GraceKennedy (GK) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Jamaican Birthright Programme. The initiative invites second and third-generation Jamaican university students from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada to reconnect with their heritage through a unique six-week cultural and professional internship in Jamaica.
“With deep roots in Jamaica and a global presence, GraceKennedy is committed to investing in the next generation of leaders who will carry our nation’s story into boardrooms, classrooms, operating rooms, and creative spaces around the world,” said GK Group CEO, Frank James. “It is about more than visiting Jamaica, it is about experiencing it in a way that builds belonging, pride, and purpose.”
Since its inception in 2004, the GK Jamaican Birthright programme has impacted more than 60 participants, immersing them in Jamaica’s civic, cultural, and professional landscapes. It blends work placements across GraceKennedy’s business units with curated cultural and heritage experiences, equipping interns with both career-enhancing skills and a deeper sense of identity and belonging.
The recently concluded 2025 programme, which ran from June 23 to August 6, welcomed four students: Abigail Ralph (McGill University, Canada), Lauren Roach (University of Miami, USA), Josiah Royes (Hofstra University, USA), and Kyrah McIntosh (Liverpool Hope University, UK). Their journey included professional development opportunities, and meetings with national leaders including Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Linton Allen, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith.
As part of the programme’s Heritage Pathway tours, the interns explored Jamaica’s vibrant history and traditions, visiting landmarks and cultural sites across the island. These experiences provided valuable insights into the nation’s heritage and offered opportunities to reflect on their own cultural connections.
“I’ve always loved being of Jamaican heritage, but for the first time, I felt fully part of Jamaica, like I belonged,” shared Abigail Ralph, who recently completed a master’s degree in neuroscience at McGill University.
The success of the programme relies on the invaluable support of public and private sector organisations committed to nation-building and the engagement of the Jamaican youth diaspora. Key partners include: Island Car Rentals, official transportation partner; Caribbean Airlines, official airline partner; and the Jamaica Tourist Board. For the 2025 programme, additional support was provided by Jakes Hotel, River Rapids, Chukka Caribbean, Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience, FLOW Jamaica, Juici Patties, Island Grill, Urban Development Corporation, The Bob Marley Foundation, Burger King Jamaica, Restaurants of Jamaica, The Port Authority of Jamaica, YS Falls, The National Gallery, and the Jamaica Music Museum. Contributions also came from GK subsidiaries, Hi-Lo Food Stores, Grace Foods & Services, and World Brands Services.
Second and third-generation Jamaican university students between the ages of 18 and 25, living in the US, UK or Canada, are encouraged to apply for the 2026 GK Birthright Programme by visiting www.gracekennedy.com.
