. Being aware of this can help you moderate your exposure, avoid confirmation bias and broaden your perspective.

5. Practice safe digital communication

Communicating online involves risks, especially when sharing sensitive information. Social media platforms, in particular, can give us a false sense of security, and we may divulge matters to our network or followers that we otherwise would not do.

• Be cautious with personal data. Avoid sharing sensitive information like your social security number or financial details over email or text.
• Use secure communication platforms. Opt for messaging platforms with end-to-end encryption, like Signal or WhatsApp, for personal conversations.
• Understand the risks of social sharing. Social media can make you more vulnerable to identity theft or other threats if you overshare personal information, such as your birth date, address or even your location in real-time.

6. Keep up with technology and security trends

Finally, it is crucial to keep in mind that the digital landscape is constantly evolving. The onus is on you to keep abreast of the changes, the ways you could be affected and how to better protect yourself. By staying informed, you will be better prepared to handle emerging threats.

• Follow reputable cybersecurity sources: Websites like the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and government sites like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), regularly update about current threats.
• Participate in cybersecurity training: Many online courses, often free, are available on platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. Many of these courses are not intensive and will not result in certification but will help you to deepen your understanding and keep your skills up to date.

To wrap up…

Whether for personal use or professional security, a strong foundation in cyber literacy helps protect against data breaches, identity theft, and misinformation. However, improving your cyber literacy is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and adaptability. Remember, the more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to navigate and enjoy all that the digital world has to offer… safely.

Image credit:  onlyyouqj (Freepik)

This episode is also available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music!!

Welcome to our October 2024 Community Chat episode! This month’s discussion is a true mash-up of topics as there does not readily appear to be a common or cohesive theme – but that makes for an interesting show!

Unlike our September chat, both of our guests showed up, and thanks to their diverse backgrounds and expertise, we enjoyed a rich and engaging conversation. We welcome your thoughts and feedback and encourage to extend these discussions to your own circles.

Introducing our guest panellists

Debbie Jollie is an independent business and marketing strategist, digital marketing consultant, lecturer and speaker who runs a full-service marketing agency. She holds a Master’s degree in Management Consultancy and a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Enterprise.

Debbie has over 15 years of experience in managing marketing strategies and consulting with brands in the Caribbean, USA, UK, Australia and South America. She specialises in Marketing and Business Strategy, Digital Marketing and Growth Marketing.

Garfield Gordon is a multi-disciplinary Technology Architect and Digital Transformation Consultant having over 30 years of diverse IT experience including software development, field engineering, enterprise architecture, systems engineering, cybersecurity, training and management in Jamaica, the Caribbean, Canada and the United States of America. He has extensive knowledge in: start-ups, medium to large enterprises, independent software vendors (ISV), value-added resellers (VAR), aviation, real estate, financial services, business process outsourcing, managed services; telecommunications and other vertical markets.

After spending 12 years at Cisco Systems Incorporated, he continues to focus on diverse projects in business transformation, architectural and technical solutions, cybersecurity, data protection, and the Internet of Things, with engagements across Governments, Service Providers, large enterprises, and Small to Medium Businesses throughout the Caribbean and the Americas.

The topics discussed

In recognition of Cybersecurity Month, but noting not the numerous tools and expertise available, there is still widespread concern that Caribbean countries, in particular, are still underprepared for digital threats. Although some countries reported a decline in successful attacks, devastating incidents are still occurring across the region. We thus opened our conversation with the topic, With all the available protections, why are we more vulnerable than ever to cyberattacks?

Second, although Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been around for several years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is gaining prominence. In some circles, ESG and CSR are being used interchangeably, but they are different, which we discuss. Further, in some instances, ICT can have an impact on these obligations and vice versa. So our second topic is, ESG versus CSR and the effects on ICT.

Finally, and arguably a positive outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the increased appreciation of remote work and the benefits to both employers and employees.  However, it’s one thing to work from home but completely another to relocate temporarily and work from another country. Yet, more and more people, even in the Caribbean, are embracing that lifestyle and moving to far-flung locations. On previous podcast episodes, we had young digital nomads (people in their 20s and early 30s) on the show, but how different might the experience be for older or more experienced professionals?  Our final topic focused on, Caribbean consultants becoming true digital nomads.

We would love to hear your thoughts!

Do leave us a comment either here beneath this article, or on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or via Twitter, @ICTPulse.

Also, if you or a member of your network is interested in joining us for an episode, do get in touch.

Let’s make it happen!

Select links

Below are links to some of the organisations and resources that either were mentioned during the episode, or otherwise, might be useful:

• Debbie Jollie
• Garfield Gordon
• Debbie Jollie Marketing and Business Coach
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – UK
• Jamaica Observer article, Jamaica suffered 43 million cyber attack attempts in 2023 — Fortinet
• Jamaica Observer article, Jamaicans urged to remain vigilant despite sharp reduction in attempted cyberattacks
• The Gleaner article, Jamaica targeted 4 million times by cybercriminals so far this year
• The Gleaner article, ICWI issues alert to clients after cyberattack
• Barbados Revenue Authority article, Hackers claim access to BRA’s admin portal
• Trinidad and Tobago Guardian article, Barbados Revenue Authority probing data breach
• Barbados Today article, BDF Cyber Unit leading investigation into Revenue Authority hack
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 318: Stepping out of your comfort zone and living as a digital nomad 
• Cisco Networking Academy
• Amber Group

Image Credit:  D Jollie;  G Gordon; Matthias Zeitler (Pixabay);  freepik;  freepik

Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez