Globally, offshore outsourcing is a huge market and growing. By 2030, it is expected to be valued at half a trillion dollars! It is thus highly dynamic and competitive with Caribbean countries trying to maintain and even increase their size of pie. Wayne Sinclair, the current President of the Global Services Association of Jamaica, formerly the Business Process Industry Association of Jamaica, joins us to discuss the state of the industry, including:   *  whether Jamaica’s outsourcing industry can continue to grow and remain globally competitive;   *  the impact technologies such as AI and Robotic Process Automation are having on the industry;   *  what it might take to move up the value chain; and   *  his thoughts on the future of outsourcing.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

Although we have all played video games, video games developed by Caribbean developers appear to have little or no visibility. Moreover, there is no video game development industry in the region to speak of, and the underpinning ecosystem remains underdeveloped. However, by 2023, the size of the global video games industry is expected by valued at half a trillion US Dollars! We circle back to a 2021 conversation we had with video game developers, Glen Henry, of Spritewrench Studios, and Graham Reid, of GrahamOfLegend, where they discussed the state of game development and the potential and opportunities in the Caribbean region, including: *  the economic benefits for Caribbean countries; *  the region’s strengths and weaknesses; *  the business of video gaming development; and *  advice for individuals who want to get into game development.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

Almost without exception, all Caribbean countries are net importers of technology, especially ICT. In other words, we import considerably more of the ICT goods and services we use than we export. With Vashti Maharaj, the Adviser, Digital Trade Policy, of the Commonwealth Secretariat, we discuss technology as an export and how Caribbean countries can better develop this increasingly crucial aspect of their economy. Some of the areas covered include:   *  defining the concept of technology as an export;   *  factors hindering the growth of the technology export sector in the region;   *  important trade agreements that can benefit Caribbean technology exporters; and   *  advice she would give to a Caribbean tech entrepreneur looking to expand internationally.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

According to the research and advisory firm, Forrester, the global digital economy will reach USD 16.5 trillion and capture 17 per cent of global GDP by 2028, but how is the Caribbean region’s digital economy developing? Management Consultant and International Trade Policy Specialist, Chelceé Brathwaite, returns to the Podcast to provide an update. She discusses among other things:    *  the changes or developments that have occurred regarding the concept of the digital economy since our first conversation in 2022;   *  the metrics used to measure a country’s digital economy;   *  key challenges to Caribbean countries more fully realising their digital economies; and   *  priorities should Caribbean countries and/or the region be focussing on to more fully develop their digital economies.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our September 2024 Community Chat, and with a member of the Caribbean tech community, Steven Williams of Data Privacy and Management Advisory Services in Barbados, we discuss:    *  Can effective cybercrime laws not encroach on freedom of expression?   *  Job displacement: has AI already begun reshaping the Caribbean economy?   *  Is increased digitisation and online learning what we need to improve student learning and the Caribbean education system?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Whether we realise it or not, data centres are the backbone of our online experience. All the digital services we enjoy use data centres to store, manage and process all of the data, interactions and transactions generated. Giovanni King, the CEO of Blue NAP Americas and the Chairman of the Caribbean Datacenter Association discusses, among other things:    *  the kind of services or facilities typically offered at a data centre;     *  the current demand for data centres in the Caribbean region;    *  key challenges and opportunities for Caribbean data centres;  and   *  the potential impact of technologies such as AI, IoT, or blockchain on the future of Caribbean data centres.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In the fourth instalment in our Expert Insights series on cyber threats and security for 2024, cybersecurity expert, David Gittens, discusses, among other things:   *  the latest developments in the security space;   *  why there ought to be a greater emphasis on cybersecurity guidelines in the Caribbean;   *  why ransomware is the most pressing threat; and   *  why organisations need to invest more in risk assessment.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Do you have what it takes to be a digital nomad? We revisit a 2022 conversation we had with the following intrepid travellers: Juleen Gentles, who is from Jamaica, but spoke with us from Ghana; Marsiya Issah who is from Ghana, but had been living in Barbados; and Andres Phillips, who is from Barbados, but had recently ended a 10-month stint in Colombia and Mexico. During the episode, Andres, Juleen and Marsiya share:   *  their journey to becoming digital nomads and some of their experiences on the ground;   *  their experience and the challenges regarding internet access and language barriers; and     *  some advice to those who might be thinking of becoming digital nomads.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________    

In our rapidly changing world, the classroom is critical in preparing upcoming generations for the life and work environment they will face in the future. Academic, former Minister for Education and international Consultant, Dr Gale Rigobert, shares her thoughts on, among other things:     *  the education system in the English-speaking Caribbean and how it has evolved;   *  whether the brain drain the region experiences is a problem with our education system; and   *  how technology can be effectively integrated into the Caribbean classroom to enhance learning outcomes.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our August 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Nima Anvar, Hotelier and Chief Executive Officer of conversational AI platform GuestChat in Grenada, and Max Larson Henry, Network Engineer and Founder of the tech company, Transversal, which is based in the United States and Haiti, the panel discusses:   *  Community internet networks;   *  the recently launched Eastern Caribbean Association of Science and Technology; and   *  can Caribbean online shoppers get more protection?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Starting on 21 August 2024, we are just days away from the 20th Caribbean Internet Governance Forum, the longest-running Internet Governance Forum in the world! With Nigel Cassimire, the Deputy Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union and Coordinator of the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF), we get an update on the Internet Governance space and the CIGF.  During our conversation with Nigel, he shared:   *  how Internet Governance and the conversations on IG have been evolving;   *  the most prominent or topical issues in the IG space currently;   *  the likely focus areas of the upcoming CIGF; and   *  whether there are any specific issues the Caribbean region ought to be focusing on.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

Agriculture is the bedrock of our societies and our ability to feed ourselves. However, with difficult terrain, climate change and more resilient pests to name just a few of the challenges that plague that sector, having ready access to accurate and relevant crop-related information could be a game changer for farmers everywhere. In this episode, Dr Haimwant Persaud of Latitude Geospatial Consulting discusses his mobile application, Latitude Sat2Farm, including:   *  how it works and the technologies it uses;   *  the types of insights it can provide farmers;   *  the benefit Latitude Sat2Farm could offer Caribbean farmers, as the region is prone to natural disasters; and   *  other tools or technologies the region should be leveraging to help us become more resilient.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Across the Caribbean region, most countries are embarking on projects to implement a digital ID system. Although there are considerable national benefits to doing so, improving and increasing citizens’ access such as a broad range of services, digital IDs is a complex exercise. We revisit a 2022 interview with Trevor Forrest, of 876 Solutions on the subject, where we discuss:     *  Why is it becoming increasingly important to have a digital ID?    *  What are the benefits of having a digital ID?    *  What can countries do to develop trust in digital ID?    *  And what are the potential benefits and implications of heightened surveillance via digital IDs?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our July 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Tessa Drayton, a Brand Communication and Reputation Management Specialist based in Trinidad and Tobago, and Rodney Browne, the Founder of eCaribbean Limited in Saint Kitts and Nevis, the panel discusses:    *  With increasing tech-related regulation, how can organisations better manage risk?    *  In an age of technology and AI is the Admin Assistant role becoming obsolete?     *  And, the role of technology in disaster preparedness, mitigation and response.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Regulatory technology (or regtech) is expected to be worth over USD 87 billion by 2028, but it is an underdeveloped fintech segment in the Caribbean region. However, as regulatory oversight increases in areas such as cybersecurity and data protection, increasingly, regtech will not be limited to the banking and fintech sectors. Circling back to a 2022 episode, regtech expert, Jennifer Potter, gives us a primer on regtech, and discusses, among other things:     *  the other industries, besides banking and financial services, in which regtech can be applied;    *  how regtech can improve the customer experience regarding the Know-Your-Customer (KYC) rules and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance obligation; and   *  key things organisations should consider before they decide to integrate regtech into their operations.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

In our third instalment of the series, The internet we should want in 2024 and beyond, Matthew Cowen of dgtlfutures, shares his thoughts on the subject. Though the topic is broad, our conversation touches on, among other things:   *  social media;   *  the state of advertising on the Internet;   *  major trends or technological advancements that are shaping the internet today; and   *  current and emerging challenges regarding the internet of which we should be more aware.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

In the third instalment in our Expert Insights series on cyber threats and security for 2024, and with Edward Millington of CariSec Global, he discusses, among other things:   *  the latest developments in the security space;   *  the relationship between the data protection and cybercrime frameworks;   *  some of the reasons why the Barbados House of Assembly sent the country's Cybercrime Bill 2024 back to the Joint Select Committee for review and amendment;    *  the use of AI to facilitate threats and security; and   *  the priority areas in which organisations should be making their cybersecurity investments in 2024.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

The readiness of businesses to operate with a ‘digital-first’ posture has become critical as we all strive to compete and remain relevant in an increasingly global marketplace. With Nadeen Matthews Blair, of Crescent Advisory Group, we discuss the results of the latest Caribbean Digital Readiness Survey conducted by PwC, including:   *  what it means to be a ‘digital champion’;   *  Nadeen’s observations on AI’s use in business;   *  why organisations might have an improving digital IQ but still limited innovation; and   *  what businesses facing survival-level threats from digital disruption can do to improve their situation.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In the Caribbean region, small-scale farming is the backbone of our agriculture sector, but often, it is difficult for farmers to access funding that would be open to ventures in other sectors.  FarmCredibly has been working on addressing such challenges by providing simplified financial services to underbanked farmers in Jamaica. In a follow-up conversation with one of its Co-Founders, Danelia Doyle, we discuss, among other things:    *  how FarmCredibly has evolved since our first conversation in 2021;   *  the new WhatsApp-based accounting service FarmCredibly has developed;   *  why most start-ups fail; and   *  important lessons she has learned since launching FarmCredibly.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our June 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Aldin Crosdale, an IT Internal Auditor in Jamaica and the Community Manager for the Jamaican Developers Community/Caribbean Tech Connect, and Halle Johnson (Mr.), a Systems Administrator at the University of The West Indies Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda, the panel discusses:    *  How do we ready our workforce for the coming changes that AI will bring?   *  Challenges in selling and producing local ICT products and services; and   *  CXC’s intention to discontinue certain STEM subjects, is it a good or bad thing?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Whether we realise it or not, the decisions C-suite executives are making are shaping our digital experiences: the way we live, work, and interact online and with technology. With Lisa-Maria Alexander, a Certified Chartered Director, and the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Strategist of The Leadership Xperience, and focusing on Caribbean organisations, Lisa-Maria gives a perspective from the boardroom. Among other things, she shares with us:   *  how C-suite executives are approaching issues such as technology, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and data protection;   *  some of the unique challenges they face when implementing digital strategies; and   *  the tension that can sometimes exist between the Board and Management.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Thanks to technology, especially generative artificial intelligence (AI), getting into the hands of consumers, the business landscape and our societies have been evolving faster than ever.  Lorenzo Hodges of Plain White Table is back again to continue the conversation we started in 2019 on innovation in organisations. Now five years later, Lorenzo shares his thoughts on, among other things:   *  the impact of the pandemic on innovation;   *  the importance of asking the right questions;   *  the mindset business leaders ought to possess to encourage innovation among their teams;   *  the connection between digital transformation and innovation; and   *  the impact of AI on innovation.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Being part of the global marketplace has many benefits. Though we, in the Caribbean region, are innovative and culturally rich, doing business successfully with international customers is still challenging – especially for micro, small and medium enterprises. Kadion Preston, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Caribshopper, an e-commerce platform that allows Caribbean merchants to sell their products to consumers globally, shares the Caribshopper story. In this episode, Kadion discusses, among other things:   *  how Caribshopper has been able to navigate the challenges many Caribbean MSMEs face regarding electronic payments;   *  how Caribshopper has been able to manage cross-border logistics and fulfilment;   *  the requirements that would need to be satisfied for other Caribbean countries to be added to Caribshopper;   *  and where Kadion would like to see Caribshopper in the next 3 to 5 years.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In our May 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Allison James, a Certified Information Systems Auditor and  Certified Information Privacy Professional based at KPMG in Barbados, and Rojane Rose, a Product Owner at MC Systems in Jamaica, the panel discusses:    *  data and digital illiteracy in a world of data privacy and cybersecurity;   *  the digital challenge of national data collection; and   *  technology, the future of finance and empowering young people for the digital economy.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Digital public infrastructure (DPI) is a critical enabler of the digital transformation of countries by helping them to improve the delivery of public service at scale. Our guests, David Soutar and Matthew McNaughton of the SlashRoots Foundation, discuss, among other things:   *  what is DPI and why it is important;   *  how DPI can be designed to be inclusive and ensure equitable access for all citizens;   *  what Caribbean countries can learn from India’s experience in implementing its digital ID system and unified payments interface; and   *  how Caribbean nations can collaborate to create regional DPI initiatives that benefit all.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

We celebrate our 300th episode of the Podcast with a long-time friend of the show, Trevor Forrest, experienced IT expert and Founder of 876 Technology Solutions, in which we continue the discussion we started in January 2024 on the internet we should want in 2024 and beyond. In this conversation, Trevor shares his thoughts on:   *  how the internet has evolved over the past 30 years;   *  Artificial intelligence and its potential to level the playing field in favour of developing countries;   *  what policymakers don't get about the Internet of Everything;   *  the digital economy and what we ought to be doing to grow it;   *  whether we should be taking quantum computing more seriously at this time;   *  and much more!   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________   

In our April 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Jordanne Elliott, a Project Manager in Jamaica, and Friend of the Show, Liselle Yorke, a Communications Strategist, originally from Tobago but based in the United States, the panel discusses:    •  Tech career insights, and the future of work in the Caribbean;   •  Content creation for persons with disabilities; and   •  Using the Internet to preserve our history.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________   

For the past few years, most Caribbean countries have been sitting on the sidelines of conversations on 5G, as there were no immediate plans for it to be deployed. However, within the past year, Paradise Mobile has launched operations in Bermuda, with the Cayman Islands next in line, and more Caribbean countries to come. Zlatko Zahirovic, the Chief Technical Officer and a Co-Founder of Paradise Mobile, joins us to discuss, among other things:    *  how Paradise Mobile has been able to launch viable 5G operations in the region;   *  whether Paradise Mobile is a technology company or an innovation company, and    *  how Caribbean countries could better position themselves to experience or leverage 5G.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Natural disasters and other emergencies are not situations that can be completely avoided, but like insurance, it is good to have access to the requisite support in times of need. As we approach the 2024 North Atlantic hurricane season, we thought it opportune to reshare a conversation we had with Sylvester Cadette, of the International Telecommunication Union, in 2021 on the Tampere Convention in which we discussed, among other things:     *  the Tampere Convention, what it is and why more Caribbean countries ought to accede to it;   *  the challenges that are likely to occur when countries have not signed on to the Convention;   *  reasons why countries are not signing on the Convention; plus   *  the need for Caribbean countries to have more comprehensive emergency telecommunications plans in place.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In the second instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2024, and with Obika Gellineau, the Cyber Services Manager of KPMG in Trinidad and Tobago, he discusses, among other things:    *  the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) data leak;   *  AI-related security risks of which we should be aware;   *  the biggest cybersecurity challenges faced by businesses today; and   *  three key things organisations should be doing in 2024 to improve their network/IT security posture.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In this our March 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Lendon Telesford and Perro Perry Holloway, the panel discusses:   *  the digital inclusion of persons with disabilities (generally) and the inclusion of persons with disability in the workplace with technology; and   *  the slippery slope between crime prevention and mass surveillance.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Ultra-personalisation was identified as a trend to watch in the early 2010s and it has become increasingly evident and integral in the delivery of a broad range of services, including online education.   In our follow-up conversation with Ricardo Allen, the Founder and CEO of One on One Educational Services, he shares with us, among other things:   *  what has been happening at One on One since our last interview in 2020;   *  how the company has been leveraging AI in its operations;    *  what it is like to move from a scrappy start-up to a publicly traded company; and   *  important lessons he has learnt during this wild and crazy journey.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Innovation. Virtually everyone hopes they are considered innovative, and organisations and our societies at large also want to be seen as being innovative, but there are several myths surrounding innovation that ought to be debunked. We revisit our 2019 interview with Lorenzo Hodges, of innovation strategy firm, Plain White Table, in which he discusses, among other things:     *  the biggest misconception people have about innovation;   *  how innovation can be systematised in organisations; and   *  critical elements that must be in place for innovation to truly become part of an organisation’s culture.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

A few years ago, blockchain technology was considered transformative – the best thing since sliced bread – but today, we have not been hearing much about it at all. With Cleve Mesidor of the Blockchain Foundation, we discuss:   *  the current state of blockchain technology,   *  how it can be leveraged in the Caribbean region, especially to improve the lives and livelihoods of ordinary citizens, and   *  what countries ought to be doing to capitalise on the opportunities and efficiencies blockchain technology facilitates.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In the first instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2024, and once again with Sean Slattery of Caribbean Solutions Lab, he discusses, among other things:    *  the changes in the threat landscape that occurred in 2023;   *  the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the security space;   *  ethical considerations surrounding cybersecurity, particularly in areas like privacy and surveillance;   *  possible implications of nation-state-sponsored cyberattacks; and   *  three things organisations should be doing in 2024 to improve their network/IT security.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________   

In our February 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Media and Business Strategist, Nerissa Golden, of Goldenmedia LLC, and ICT Consultant and head of PromoTIC in Haiti, Gregory Domond, the panel discusses:   *  Governments and their use of influencers and content marketing as part of their communications strategy;   *  telecommunications networks and infrastructure resilience assessments and the lessons Caribbean countries can learn from the recently concluded assessment exercise in Haiti; and   *   regulating digital media, can it be done without undermining citizens’ rights?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________   

How long could our countries feed themselves if they were cut off from the rest of the world and could only depend on the resources currently within their domain? It is a question more countries are grappling with when addressing matters related to food security and sustainable agriculture. In this podcast episode, we circle back to Bevon Chadel Charles and Akata Farms in Grenada to find out, among other things:   *  how the farm has been doing since our first conversation in 2021;   *  what Bevon thinks about the ‘new’ focus on AgTech and the challenges of that space that people don’t talk about; and   *  why passion doesn’t sell.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________   

Without a doubt, many conversations are being had globally on artificial intelligence (AI), and one of the most important occurred during the recently held Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. Software Architect and Tech Entrepreneur, Joel Dean, who attended the meeting, joins us on this episode and shares with us:    *  the AI-related issues that were discussed at Davos;    *  important takeaways he had from those discussions; and   *  how we, in the Caribbean (and perhaps more broadly developing countries), should be positioning ourselves for AI and the future of tech.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

The robotics programme in Saint Kitts and Nevis has been growing from strength to strength since we last spoke to Dr. Ricardo Neil in late 2018 and even has expanded to other Caribbean countries. Now the Chairman and Founder of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Robotics Association, Professor Neil discusses, among other things:   *  how the Saint Kitts and Nevis robotics space has evolved;   *  Caribbean-wide trends that might be emerging;   *  some of the challenges or opportunities specific to the region that we ought to consider; and   *  how we could better build a thriving robotics ecosystem in the Caribbean.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In our January 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Esmeralda Levens of BearingPoint Caribbean in Curaçao, and Technology Architect and Digital Transformation Consultant, Garfield Gordon, of Jamaica, the panel discusses:    *  e-commerce in the Caribbean;   *  the resilience of our internet infrastructure; and   *  the Caribbean brain drain in the remote work era.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Is the internet we should want in 2024 different from the internet we wanted in 2014? The internet of 2014 has evolved considerably, but have our expectations of the internet and the ways we could be using it, kept up with the developments that have occurred? With Telecommunications/Internet Operations and Policy Strategist, Shernon Osepa, we discuss the current state of the internet in the Caribbean region and how we could be better leveraging it in 2024 and beyond. Below are some of the questions that shaped our conversation: 1.     How has the landscape of the internet evolved over the past 5—10 years? 2.     What are the major trends or technological advancements that are shaping the internet today? 3.  The internet has become integral to everyday life. What are your thoughts on how we in the Caribbean currently use the internet, versus how we should be using the internet? 4.     The issue of trust – or a lack thereof – has been hindering the development of e-commerce and even some basic fintech segments across the region. What should we want as a region? 5.     From the country perspective, how have we in the Caribbean been using the internet, versus how we should be using the internet?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

Deep tech and impact innovation are not terms that are readily discussed in the Caribbean tech start-up space but are considered crucial and strategic if the region wants to level up and truly punch above its weight in tech innovation and entrepreneurship. Telly Valerie Onu, of Quintessence Consulting Inc., shares with us key insights on how Caribbean countries can increase the impact of technology on their societies and how tech entrepreneurs can better access the support they need. Among other things, we discuss:   *  What is meant by the terms, ‘deep tech’, ‘convergence economics’ and ‘impact innovation’ and the connection between them;   *  Challenges that developers and start-ups face generally and when working with embedded deep tech; and   *  How the tech community can leverage the opportunities in AgTech and climate financing.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

In this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2023, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Yacine Khelladi of the Caribbean ICT Stakeholders Virtual Community (CIVIC), and Matthew Cowen, of dgtlfutures, the panel discusses the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2023, and what might be in store in 2024. Questions answered during the discussion include:    •    What were the year's big ICT/tech issues in the Caribbean region?    •    Were there issues that gained more traction than they had anticipated, and were there ones that fell short of their expectations?    •    What ICT/tech issues will be big in the Caribbean region in 2024?    •    What issues should policymakers focus on addressing in 2024?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

We are continuing our series on Fintech in the Caribbean region with Kanoo Pays, a “Non-Bank Electronic Retail Payment Institution” headquartered in The Bahamas.  With Nicholas Rees, Chairman of Kanoo Pays, we discuss:   *  How Kanoo Pays has been able to distinguish itself from other digital wallets; *  The current state of the fintech industry in The Bahamas; *  Why CBDC adoption has been slow in Caribbean countries that have launched a digital currency; and *  What does Kanoo want to achieve in the next 3 years?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________ 

We continue our Tech in Africa series with a conversation with Pinaman Owusu-Banahane, the Founder and CEO of ADJOAA, a curated multi-brand online marketplace specialising in premium and sustainable fashion and lifestyle products made by African designers and Black-owned businesses.  Pinaman shares her journey to establish a tech business in Ghana and answers questions on, among other things:   *  the entrepreneurial and start-up space in Ghana;   *  the successes ADJOAA has been able to realise to date; and   *  the challenges of creating an online marketplace that connects Africa to the World.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________    

Jamaica’s Data Protection Act will be coming into effect on 1 December 2023, but myths and misconceptions have persisted. With Grace Lindo, an attorney at law at Carter Lindo in Jamaica, we tackle some of the misconceptions along with exploring compliance in a variety of different scenarios. Among other things, Grace also discusses the potential implications and obligations under the new dispensation:    *  When using certain technologies and platforms, such as WhatsApp, Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT in the workplace;   *  In the ethical use of data, particularly for research;   *  In direct marketing; and   *  When data breaches occur.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________    

In our October 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Dr Claire Craig, of Trinidad and Tobago and Director of Research of CaribNOG, and Jean Marie Altema of Haïti and profIT Development Consulting, the panel discusses:    *  ransomware attacks and the role of stakeholders;   *  the intersection of music and technology; and   *  the potential and challenges of crowdfunding in the Caribbean.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________      

Although artificial intelligence (AI) has begun to transform the workplace, it has the potential to have an even greater impact on our societies by helping us address many of the development challenges that countries, such as those in the Caribbean region, need to address. Eldon Marks, of V75 Inc. and TrueSelph Inc. in Guyana, is back with us again to share his thoughts on, among other things:    *  how AI has evolved since our first conversation in 2019;   *  why Caribbean countries are not part of the global AI conversation;   *  ways in which Caribbean countries can capitalise on AI4D; and   *  what is needed for Guyana to become a powerhouse in AI, or more broadly, tech.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

Thanks to the growing prominence of Artificial intelligence (AI), .ai, the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Anguilla has experienced an exponential increase in the take-up of .ai domains. However, Caribbean countries have not been aggressive in increasing the take-up and use of their ccTLDs, though there are numerous opportunities to be had. With longstanding players in the global Internet Governance space, Lance Hinds, of Guyana, and Carlton Samuels, of Jamaica, we discuss:    *  the benefits of using ccTLDs;   *  why some countries enjoy a large number of active ccTLDs;   *  reasons why Caribbean countries have not sought to foster greater use of their ccTLDs; and    *  ways in which Caribbean countries can increase the attractiveness and consequently the value of their ccTLDs.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

As CARICOM Member States move closer to a Single Market and Economy (CSME), the role of the private sector will become increasingly important to manifest all the benefits anticipated from this massive regional transformation. With Dr Patrick Antoine, the Chief Executive Officer and Technical Director of the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), we discuss the CPSO and CSME, including:   *  How businesses, especially small and micro businesses, benefit from the work of the CPSO;   *  What is the Twenty-Five by 2025 Initiative, and can the stated target be achieved by 2025;   *  How he sees ICT facilitating the realisation of the Twenty-Five by 2025 target;   *  And why haven’t Caribbean organisations more fully integrated technology into our operations.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our October 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Christelle Vaval, a lawyer in Haiti, and Steven Williams, of Data Privacy and Management Advisory Services in Barbados, the panel discusses:     *  Digital inequality in Caribbean tech entrepreneurship;     *  Trademarks protection in domain names;   *  Are we still underprepared for cyberattacks?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Continuing with our recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we have another instalment in our longstanding Expert Insight series on cyber threats and security, but with a twist! Joining us are Dr Keith Nurse, of the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts Trinidad and Tobago and Kristerbella Sookdeo, of Fortinet, to chat about cybersecurity awareness. Among other things, we discuss:   *  the common cyber threats or incidents in the Caribbean region;   *  the current state of cybersecurity awareness;   *  the implications of the “financialisation of the global economy” on the security landscape; and   *  how to tackle the rate of change in the security space and the continual need to build awareness.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Digital Transformation. An overused term that still seems to be misunderstood. With Christopher Reckord and Trevor Forrest, the authors of the new book “Successful Digital Transformation: Your World, Your Business, Your Life… Reimagined”, we discuss the key elements in a digital transformation process that must be addressed to guarantee success, along with:   *  whether Caribbean leaders are thinking big enough for their organisations and the impact on the digital transformation effort;   *  why MSMEs may actually benefit the most from digitally transforming their business; and   *  how organisations can better embrace innovation, which is critical to successful digital transformation.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Worldwide, October is commemorated as Cyber Security Awareness Month. As part of our longstanding Expert Insight series on cyber threats and security, we get a truly regional perspective on the subject. With Dale Joseph, of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), we discuss, among other things:   *  what has been going on in the wider Caribbean region, with regard to cybersecurity threats and incidents;     *  the priority areas of the CARICOM Cyber Security and Cybercrime Action Plan;   *  the degree to which CARICOM IMPACS engages the private sector; and   *  fostering more cybersecurity intelligence-sharing and collaboration in Caribbean countries.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

For our September 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Esmeralda Levens of BearingPoint Caribbean in Curaçao, and Andrew Olton of Cryptcore in Trinidad and Tobago, the panel discusses:    *  Why the future of finance is global;   *  Is the Caribbean region truly a home for digital nomads? and,   *  Is our love affair with AI already over?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Although slavery and colonialism may seem far removed from the 21st century and our current lives, there have been growing concerns about digital colonialism. With Ingrid Riley of Silicon Caribe and Matthew Cowen of dgtlfutures, we start a conversation on digital colonialism in which, among other things, we discuss:   *  what digital colonialism is and why we ought to give it greater attention;   *  what is happening in the Caribbean tech entrepreneurship space and how it has evolved over the years; and   *  how the region can better navigate and change the narrative that often fosters digital colonialism.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Digital resilience is a topic that has not been comprehensively explored generally, and more so in the Caribbean region, though it is relevant and should be actively developed in organisations and at home. With Natalie Maharaj, the Director of the ICT Services Division of the Ministry of Public Administration, Trinidad and Tobago, we discuss among other things:   *  the difference between digital resilience and cybersecurity;   *  how organisations can become more digitally resilient;   *  why psychology and technology are both crucial in digital parenting; and   *  ways in which we as individuals can be more digitally resilient.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Business intelligence (BI), like data analytics, does not seem to be as prominent these days as data science and Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, data analytics and BI are separate disciplines from data science and AI, with the former still being especially relevant when trying to improve organisational performance and success. With Raquel Seville of BI Brainz, we get a primer on BI, and among other things, she highlights:   *  misconceptions people have about BI;   *  important skills individuals who want to work in BI should possess; and   *  basic activities and tools MSMEs can use to begin to tap into the benefits of BI.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Without a doubt, technology has transformed the workplace, but it has also raised several issues that have not yet been satisfactorily resolved. Lois Walters, President of the Human Resource Management Association of Jamaica, discusses the impact of technology in the workplace, including:    *  the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;   *  remote and hybrid work arrangements;   *  re-skilling, upskilling and continuing professional development; along with   *  how we can better navigate achieving a work-life balance.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our August 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Simone Pasmore, the Chief Executive Officer of Webstylze in Barbados, and Dr Lyndell St Ville, the Chief Technology Officer of Datashore in Saint Lucia, the panel discusses:    *  Technology-related bias;   *  AI for accessibility for the Differently Abled;   *  Worldcoin in the Caribbean, would it be a good or bad thing?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

With artificial intelligence (AI) capturing the minds and hearts of millions of users worldwide, chatbots have been getting little to no visibility these days. With Kern Elliott, of iGovTT in Trinidad and Tobago, we discuss chatbots and AI, and among other things:   *  which one is better;   * some of the assumptions people tend to make about AI and chatbots;   * balancing the growing emphasis on privacy and data protection in an increasingly Ai-driven world; and   * what organisations ought to include in their AI policies.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

With the growing importance and visibility that subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity and data protection, have been receiving, Caribbean countries and the region are being challenged to adopt clear, and ideally harmonised, positions, so they can be heard in global Internet Governance conversations. With Nigel Cassimire of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, we discuss, among other things,   *  the internet-related issues and developments that have occurred since 2022 when he was last on the Podcast;     *  the upcoming Caribbean Internet Governance Forum event; and   *  why a single individual can make a difference in the Internet Governance space.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

With the successful enactment of the Nigeria Startup Act, Nigeria is positioning itself to be not only a hotbed of tech innovation but also the home of tech companies that have a global impact. In our conversation with Oswald Osaretin Guobadia, the Former Senior Special Assistant on Digital Transformation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we discuss, among other things:     *  Nigeria’s business landscape;   *  the importance of co-creation;   * why trying to 'leapfrog' can be a misguided approach; and   *  what Caribbean countries can learn from the Nigerian experience.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Privacy and data protection have been gaining traction globally, and even across the Caribbean region. Rishi Maharaj, the Founder and Managing Director of Privicy Advisory Services, joins us to discuss privacy and data protection, along with the emerging concept of ‘data ethics’. Our conversation explores, among other things:   *  the difference between data protection and data ethics;   *  the challenges he has observed as organisations reframe themselves to become more privacy and data protection-centric; and   *  his thoughts on the class action lawsuit filed against OpenAI alleging that it engaged in theft by scraping data and content from internet users.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our July 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Bianca Welds, Digital Innovation Manager of the VM Group in Jamaica, and Chad Fraser, the Founder of Sonover Inc. in Grenada, the panel discusses:    *  Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models, how can the Caribbean business and education sectors extract value from these technologies; and thereafter,    *  how can Caribbean countries better nurture software development?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________    

 In the first episode of our new series, Tech in Africa, we discuss with the Secretaries General of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), John Omo, and of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), Rodney Taylor:   *  the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between their organisations with a view to strengthening the partnership between them;     *  how digital diplomacy works between countries and regions of diverse sizes, economies and challenges;   *  projects or initiatives that could be implemented that leverage the MoU; and   *  outputs or outcomes the ATU and CTU would like achieved by the end of the current term of the MoU.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Cyber insurance is no longer as alien as it had been just a few years ago, but the threat landscape is incredibly dynamic thus causing the cyber insurance industry to continually adjust and redefine its posture. Although we spoke with Max Pragnell, of Gallagher Insurance Brokers, just about a year ago, a lot has changed. In this conversation, he discusses, among other things:   *  key changes that have occurred in the cybersecurity and cyber insurance space;     * how cascading failures (across organisations, subsidiaries or business units, for example) from a single attack are being handled; and   * “data breach insurance” and what cyber insurance coverage may be available.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

Increasingly, there is a concern that Caribbean countries and their citizens are losing their grip on their cultural identity thanks to the overwhelming influx of digital media and content which we are now accessing from as early as toddler age. Multi-hyphenate global thought leader, Dr Kris Rampersad, discusses digital deletion and what Caribbean countries need to do for their cultural survival and ultimately, preserve their own unique identities.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Rich in natural resources, the Co‑operative Republic of Guyana has been experiencing an economic boom in recent years, whilst also trying to ensure more equitable access to telecoms services, particularly to its citizens that live in its hinterland. Dela Britton, Chairperson of the Public Utilities Commission (Guyana) discusses, among other things: Guyana’s telecoms sector; how Guyana can narrow the digital divide; and how she would like to see the Commission and Guyana’s telecoms sector evolve.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our May 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Communications Strategist, Liselle Yorke, and Tech Consultant, Amit Uttamchandani, the panel discusses: What does the new digital landscape mean for Caribbean fiction? e-Government, and the delivery of government services online in the Caribbean, and What will it take for the Caribbean to become a cashless society?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Continuing with our Fintech in the Caribbean series, we explore the fintech space in the Dutch Caribbean, which comprises Aruba, Bonaire Curaçao and Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius and Saba, and are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. With Senior Financial Policy Advisor, Emilio Kalmera, and Founder and CEO of Girasol Payments Solutions, Marwan Rozier, they discussed among other things: the fintech scene in Curaçao and Sint Maarten;  the wider tech entrepreneurship landscape; and  the biggest challenge that tech entrepreneurs in their home countries are experiencing.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

The recently published ECLAC digital inclusion study has been getting some attention across the Caribbean region, as countries continue to grapple with how to narrow the widening digital divide. With ECLAC digital inclusion study Consultant, Kwesi Prescod and international Economist and ICT4D Consultant, Yacine Khelladi, the findings of the ECLAC study are discussed. However, the conversation then veers to the role of the telecoms regulator and the telcos in addressing digital inclusion, along with the impact of the human, social and economic challenges on digital inclusion and vice versa.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Also, connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, Sponsorship Opportunities! The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Although countries worldwide may be moving quickly to deploy 5G technology, the major Caribbean internet network carriers have indicated that they will not be doing so in the foreseeable future. Marc Kneppers and Sarah McNeill, of TTG in the Cayman Islands, discuss 5G and the company’s innovation grants programme, and answer questions such as: What could be the benefit to Caribbean countries of 5G? Whether Caribbean internet carriers should focus on strengthening their 4G LTE networks before deploying 5G? And how Caribbean countries might still be able to position themselves to experience or leverage 5G, despite the posture of their internet carriers?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our May 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Brittney Samuels and Janice Alexander, of UX Designer Network Jamaica, the panel discusses: What does it mean to become a digital society? The importance of local context when implementing technology in the Caribbean; and The digital customer experience problems in the Caribbean region.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

When it comes to making payments online, the convenience and ease of use of digital transactions have made them increasingly popular, and even essential, in today’s environment. Continuing with our Fintech in the Caribbean series, Eldred F Garcia, of First Atlantic Commerce (FAC), gives us an excellent primer on credit card payments. He also outlines the main types of payment fraud that FAC’s customers have been experiencing, and suggests how Caribbean MSMEs can participate more fully in the digital payments space, noting their limited resources.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In the second instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2023, and with a new guest, Edward Millington of CariSec Global, he discusses, among other things: what’s been happening in the cybersecurity space and the changes that have occurred in the threat landscape; how countries can better manage threats to their critical infrastructure and services, which are often under-resourced; and where organisations are making cybersecurity investments, versus where they should actually be investing.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

According to Grand View Research, the value of the global blockchain technology market was estimated at USD 10.02 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a staggering compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 87.7% between 2023 and 2030. Director of Regulatory Compliance of the FinTech Association of Trinidad and Tobago (FinTechTT), Alexander Gafoor, helps us to explore some of the legal issues surrounding blockchain technology including, why you still may need a real-world contract even if there is a smart contract; some of the legal issues associated with NFTs; reconciling the transparency and immutability of blockchain technology with data privacy legislation; and the valuing of digital assets, particularly with respect to taxes.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our April 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Charlie Ann St. Cyr, a Social Impact Strategist and Founder of Girls With Roots, and Gisselle Ramsaran, a Digital Marketing Systems Strategist, the panel discusses:  AI and its impact on content development; how technology can contribute to inequality and threaten the rights and well-being of girls in the Caribbean; and the quality of telecoms services across the region.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Globally, the business process outsourcing (BPO) segment of the wider outsourcing market continues to experience exponential growth, by as much as 9% year-on-year – increasing by one percentage point four years ago. Kirk Laughlin, of Nearshore Americas, discusses, among other things: how the Caribbean outsourcing industry has performed since 2020; how technological advancements such as AI and automation are affecting the outsourcing industry; and whether the Caribbean region is still competitive and attractive, noting the other locations worldwide that have emerged that are vying for outsourcing business.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

With Karel Douglas, the Executive Officer, Legal and Enforcement, of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT), Cheryl Hector Fontenelle, the Acting Managing Director of the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL), which oversees telecommunications regulation in Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Ansord Hewitt, the Director General of the Office of Utilities Regulation, in Jamaica, we discuss the evolution of telecoms regulation in the Caribbean region, and how regulation needs to evolve to accommodate the technology advancements that have been occurring and better position us for the future.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Lynk, a digital wallet, is the only approved wallet for Jamaica's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), JAM-DEX. Lynk’s Chief Product Officer, John-Matthew Sinclair joins us on the Podcast to discuss Lynk and its current offerings, as well as: Reasons for the seemingly slow adoption of JAM-DEX in Jamaica The issue of financial inclusion in the Caribbean region and the barriers to entry beyond the AML and KYC requirements that must be followed, and New product offerings that are coming on stream, and what the future holds for Lynk.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our March 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, IT Specialist, Larissa Martin and eCaribbean Limited’s Managing Director, Rodney Browne, the panel discusses:  The state of Innovation/R&D in the Caribbean; Why is payment technology still limited in the Caribbean? And where are the Female Tech Leaders in the Caribbean?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In the first instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2023, and one again with Sean Slattery of Caribbean Solutions Lab, he discusses, among other things: the changes in the threat landscape that occurred in 2022; the impact and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the security space; how the emerging cyber insurance space has affected how organisations approach security; and three things organisations should be doing in 2023 to improve their network/IT security.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In recognition of International Women’s Day, and with Dr Letetia Addison, Shannon-Rae Hackett and Riana Kandhai of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine campus and Women in Data Science (WiDS), the Trinidad and Tobago chapter, they discuss, among other things: the difference between data analytics and data science; their own journeys to pursue careers in the STEM and ICT fields, and how their perspective on their career has evolved; and why organisations have been dragging their feet to integrate data science/data analytics into their operations.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been shaping our lives for years, such as by influencing our likes and preferences, in addition to trying to provide us with very personalised support. However, it has only been in recent months that the mass consumer has been gaining an appreciation of the power and potential of AI. Data and Advanced Analytics leader at PwC Caribbean, Kevan Rajaram, is introducing new and different angles to our conversation on AI, and discusses among other things:   some of the ways AI will change the workplace; the extent to which technology is pushing against boundaries we (as humans) might inherently have; could we allow a machine to lead us; and what might there be the impact of AI from a country perspective.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Privacy and data protection have been gaining visibility globally. Even here in the Caribbean region, more countries that had not addressed the issue, are developing the requisite policies and legislation. Digital law and policy lawyer, Bartlett Morgan, joins us again to give us an update on privacy and data protection since our last conversation in 2018, and discusses among other things: some of the emerging issues around AI and privacy; the balance between hyper-personalisation and privacy; and key trends he is seeing in the privacy and data protection space.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our February 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, IT Systems Administrator, Halle Johnson and Business Coach and former Advisory Council Member of the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN), Kerrie-Ann Vassall-Richards, the panel discusses:  Digitisation of the building applications process; Is the Caribbean ready for work-from-home / remote worker culture? And the security of our critical resources/sectors.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

To a considerable degree, Caribbean countries are eager to position themselves as leading financial technology (fintech) locations to drive investment and their continued economic growth. However, will the current efforts yield the results envisaged? With Developmental Economist, Dr Justin Ram, we discuss the impact fintech could have on the Caribbean region and economy, and among other things, Justin offers insights into: How we might foster more tech entrepreneurship; Whether the FTX collapse is sending the wrong signals to the world about the fintech industry in the Caribbean; The real opportunity for CBDCs in the region, and with respect to fostering digital transformation; and The fintech initiatives and projects the region should be implementing that could have a real impact.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Circling back to earlier conversations we had on innovation in 2019, we caught up with Professor Patrick Hosein of The University of the West Indies and of TTLAB (www.lab.tt), the research laboratory he created in Trinidad and Tobago. Accompanied by two members of the TTLAB research team, Inzamam Rahaman and Nicholas Chamansingh, we discussed, among other things: TTLAB and some of its current projects; what might be the Caribbean region’s value proposition when compared to Silicon Valley; ChatGPT; and why AI will not replace humans anytime soon.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our January 2023 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Chartered Accountant and a Certified Information Systems Auditor, Allison James, and Matthew Cowen of dgtlfutures, the panel discusses: The transformation of the IT profession; Is the world going sour on big tech?   Where do we see Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning going?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/  Join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/qnUtj    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Continuing with our series on fintech in the Caribbean region, we talk with Miguel Adwin of Fimi Market Inc., which is championing an important social good: inclusion. In our conversation Miguel shares, among other things, his entrepreneurship journey that resulted in Fimi Market; how the Caribbean can better leverage emerging technologies; what opportunities we should be focussing on; and some of his longer-term plans and goals for Fimi Market.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Connect with us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ICTPulse/  Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ictpulse/  Twitter –  https://twitter.com/ICTPulse  LinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/company/3745954/admin/    Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2022, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Carlton Samuels and Telojo (Telly) Valerie Onu, the panel discussed the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2022, and what might be in store in 2023.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________  

In the final instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2022, and with Obika Gellineau of KPMG in Trinidad and Tobago, he discusses, among other things: what may have happened in the Massy Stores hacking incident; whether organisations are focusing on risk, reputation, and business continuity in how they approach cybersecurity; and three key things organisations should be doing in 2023 to improve their network/IT security posture.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Cryptocurrencies and the wider crypto space have been receiving considerable attention due to the recent downturn in the market and the collapse of many crypto businesses. In this episode, we go back to basics with George Connolly, of OneLedger Technology Inc., Bitcoin enthusiast and serial Internet entrepreneur, Rohan Smith and guest cohost, Matthew Cowen, and discussed, among other things:  Is the value of crypto (somehow) hinged on fiat?  What happened with FTX, and what might the implications be for The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean? And what might regulation of the crypto space look like?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

In our November 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Amit Uttamchandani, of CaribbeanSignal.com, and Internet Service Provider and Network Infrastructure Professional, Brent Mc Intosh, the panel discusses: Automation software and the threats and opportunities for the region; and Building and developing the Caribbean's Critical Internet Infrastructure: one IXP at a time.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   _______________

Although just five years old, Caribbean payment service provider, WiPay, has expanded its operations considerably across the Caribbean region, and into the US and Africa. In our third conversation with WiPay CEO, Aldwyn Wayne, he discusses some of the recent developments in the WiPay ecosystem, along with: how the newly launched Volt network works; why is WiPay establishing its own bank; what he sees as the opportunity for Caribbean businesses in Africa; and his thoughts on how the region’s fintech space has been evolving.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

Although data is considered a valuable resource for organisations, its value comes from the insights and intelligence that can be produced once it is collated, processed and analysed.  Information Management professional, Liselle Ramcharan-Briscoe, discusses among other things: the types of data that could benefit from a data warehousing solution; when an organisation should consider moving to a data warehouse configuration; privacy and data protection issues that still must be considered; and why more organisations may actually need a data warehouse.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.    

The concept of an open and equal internet for everyone, known as network (or net) neutrality, has been a topic of longstanding debate. But recently, it has been reported that South Korea and the European Union, in particular, are on the verge of striking down net neutrality, which is likely to cause other countries to revisit their stance on the issue. Former telecoms/ICT regulator, Embert Charles, and tech expert, Trevor Forrest, discuss whether Caribbean countries should adopt a similar stance to that which seems to be emerging in other jurisdictions.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ---  

Without a doubt, Caribbean countries are going digital. But it is unclear how much progress has been made and where there are still gaps that need to be filled. USAID recently published the results of a digital ecosystem study it conducted across 11 Caribbean countries. We speak with researchers, Chelceé Brathwaite and Matthew Cowen, and USAID regional head, Mansfield Blackwood, on the study’s findings and recommendations, and what should be the next step for Caribbean countries.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ---  

In our October 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Miguel Adwin, of Fimi Markets Inc. in the United States, and IT expert, Garfield Gordon, the panel discusses: how Caribbean tech can leverage the AfriCaribbean link; and a quick recap of the “forced” (digital) transformation of the past 30 months.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------

Continuing our exploration of fintech in the Caribbean region, we speak with Davinia Bain, of Crypto Isle in The Bahamas. In our conversation, Davinia shares: what has been happening in the fintech and digital assets space in The Bahamas; her thoughts on the prospect of The Bahamas being blacklisted by the European Union; Crypto Isle’s expansion plans in the region; and details on the Crypto Isle accelerator that will soon be launched in partnership with Kanoo Pays and Draper University.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------

To some degree, the CARICOM Single ICT Space has been gaining some traction, as it moves to accelerate the activities outlined in the vision and roadmap for this important regional initiative. In this episode, and with a guest co-host, Gerard Best, we are joined, once again, by Jennifer Britton, of the CARICOM Secretariat, to share with us the latest achievements and developments, along with key challenges and pain points that are slowing down the efforts to realise the Single ICT Space.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------

In our September 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Samantha Sheoprashad, of Trifinity Solutions in Guyana, and Steven Williams, of Sunisle Technology Solution in Barbados, the panel discusses:   gender inequality for women in the Caribbean tech industry; and the potential impact of data privacy in the Caribbean.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode?  Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are two of the fastest growing areas in tech, and they are transforming how we live and work. AI and robotics entrepreneur and enthusiast, Matthew Stone, discusses, among other things: how AI and robotics are replacing current roles in the job market, whilst also opening up new opportunities; the skills and jobs that are currently in demand, and how Caribbean organisations start to position themselves to leverage AI; and how he was able to pull off the autonomous drones light show that was one of the highlights of Jamaica’s 60th independence anniversary celebrations.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------

Regular meet-ups and get-togethers are at the core of tech communities worldwide, but they can be a challenge to maintain and sustain over the long term. Often, they lose their momentum and their vibrant participation, and may just limp along to an inevitable end. In this podcast episode, we speak with Ingrid Riley, the Founder of Kingston BETA, a tech start-up community event that has been around since 2007, and Jermaine Henry, the current Curator of Kingston BETA, on among other things:  Kingston BETA and its impact on Jamaica’s tech start-up community; why Kingston BETA events are being held in person; and the essential ingredients for a meet-up's longevity.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------  

Regulatory technology (or regtech) is expected to be worth over USD 87 billion by 2028, but it is an underdeveloped fintech segment in the Caribbean region. Regtech expert, Jennifer Potter, gives us a primer on regtech, and discusses, among other things:   the other industries, besides banking and financial services, in which regtech can be applied;  how regtech can improve the customer experience regarding the Know-Your-Customer (KYC) rules and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance obligation; and key things organisations should consider before they decide to integrate regtech into their operations.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ------  

The Commonwealth of Dominica, like many Caribbean countries, is giving more attention to developing its digital economy. However, unlike some countries, it has established a dedicated unit within the Government to focus on this area. Robert Tonge, the Coordinator of the Digital Economy of Dominica, joins us in this episode to discuss, among other things:  What Dominica envisages as its digital economy, and what it considers its priorities; How Dominica sees its digital economy complementing other parts of its national identity and traditional economy; How soon critical milestones, or inflexion points, in the country’s digital economy roadmap will be realised.     The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.   ---------

The Commonwealth of Dominica, like many Caribbean countries, is giving more attention to developing its digital economy. However, unlike some countries, it has established a dedicated unit within the Government to focus on this area. Robert Tonge, the Coordinator of the Digital Economy of Dominica, joins us in this episode to discuss, among other things:  What Dominica envisages as its digital economy, and what it considers its priorities; How Dominica sees its digital economy complementing other parts of its national identity and traditional economy; How soon critical milestones, or inflexion points, in the country’s digital economy roadmap will be realised.     The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ---------

In our August 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Dr Denise Charles and Gerard Best, the panel discusses: parenting digital natives; and digital literacy and an emerging Caribbean digital culture: threat or promise?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details. ---------

This August, at least three Internet Governance-related events are taking place in the Caribbean region: the 18th Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF), the Caribbean Youth IGF (CYIGF) Workshop, and the very first Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Internet Governance Forum (IGF). We speak with Maureen Hilyard, co-Chair of the Dynamic Coalition of Small Island States in the Internet Economy, and Nigel Cassimire, the Coordinator of the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum on: the Internet Governance (IG) landscape in the Caribbean and the Pacific Islands region: key IG issues of which we should be aware; and what is in store for us at the CIGF, the CYIGF and the SIDS IGF.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

Ensuring that we have a digitally-skilled population should be a top priority for the Caribbean region, as it is an area that requires comprehensive and long-term planning in order to realise measurable and meaningful improvement. Barbara Reynolds (PhD) and Carlton Samuels, the Co-Chairs of the CARICOM Digital Skills Taskforce discuss, among other things, the work of the Taskforce, some of the challenges that may need to be addressed to advance digital skills development in the region, and why we might less digitally skilled than we think we are!   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.

Decentralised autonomous organisations or DAOs are one of the faster-growing segments of the blockchain space. Donald O’Brian Porter, the Founder of the recently launched Carib DAO explains, among other things, how DAOs work; the products or services Carib DAO will be bringing to market; the ways in which an individual can verify the authenticity of the DAO; and three (3) questions someone should ask before joining a DAO.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

In our July 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Ian Mitchell and Vivion Scully, the panel discusses: What do we need to be ready for e-commerce in the OECS? And in what ways has the BPO sector contributed to Jamaica’s economy?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.

In May 2022, FramePerfect, a team of University of Guyana graduates, won the coveted 5G for Change Webby Award. Malik and Shomari Williams of FramePerfect join us to discuss: their Webby 5G for Change Hackathon experience; what are some takeaways from participating in the hackathon; and what Caribbean countries can do to better foster and support tech innovation.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.

Across the Caribbean region, considerable attention is being paid to financial inclusion and fintech, with digital identity (ID) taking a back seat. However, it has been argued in some quarters that digital IDs are a foundation element in countries’ digital transformation and fintech efforts. Trevor Forrest, of 876 Solutions, sheds some light on digital IDs, including: Why is it becoming increasingly important to have a digital ID?  What are the benefits of having a digital ID?  What can countries do to develop trust in digital ID?  And what is the potential and what could be the implications of heightened surveillance via digital IDs?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

Electronic sports (esports) is a growing and potentially lucrative segment of the video games industry with relatively few players in the Caribbean region. Dexton Graham, the Lead Tournament Organiser of the Jamaica eSports Initiative and the Founder of Electronic Sports Jamaica discusses: how big esports is in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean; key challenges Caribbean gamers and esports enthusiasts face; how local groups and federations are handling the concerns about health risks and disorders linked to gaming; and the efforts that are being made to grow esports in the region, in terms of the number of players and the prize money offered.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)    Enjoyed the episode? Do rate the show and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

With the upsurge in cyber incidents and breaches, increasingly, organisations are considering whether they need cyber insurance. Max Pragnell, of Gallagher Insurance Brokers, discusses the good, the bad and everything in between on cyber insurance including:   When is cyber insurance a good idea? What kind of coverage is usually offered? What are the typical requirements to secure coverage? Which incidents are covered and which ones are usually excluded from coverage?    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell   ---------------- Also, *Sponsorship Opportunities!* The ICT Pulse Podcast is accepting sponsors! Would you like to partner with us to produce an episode of the podcast, or highlight a product or service to our audience? Do get in touch at [email protected] with “Podcast Sponsorship” as the subject, or via social media @ictpulse, for more details.  

In our June 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Lateefah Smellie and Dr Lyndell St, Ville, the panel discusses: Tech communities, a potent vehicle for developing tech talent in the Caribbean; and Silicon island, creating and coordinating the right environment to nurture a technology culture for the Caribbean.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez   Sponsors: ProjectCalls: Take advantage of the sale on its Full Access Subscription Plan, which would give you unlimited access to the Caribbean projects and tenders published on its platform. Sale ends 30 June 2022.   

In our third Expert Insights update for 2022, Cybersecurity Consultant, David Gittens shares his thoughts on, among other things: key trends in the current threat landscape; the Conti ransomware and what Caribbean countries can learn from the Costa Rican experience; what does Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) mean; and the top three things businesses should be doing in 2022 to improve their network/IT security.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

With Sébastien Celestine, of GuadeloupeTech, and Emmanuel Joseph, of LAKOUDIGITAL and MartiniqueTech, we discuss tech entrepreneurship in the French Caribbean. Some of the areas we examine are: the tech entrepreneurship landscape in Guadeloupe and Martinique;  the investor landscape; and what could be done to foster greater collaboration between tech entrepreneurs in the French and the English-speaking Caribbean.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Continuing our Fintech in the Caribbean series, and with Dr. Jan Schröder of CaribCoin, and Rodney Taylor of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, we discuss fintech in the region, the opportunities and challenges that exist, along with on digital currencies, CBDCs and CaribCoin, a regional stablecoin that is currently being developed, which has the potential to transform trade and the wider Caribbean business landscape.    The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Continuing with our Fintech in the Caribbean series, we are focussing on fintech in Trinidad and Tobago, with Maria Daniel, President of the FinTech Association of Trinidad and Tobago. In our conversation, Maria:  highlights the Association and discusses the state of fintech in Trinidad and Tobago, key challenges that have been hindering fintech development; and where she would like to see fintech in Trinidad and Tobago in the next 2 to 3 years.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In our May 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Liselle Yorke and Lianne McNaughton, the panel discusses:   *  the growing impact of ransomware attacks in the Caribbean; and   *  agile and servant leadership, and the critical role they play in creating healthy and high performing teams and cultures.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Starting and running a business is a test in resilience, and learning how to overcome the inevitable challenges that will emerge. Monique Powell, Founder and CEO of QuickCart, an e-commerce and logistics provider in Jamaica, shares, among other things:   *  her entrepreneurial journey;    *  how she navigated the e-commerce-related challenges that most start-ups and MSMEs in the Caribbean region face; plus   *  what’s next for both QuickCart and for Monique.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

We are starting a deep dive into the Caribbean tech start-up and entrepreneurship ecosystem. With Selwyn Cambridge, the Founder and Executive Director of TEN Habitat in Barbados, and Anuskha Varsha Sonai, the President of Creative Tech Hub Caribbean in Suriname, we discuss, among other things:   *  the tech entrepreneurship landscape in their respective countries;    *  the biggest challenge that tech entrepreneurs are experiencing;   *  the posture of investors and the ease with which tech entrepreneurs can secure funding.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In our April 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Simone Pasmore and Robert Forrester, the panel discusses:   *  The cost of web and app development, what should one expect; and   *  Access, the Holy Grail of ICT Development in the Caribbean region.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

To commemorate our 200th episode, the tables are turned, and Ingrid Riley of SiliconCaribe interviews Michele Marius, Host and Producer of the ICT Pulse Podcast. They discuss, among other things: the beginnings of the ICT Pulse Podcast; Is there really a ‘Digital Caribbean’; and How can Caribbean governments better support tech entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The traditional commercial banks are the bedrock of countries’ financial services sector, but they seem to be lagging behind and are out of step with the new and exciting developments in financial technology (fintech). With Wendy Delmar, the Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Association of Banks (CAB), and in this the latest instalment in our series on fintech in the Caribbean region, we discuss: *  how the CAB and its members view fintech; *  why securing an online merchant account is still a challenge, especially for digital businesses; and *  why commercial banks are blocking their customers from purchasing crypto.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

Even if we do not realise it, we are interacting with Artificial Intelligence, or AI, every day, and although it may be making our lives more efficient and productive, there are several ethics issues that ought to be considered. With Gratiana Fu, of DAI, we discuss many of these issues, including: Why are we delegating critical decisions to machines? Who is responsible for AI, when it makes mistakes? Is there privacy in an AI world? And, how do we stay in control of a complex intelligent system?   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

We have all heard the term ‘digital economy’ and that countries worldwide are trying to find ways to foster its development. However, what does it mean if a country has a digital economy? In our conversation with Chelceé Brathwaite and Yacine Khelladi, we start to tackle that very question, along with: the anticipated impact or value of having a digital economy; the implications of digital skills, digital literacy and digital inclusion; and key challenges to Caribbean countries in more fully realising their digital economies.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

In our March 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Amit Uttamchandani and Chad Fraser, the panel discusses: Russia-Ukraine War and potential impact in the Caribbean from a cyber perspective; and thereafter, Web3 and its potential for creating new opportunities in the Caribbean.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In the second instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2022, and with Deon Olton, of the Caribbean Cyber Security Centre, he discusses, among other things: the changes in the threat landscape that occurred since the pandemic; what should be the primary goal of cybersecurity in organisations; and three things organisations should be doing in 2022 to improve their network/IT security.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Decentralised Finance, or DeFi, is taking the world by storm, and seems to be among the fastest growing fintech segments. Kimberly Adams, of Bridge Network, helps us to better understand: what DeFi is and ways in which it can be leveraged; the impact DeFi could have on the Caribbean region; and at the same time, how ready the Caribbean region is for DeFI.   The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/)  Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Web 3.0 is the next iteration of the World Wide Web, which is expected to change not only the dynamics of the business of the internet, but also how we, as users, interact with and leverage that medium. Costanza Gallo, the Ecosystem Manager at Swarm, discusses Web 3.0 and among other things: how it is expected to change the current power dynamics of the internet; policy issues that still need to be addresses with regard to Web 3.0; and how far away we are from Web 3.0 being a reality.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

In the first instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2022, and with Sean Slattery of Caribbean Solutions Lab, he discusses, among other things: the changes in the threat landscape that occurred in 2021; cyber insurance, zero-trust models, what are the pros and cons of security-as-a-service; and three things organisations should be doing in 2022 to improve their network/IT security.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In our February 2022 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Bianca Welds and Naphtale Nunes, the panel discusses, Is Jamaica ready to be the innovation hub of the Caribbean, or are we missing some steps? And thereafter, the potential impact of Microsoft cloud retail product to the Caribbean region.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Continuing with our deep dive into the Caribbean region’s financial technology (fintech) space, we discuss blockchain technology, which is key technology that is underpins many fintech products and services.  In this episode, we chat with Stefen Deleveaux about: the Caribbean Blockchain Alliance, for which he is President; blockchain technology and how it is being applied in the Caribbean region; and what we could expect of blockchain technology in the region within the next 2—3 years.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Do you have what it takes to be a digital nomad? We discuss the digital nomad experience with the following intrepid travellers: Juleen Gentles, who is from Jamaica, but spoke with us from Ghana; Marsiya Issah who is from Ghana, but has been living in Barbados; and Andres Phillips, who is from Barbados, but recently ended a 10-month stint in Colombia and Mexico. During the episode, Andres, Juleen and Marsiya share their journey to becoming digital nomads and some of their experiences on the ground, especially with respect to internet access, and language. They also share some advice to those who might be thinking of becoming digital nomads.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!     Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing: Michele Marius

Over the past two or so years, fintech, or financial technology, has been growing in the Caribbean. In the first of our new series on Fintech in the Caribbean, and with financial innovator, private banker and serial entrepreneur, Telly Valerie Onu, we discuss: the state of fintech in the Caribbean region; key challenges that might be affecting innovation and development (supply), and adoption and take-up (demand); and the areas or segments that hold the best opportunities in the Caribbean region.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is not as far removed from your life as you think. If you use Siri, Alexa, or any of the other virtual assistants, or if you have an Apple Watch, for example, you are engaging with AI. With Matthew Cowen, of dgtlfutures, we discuss the opportunities of AI, along with a number of issues that have begun to emerge, including: bias and discrimination; the impact of AI on the workforce and the future of work; privacy and surveillance; the ethics of AI; security; and AI for Social Good.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In this our January 2022 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, Mylène Colmar and Andrew Olton, the panel discusses:  what are essential tools, formats, subjects, trends for Caribbean content (media) creators in 2022; and thereafter, opportunities in fintech within the Caribbean.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

The instances of online abuse and harassment are growing worldwide, but remain underreported and with very little support for victims, particularly in the Caribbean region. Ashell Forde, the Founder and President of No! to Online Abuse and Harassment (NOAH): discusses the state of online abuse and harassment in the region; along with the successes that NOAH has been able to realise to date; and even provides advice to adults, and to parents of children who might be experiencing abuse or harassment online.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2021, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Ingrid Riley and Telojo (Telly) Valerie Onu, the panel discussed the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2021, and what might be in store for 2022.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The internet is a channel through which considerable opportunities can be leveraged, but it can be argued that it is still underdeveloped in the Caribbean region. In a long-awaited follow-up conversation with Shernon Osepa, of the Internet Society, he shares his thoughts on the state of the internet in the region, along with what he believes are the region’s greatest internet-related challenges, and what should be the region’s priorities moving forward.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

The Caribbean region is awash with art and artists. Sadly, most them have little or no visibility beyond their home country, and struggle to make a living solely from their art. Sade Barrow-Browne is the Founder of FineArt.gy, an online art gallery that is showcasing the work of Guyana’s artists and creatives. In our conversation with Sade, she discusses, among other things: the impetus behind creating FineArt.gy; how the platform is leveraging technology; the challenges of building an online art platform; and whether FineArt.gy intends to get into the NFT space in the future.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In this our November 2021 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, Claire Craig and Matthew Cowen, the panel discusses: making Caribbean Internet Exchange Points more visible and accountable; and the Caribbean region’s data scarcity challenge.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In this podcast episode, we talk with Bria Deveaux, the Equities Coordinator, and D’Arcy Rahming Jr, the Chief Technology Officer, of ArawakX Pan Caribbean Securities Exchange, an online platform in the Bahamas that facilitates equity crowdfunding for businesses. During our conversation, we discuss, among other things: the services ArawakX offers, and how it leverages technology; the types of businesses that can seek funding, and how to become an investor; and whether ArawakX intends to extend its services to Caribbean businesses and Caribbean investors.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) is one of the fastest growing areas leveraging blockchain technology, and has begun to open a broad range of opportunities, especially as it relates to the trade of digital assets. Blockchain Architect and CEO of 876 Solutions, Trevor Forrest, explains: what NFTs are; why they are such an important development; and what might be the opportunity for the Caribbean region.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Nicholas Kee is a young tech entrepreneur and youth advocate, who has a background in software engineering, but has worked on a variety of international projects. In recent years, he has stepped away from the NGO space to launch some exciting projects, such as Kee Farms along with other innovative ventures. As a young techie, Nicholas offers a unique perspective on how he sees the world, what could be his life’s work, and how he can contribute to the world over the long term.   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In the October 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Kerrie-Ann Vassall-Richards and Steven Williams, the panel discusses: Has the shrinking of the global marketplace made digital transformation mandatory in the Caribbean; and Have Caribbean businesses become overly dependent on social media for their business presence online?   The episode and show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Podcast Page (www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/) Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez Artwork

Girls In Tech Guyana is a chapter of the global non-profit, Girls in Tech, which is dedicated to eliminating the gender gap in tech. In this a new episode in our conversations with tech-based social enterprises, we speak with Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran, the Managing Director of Girls In Tech Guyana, on among other things: her journey to lead a tech non-profit; the sustainability of Girls in Tech Guyana, and what it will take to truly move the needle on eliminating the gender gap in tech.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Over the past several years, Caribbean governments have been engaged in public sector transformation programmes and initiatives to better leverage ICT. However, in many instances, the effort seems open-ended with few concrete outcomes, and the speed of change appears to lag behind that of the society. An exception appears to be the digital transformation programme of the Government the Bahamas, which has been realising a number of successes and milestone achievements. Michael Hamilton, the Programme Coordinator of the Digital Transformation to Strengthen Competitiveness programme for the Government the Bahamas discusses: the programme and what it hopes to achieve; some of its successes to date; how the success of the programme will be measured; and what new developments we should expect in the no-too-distant future.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In the September 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Carolyn Ferguson and Liselle Yorke, the panel discusses: Using technology to enhance accessibility to online education for persons with learning impairments, for discussion; and Expanding horizons: how technology is building new connections and opportunities for Caribbean youth.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman

Launching or growing a business is challenging at the best of times, but during a pandemic, it may be unfathomable. Melarka Williams, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ingenuity Technologies and TheHive Freelancing, discusses his entrepreneurial journey to date, including: how Ingenuity Technologies has fared over the past 18 months; why he decided to launch a new venture in the middle of the pandemic; and how he is able to manage two very distinct tech businesses.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Although digital transformation has been widely discussed and encouraged, there still seems to be a lot of misinformation on the subject, which affects the way organisations approach the process. Nadia Byer-Thomas, of 800 TECH, seeks to dispel key myths around digital transformation. In this episode, seven myths are tackled.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez  

Can true digital natives thrive in our traditional education system of the Caribbean? The short answer is no. The technology-based social enterprise, WE CODE CARIBBEAN, seeks to give Caribbean youth the requisite tools to be absolutely disruptive. In our conversation with WE CODE CARIBBEAN’s Founder and CEO, Safiya Olugbala, she discusses: her journey to start WE CODE CARIBBEAN; the ways in which the organisation is leveraging technology; how as an NGO WE CODE CARIBBEAN is addressing profitability/sustainability; and what she hopes the organisation will achieve.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In mid-August, Haiti experienced a devastating earthquake, which was quickly followed by a tropical depression. Buildings and infrastructure, including that for telecoms, were severely damaged, but are critical to support relief efforts. Gregory Domond, an ICT Consultant based in Haiti, and Sylvester Cadette, the Programme Officer of the ITU Area Office for the Caribbean, discuss the state of telecoms in Haiti from a local and international perspective.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman

In the August 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Genelle Lake and Chad Fraser, the panel discusses: Is the Caribbean taking full advantage of the real opportunities presented by the technology revolution; and Social media and cyber security – navigating the risks.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In our second Expert Insights update for 2021, Cybersecurity Consultant, David Gittens shares his thoughts on, among other things: key trends in the current threat landscape; whether individuals or organisations should pay ransom demands;  whether cybersecurity insurance is a worthwhile investment; and three (3) questions organisations should ask when looking to hire a security expert.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The Innovation Hub that is being established at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), in Saint Lucia, is expected to improve the competitiveness of College graduates along with the wider economy, by transforming how education is delivered. SALCC Principal/President Dr. Keith Nurse, and Brent St Catherine, Head of the Innovation Hub and the Gateways to Global Careers Programme, discuss: this new initiative; how it has been designed; and why it is likely to achieve its objectives over the long term.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Youth, particularly those in developing countries, such in the Caribbean region, are especially vulnerable to a broad range of social ills, but in many instances, they are not properly equipped to navigate those challenges. Elizabeth Terry, Project Lead for UNUH, a mobile gaming app that is currently under development, discusses: why develop a game app directed at youth and what is the problem UNUH is trying to address; why “it takes cash to care”; and why she and her team will be playing ‘the long game’ when assessing the impact of UNUH.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The National Transformation Initiative (NTI) in Barbados is seeking to equip every Barbadian with the knowledge, skills and values to be citizens of good character and competence in a digital world. NTI Director, Dr Allyson Leacock, shares some insights on: how the NTI was established: what it hopes to achieve; and the recent partnership between the NTI and Coursera.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In the July 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Nerissa Golden and Dr Lyndell St Ville, the panel discusses: leveraging technology to start, grow and thrive as a Caribbean entrepreneur; and united we stand: raising opportunities for collaboration to achieve success despite uncertainties.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is in the process of piloting DCash, the Central Bank Digital Currency for the countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Sharmyn Powell Chief Risk Officer of the ECCB, and Chairperson of the Bank's Fintech Working Group, which is leading the implementation of the DCash Pilot Project, discusses, among other things: DCash and some of the results of the pilot; some of the plans the Bank has for the currency in the future; and key trends that have been emerging in the OECS fintech space.    Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Gender-based violence is not only prevalent, it is also highly pervasive in many Caribbean countries. Ronelle King, Founder and Director of Life in Leggings discusses how this organisation is leveraging technology to reduce the rape culture and the occurrence of gender-based violence in the region, along with the challenges of balancing sustainability as a non-profit.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In the June 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Simone Pasmore and Ian Mitchell, the panel discusses: automation for business operations: what does it really cost; and e-commerce and local and regional trade, barriers and opportunities.    Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

If one delves beneath the surface of today’s technologies, one is likely to find that much of the products, algorithms and developments that are being integrated into our lives have been built inherently with certain biases or prejudices. Founder of dgtlfutures.com, Matthew Cowen, discusses the role technology has been playing in perpetuating bias. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The LGBTQ+ community worldwide still experiences considerable discrimination, but is a segment with significant spending power, which frequently, is overlooked. Donnya ‘Zi’ Piggott is the CEO of Pink Coconuts, a new LGBTQ+ travel start-up focused on creating spaces for queer travellers to thrive. In our conversation with Donnya we discuss, among other things: The challenges of launching a travel and hospitality business during a pandemic; How Pink Coconuts it is leveraging technology; along with Why it is important to focus on sustainability before the social good.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez 

Ideally, a unified Caribbean region should be better and stronger than its constituent parts. With regard to telecoms and ICT, we still in the process of establishing a seamless and harmonised regional space. In our recent conversation with Rodney Taylor, the new Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, he shares his thoughts on, among other things: the CARICOM Single ICT Space; the efforts afoot to establish a regional regulatory machinery; and what should be the region’s priorities, with respect to telecoms and ICT.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

2020 was supposed to be an outstanding year for research and data intelligence firm, Bluedot Insights. However, by March 2020, all of the growth and performance projections came crashing down. Company CEO, Larren Peart, gives us: an update on Bluedot Insights since our first conversation in 2018; some of the challenges that were experienced, and the tough decisions that had to be made; and what might be in store for the company moving forward.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman

In the May 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Allison James and Andrew Olton, the panel discusses: pivoting to sustainable business models; and IT risk management.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit: Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Sylvester Cadette, of the International Telecommunication Union, discusses: the Tampere Convention; why it is important for more Caribbean countries to accede to that Convention; along with the need for Caribbean countries to have more comprehensive emergency telecommunications plans.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit:  Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez

In our fifth instalment on social enterprises that are leveraging ICT, we speak with the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Akata Farms in Grenada, Bevon Chadel Charles. During the course of the conversation, Bevon discusses: the ways in which Akata Farms it is leveraging technology; how and why Akata farms is a social enterprise; and the challenges of being a tech social enterprise in the agriculture sector.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit:  Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman

Even more now than when we discussed it in 2019, chatbots are all the rage. Following up from our previous conversation on chatbots, Kern Elliott of iGovTT is back to tell us, among other things:   how chatbots are now being used; the biggest mistake or oversight organisations are making with chatbots; and the steps organisations should be considering to take their chatbot game to the next level.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!   Music credit:  Red Peas and Rice, Ray Holman

In February 2021, Trinidad and Tobago film and television distributor, FILMCO, announced the launch of a new Caribbean streaming platform, FILMCO2Go, which is streaming Caribbean films and TV shows to the world! We speak with FILMCO2Go Co-Founder, Mariel Brown, about: FILMCO2Go; The Caribbean TV and film industry; and What it is like to run a creative tech business in Trinidad and Tobago.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Gerard Best and Amit Uttamchandani, the panel discusses disinformation, misinformation and fake news, including: whether social media or the content delivery platforms are the blame; the importance of scepticism; and why regulation is not enough.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Project Management, Information Management Professional, and long-time contributor to ICT Pulse, Liselle Ramcharan-Briscoe, continues the data adventures she started with us in 2018. by sharing with us: what new data adventures she has been experiencing; key software engineering, information management and/or even project management trends that she has been observing over the last few years, plus the impact of COVID-19 on those areas; and what are some of the biggest challenges businesses are experiencing these days, especially with regard to information management.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In our April instalment of our series exploring technology-based social enterprises, we are highlighting Link Your Purpose, a career development platform and social enterprise, based in Jamaica. In speaking with the CEO of Link Your Purpose, Lanisia Rhoden, we discuss: how Link Your Purpose is leveraging technology; how it balances sustainability versus profitability; and its scope for growth in the Caribbean and internationally.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although we have all played video games, video games developed by Caribbean developers appear to have little or no visibility. Moreover, there is no video game development industry in region to speak of, and the underpinning ecosystem remains underdeveloped. Jamaican video games developers, Glen Henry and Graham Reid, discuss the current situation, including: The economic benefits for Caribbean countries; The region’s strengths and weaknesses; The business of video gaming development; and What individuals who want to get into game development ought to do.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Melissa Farara and Oshane Bailey, the panel discusses: What will it take for the Caribbean to become the next Silicon Valley? And what should be the starting point for regulators/competition authorities in this digital age? Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this episode, and with digital economy strategist, Tracy Hackshaw, we get an update on the Internet Governance issues that being discussed internationally, many of which are likely affect how we perceive and use the Internet in the future. We also discuss the state of the Caribbean digital economy, and what should be the priorities of the region going forward.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Locally-owned social enterprises are not common in the Caribbean; and ICT-based ones are even rarer. Tech entrepreneur Eldon Marks of the social enterprise, Nexus Hub, which is based in Guyana, gives us an update on the business since our last conversation in 2019, and why tech entrepreneurs ought to be more social impact-focussed.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In the first instalment in our Expert insights series on cyber threats and security for 2021, and with Sean Slattery of Caribbean Solutions Lab, he discusses, among other things: the changes in the threat landscape that occurred in 2020; key vulnerabilities due to remote working and working from home; the impact of the pandemic on the role of IT/cybersecurity personnel; and three things organisations should be doing in 2021 to improve their network/IT security.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our February 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Gisselle Ramsaran and Vincentius (Vincent) Kenswil, the panel discusses: how can we transform to a CARICOM-wide educational system using the ICT Technology? And, how to manage business operations whilst adopting technology?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Banj, a co-working space and Google powered accelerator in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, is the second tech-based business we are focussing on in our series on technology-based social enterprises. We chat with company Founder, Marc Alain Boucicault, about: what drove him to set up Banj;   the social impact Banj is having in Haiti; the big dreams he has for Banj and for Haiti; and the advice you would give tech start-ups that also want to be social impact-focussed.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

If there is every a time we, in the Caribbean region, need the CARICOM Single ICT Space, it is now, as the world continues to navigate its way through COVID-19. In this episode, we are re-joined by Jennifer Britton, of the CARICOM Secretariat, to give us the scoop on the latest achievements and developments, as well as to (hopefully) give us some indication of how close we might be to (finally!!) realising the Single ICT Space.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

With lockdowns and curfews the norm since 2020 due to COVID-19, business and economies worldwide have suffered. In this episode we check back in with one of the tech businesses we featured in 2018: Caribbean Transit Solutions, a location and logistics-based services, headquartered in Barbados. Co-Founder, Khalil Bryan, gives us an update on the state of the company and on his entrepreneurial journey to date.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

On this the latest episode of our ‘Know Your Neighbours’ series, we explore the telecoms and ICT space of the resource-rich and culturally diverse twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago, with Simon Fraser of the Trinidad and Tobago Computer Society. Below are some of the issues discussed with Simon during our conversation: How developed are telecoms and ICT in Trinidad and Tobago; How accessible are telecoms and ICT services across the country; Whether services are affordable, and how the rates payable in Trinidad and Tobago compare with those in the Caribbean region and in North America; To what degree are the public and private sectors in Trinidad and Tobago leveraging ICT.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

We are launching a new theme for 2021: social impact-focussed tech businesses. In this our first episode of the series, we are highlighting Farm Credibly, a digital co-operative for farms in Jamaica. We speak with its Co-Founder and CEO, Varun Baker to find out, among other things: What does it mean to be a digital co-op for farms? How Farm Credibly manages the risks typically associated with lending to the farmers? What are some of the key performance indicators (KPIs) or markers of success that are important to Farm Credibly? How easy might it be to expand Farm Credibly to other countries?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our January 2021 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Bianca Welds and Lendon Telesford, the panel discusses digital transformation. In light of the accelerated efforts to leverage technology that occurred in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, now that we are in 2021: where do we see the future of digital transformation for Caribbean organisations and businesses this year; and  have all of the movements that supposedly have been made towards digital transformation, have they truly been fostering transformation? Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2020, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Telojo (Telly) Valerie Onu and Carlton Samuels, the panel discussed the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2020, and what might be in store for 2021. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Globally, considerable growth is being projected for the business process outsourcing (BPO) segment of the wider outsourcing market – by as much as 8% year-on-year. Kirk Laughlin of Nearshore Americas discusses, among other things: how the Caribbean outsourcing industry fared in 2020; the segments the region ought to focus on in trying to move up the value chain; and key trends that are emerging and are likely to shape the industry for years to come.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although the term, ‘the future of work’, suggests something that is to come, what is happening in today’s workplace is shaping that future. In this our final exploration of the topic, the future of work, for 2020, Dr Maurice McNaughton, of the University of the West Indies, shares his thoughts on among other things, how tertiary-level institutions can better prepare students for the future of work; how Caribbean countries can prevent the skills gap from widening; the changing focus on work-life balance and quality of life; and what should be the priorities of developing states as it relates to the future of work.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our November 2020 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Tunde Mottley and Matthew Cowen, the panel discusses whether our size, complexity, lack of investment and poor data preclude the Caribbean region from truly innovative disruption in business, and are Caribbean countries confusing ‘smart' with ‘digital’?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

It is widely held that virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have the potential to transform how we interact with, and view, things around us, whilst also opening us up to a broad range of new and different experiences. However, it could be argued that we, in the Caribbean, have not yet begun to leverage those opportunities. Software development firm, 4th Dymension, has created a VR experience of Plymouth, Montserrat, before the volcanic eruption that forced the abandonment of the capital city. We learn more about that project, and discuss the ways in which the Caribbean region could leverage VR and AR, as well as whether a VR or AR-based venture can be financially viable.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

What does it take for a country to develop its technology sector to the point where it can be an economic pillar of its economy? The Cayman Islands is trying to do just that by diversifying from their two-pillar economy. In this episode, Charlie Kirkconnell, CEO of the award-winning Cayman Enterprise City (CEC), discusses, among other things: why the CEC has been so successful in attracting technology businesses, and becoming a hotbed for innovation; the Launch Labs initiative, which aims to help tech teams build successful businesses; some of the successes and milestones achieved by the CEC; and  lessons other countries can learn from the CEC experience. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this instalment of our ‘Know your neighbours’ series, James Clarke, of Global Sun Integration Management, helps us to explore the telecoms and ICT space of the Bahamas, and answers a number of questions, including The history behind the ‘Pirates of Nassau’ The extent to which the telecoms and ICT infrastructure in Abaco and Grand Bahama has been restored, since Hurricane Dorian in 2019; The degree to which is the Bahamian Government and private sector are leveraging ICT; The current state of the plans for Grand Bahama to become a smart city; and ICT and tech-related opportunities in the Bahamas that he is excited about. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although the privacy and data protection space has been evolving as technology becomes even more deeply embedded in our societies, COVID-19 has thrown up a whole host of challenges and issues that we must also address. Attorney-at-law and Certified Information Privacy Professional, Grace Lindo, is back with us to discuss, among other things: how the privacy and data protection space has evolved since our last conversation in 2018; what are some of the privacy-related concerns and issues that have emerged since COVID-19; and what are some of the privacy and data protection trends that have begun to emerge. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

These days, it is not enough to know whether an individual has been online or offline in the past 30 days, but rather, whether they enjoy meaningful connectivity to the Internet. With Ana Maria Rodriguez and Yacine Khelladi, both from the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI), we discuss, among other things: the ‘Meaningful Connectivity’ targets A4AI has proposed: whether the proposed targets have been set too low or too high; and some of the challenges countries and individuals might experience in trying to achieve those targets. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our October 2020 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Liselle Yorke and Dr Lyndell St Ville, the panel discusses:  Online education and copyright law in the Caribbean. Are we making the grade?, and Too much information! Raising citizens’ awareness of the need for data sharing limits.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Guyana is among the most resource-rich countries in the Caribbean region, but historically, it has struggled economically. The recent discovery of oil has been opening up a broad range of opportunities that have the potential to change the trajectory of the country. Samantha Sheoprashad, of Trifinity Solutions in Guyana, shares her thoughts on, among other things: the state of telecoms and ICT in Guyana; the degree they are being leveraged in by the Government; along with the ICT/tech-related opportunities that she now sees in Guyana. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Although job and the workplace has been evolving over the past several years, COVID-19 has irrevocably accelerated some of the changes. In continuing our conversation on the future of work, Certified Management Consultant, International Trade Expert, and Economist, Dr Claudius Preville, discusses among other things: how that is changing in the Caribbean region; the implications of the gig economy on the Caribbean workplace; and whether we can prevent the skills gap from widening.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our September 2020 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, business intelligence expert and CEO, Raquel Seville, and Publisher and international trade executive, Loren Moss, we discuss: how can Caribbean economies/businesses become more resilient in the face of disruption; and how can Caribbean countries better leverage the growing movement to telework?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Back in the day, being computer literate was a specifically highlighted skill or requirement in job descriptions for a broad range of positions. Now, the requirement is digital literacy. David Soutar, of the Slashroots Foundation, and of the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD) discusses digital literacy: What it is, and why it is important How it is different from computer literacy The digital/data literacy programme offered by the CSOD; and How CSOD might evolve within the context of the future of work.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

“Whether you’re managing 3,000 or you’re managing 20, the fundamentals are the same”, so says Founding Chairman and CEO of itelbpo smart solutions, Yoni Epstein.  In this episode Yoni shares his entrepreneurial journey and a few of the important lessons he has learned along way. He also discusses challenges that limit the ability of Caribbean countries to transition into higher value outsourcing services; and why Caribbean countries should continue to focus on call/contact centres into the future.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Worldwide, there has been a race to see which country will launch a digital currency, with countries, such as China, the United States, Great Britain, France, South Korea and the Bahamas, all vying to be first movers. Plans are underway in the Bahamas to launch its central bank digital currency, the Sand Dollar, in October 2020. In our conversation with Cleopatra Davis and Chaozhen Bobby Chen, of the Central Bank of The Bahamas, we learn, among other things: What the impetus was for the Bahamas to develop its own digital currency; How the Sand Dollar may better serve the underbanked and unbanked in the Bahamas; and  How the Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements will be managed for this new digital currency. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Known as a playground for the rich, tourism and offshore financial services, not much more is really known about the Cayman Islands, especially with regard to telecoms and ICT. Dail Davis of Dart Enterprises, shares his knowledge of the Cayman Islands landscape, both in terms if telecoms and ICT space, and business environment there.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

In this our August 2020 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, IT professional and CEO, Steven Williams, and Tech Maven, Ingrid Riley, we discuss: did SMEs let a good crisis, in COVID-19, go to waste; and can digital nomads and remote workers resuscitate the Caribbean region’s tourism industry?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Traditionally, online learning was the option pursued when in-person tuition was not available and/or was too expensive. However, due to COVID-19, online learning platforms have become the primary means of delivering education worldwide, and it is anticipated that it will remain a leading modality in the coming years. Ricardo Allen, Founder of One on One Educational Services, has been leading the charge with regard to personalised online learning in the Caribbean region. In this episode, our discussion with Ricardo will cover areas including: Who is Ricardo Allen and what has been entrepreneurial journey to date What One on One Educational Services is, and how it has evolved over the years How COVID-19 has been and is likely to affect the online learning space And what might be in store for One on One Educational Services in the coming years. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As much as we might grumble about the quality of the telecommunications services we are currently receiving in the Caribbean region, they are considerably better than what they were 10, and most definitely, 20 years ago. Much of the credit needs to go the regulatory structures that were established by many countries across the region, which created the enabling environment in those early years, resulting in the services that we currently experience. Annie Baldeo and Kirk Sookram of the Telecommunication Authority of Trinidad and Tobago discuss telecommunications regulation in the Caribbean, including: how the region’s telecommunications space has evolved over the past 20 years; the impact of the Internet on regulation; whether more competition will result in lower prices; whether the Over the Top services providers should pay/compensate Caribbean Internet Service Providers; and  what might be the future of regulation in the region. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Blogger, tech retailer, business advisor, online show host, Keron Rose has accomplished a lot in four years. In our recent conversation, Keron shares his entrepreneurial journey, and touches on, among other things: key turning points in his life that have brought him to where he is today; some of the biggest deficiencies he has found in Caribbean entrepreneurs; and why he decided to return to the Caribbean region to make his fortune. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Into the foreseeable future, innovation and entrepreneurship will be two essential contributors to wealth creation. In this our July 2020 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, IT professional and CEO, Chad Fraser, and soon-to-be university graduate, Juleen Gentles, we discuss: Co-innovation as a model for innovation and competitiveness; and Youth empowerment to realise market-ready solutions. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As part of the Dutch Kingdom, Sint Maarten – not to be confused with Saint Martin, the French overseas territory – is a popular tourist destination in the Eastern Caribbean, but not much is known about the country's ICT and telecoms space. Marvio Cooks, of Altospire, and a Sint Maarten citizen, helps us better understand, among other things: what the telecoms and ICT is like there; the extent to which the infrastructure has recovered since Hurricane Irma, and some of the emerging ICT-related trends and opportunities in Sint Maarten.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Managed IT services is not new, but it has gained considerable prominence, thanks to COVID-19, and the need for IT systems and networks to work optimally with limited onsite support. Christopher Reckord, CEO of tTech Limited in Jamaica, provides a primer on managed IT services, including when it might not be a good fit for an organisation; and questions to ask when evaluating a managed IT service provider.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Business continuity and technology resilience have become critical to organisations as countries worldwide try to navigate through COVID-19. In the Caribbean region, we also have to contend with the prospect of hurricanes and tropical storms, which also point back to ICT resilience and disaster planning and management. Dr. Stephen Louis, of BusinessTech Research, Inc., discusses: business continuity and technology resilience; how well Caribbean organisations fared during the COVID-19-related lockdowns; some of the biggest misconceptions people have about business continuity and technology resilience; and key technology-related tips for organisations moving forward. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although we know the value of being intentional in our thoughts, words and actions, how many of us truly practise it? Serial entrepreneur, innovation advocate and Founder of the PWR Agency, Ife Badejo, shares with us her entrepreneurial journey to date, and tells us why it is important to be intentional in business.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our June 2020 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, data analyst, Andrew Olton, and freelance journalist and blogger, Mylène Colmar,  we discuss: the role of data and analytics in revenue recovery post-COVID-19, and the challenge of digital evolution experienced by Caribbean media.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The gig economy is a growing segment of the workforce, and thanks to COVID-19, it is likely to become even more crucial. In an online panel discussion with Therese Turner-Jones, of the Inter-American Development Bank; Melissa Sassi, of IBM; Nadeen Matthews-Blair, of the National Commercial Bank Jamaica ; and Juleen Gentles, of the University of Technology, to commemorate International Girls in ICT Day 2020, the panel shares tips and advice on how to thrive in the gig economy, and how to keep more female talent in the tech workforce. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although Caribbean governments have been engaging in e-government initiatives for at least a decade, most of them would have received a failing grade due to their ability to engage their clients and to facilitate transactions efficiently and effectively when work from home (WFH) arrangements that had been instituted to reduce the rate of infection of COVID-19. Eamonn Sheehy is the Director, Public Sector, of Cloud Carib, and in light of the pandemic and the 2020 hurricane season, he shares his thoughts and opinions on what Caribbean governments ought to do to improve their systems and to avoid the marked deterioration in their processes and services, which would augur well, not only as we navigate our way out of this pandemic, but also achieve longer term improvements in government service delivery.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our May 2020 Community Chat, and with two members of the Caribbean tech community, Akua Walters of Hacker Hostel, and Kerrie-Ann Vassall-Richards, of Business Growth Rocket, we discuss: the importance of being a regional entrepreneur in the context of COVID-19; and getting online learning right. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Montserrat is a Caribbean country many people really don’t think about. However, it has been quietly plodding away developing its telecoms and ICT environment; and according to our guest, Dr. the Honourable Samuel Joseph, the Deputy Premier and is the Minister for Communications, Works, Energy and Labour in Montserrat, the country will soon become a leading nation in the Caribbean region. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

In the face of COVID-19, digital transformation is being held up as to key to organisations’ survival; but, many are still unclear about what it is and have best to achieve it. Digital transformation specialist, Matthew Cowen, shares first-hand insights and recommendations that businesses and organisations was immediately adopt, in order to successfully embark upon, and more importantly complete, their digital transformation process. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Brenda Cuthbert is the Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Employers' Federation. She shares her views and observations of the future of work, today’s workplace, how it is changing due to ICT, and the extent to which the Jamaican employer is ready for the workplace of the future Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Alice Bain and Naphtale Nunes, the panel discusses: the deficiencies of our broadband Infrastructure and other technology related issues in the region; and thereafter, to what extent should Caribbean businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, continue to embrace or promote working from home post COVID-19? Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although off the shelf, generic digital products can help a business solve a problem, frequently, they can only help to a point. In this conversation with Joshua Kissoon, we discuss eBusiness, the suite of business solutions that his firm, Techlify, has created. We also discuss Joshua’s entrepreneurial journey to date, how Techlify has evolved over the years, and what might be in store for the company in the coming years. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Also known as the Spice Isle and world famous tourist destination, Grenada has one of the most well developed telecoms and ICT sectors in the Caribbean region, and more so the Eastern Caribbean.  In this the latest instalment of our Know Your Neighbours series, ISP and Network Infrastructure professional, Brent McIntosh, sheds some light on: the telecoms and ICT space is like in Grenada; how the country is leveraging telecoms and ICT; and some of emerging ICT-related trends and opportunities there. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

For the 100th episode of the ICT Pulse Podcast, the tables are turned on the host, Michele Marius! Michele is interviewed by Nerissa Golden, of Goldenmedia, on her journey to create ICT Pulse , and eventually, the Podcast, along with some of her observations of the Caribbean ICT/tech space over the past decade, and her experiences in leading the Podcast to this milestone.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

It is only a matter of time before an organisation experiences some kind of cyber incident. In this conversation with IT and cyber security expert, Niel Harper, we discuss, among other things, how the threat landscape is changing, what should be included in a good Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan, whether cyber insurance is a good idea, and what is the top cybersecurity concern businesses face today.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Allison James and Amit Uttamchandani, the panel discusses ICT and COVID-19 (the coronavirus): some of the challenges that are being experienced, ways it can be better leveraged, and emerging opportunities. We also discuss: Whether there would (or should) be a difference between how a business approaches what might be perceived as short-term interventions, such as having its employees telework, as opposed to if those measures are to remain in effect for several months? What might be some of the ICT infrastructure-related  challenges and considerations, in order to support remote working? Although considerable attention has been given to e-learning and equipping classrooms with computers/laptops/tablets, why does it appear that remote learning is still a challenge in some countries? Many of the terminal exams that shape the trajectory of people's lives, such as Grade 6/Common Entrance, O-levels, A-levels, should be occurring in May and June, but are being postponed. Are there options or solutions that could be considered?    Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!    

Blockchain technology has much wider application than just Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. In this conversation with Trevor Forrest, of 876 Solutions, we continue a conversation we began in October 2019, on how blockchain technology can help Caribbean countries reduce corruption and increase global competitiveness, by now examining how Caribbean countries can leverage blockchain technology, and whether micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can also do the same.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), Dr Wayne Wesley, discusses the role of the organisation as we embark upon the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and with regard to the future work. He also explains why although syllabi and testing modalities need to be carefully considered, teaching and the overall curricula must also be re-examined, in order to ensure that current and future students are optimally prepared for the evolving workplace.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

This is the first update of 2020 in our longstanding Expert Insight on cyber/IT threats and security series, with Sean Slattery, the Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Caribbean Solutions Lab. Sean updates is on: the changes occurring in the threat landscape the security of the cloud, and emerging threats  security concerns and recommendations for smart devices, the smart home and the Internet of Things (IoT) the usefulness of Multi-Factor Authentication; and the growing demand worldwide for cybersecurity professionals. He also shares tips on how to keep our personal devices safer, critical recommendations for organisations; along with giving us a sneak peak of security solutions that will soon be available for the consumer market.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Eric Nurse, from Grenada, and Claire Craig, from Trinidad and Tobago, the panel discusses: the need for a digital ID that can be used seamlessly across the Caribbean region; and the importance of Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) to the Caribbean region.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although a full member of the Caribbean Community, the rest of English-speaking Caribbean knows relatively little about Belize, generally, and from an ICT perspective. In this the latest instalment of our Know Your Neighbours series, Kimano Barrow, of the Public Utilities Commission, discusses, among other things: the telecoms and ICT space is like in Belize; how the country is leveraging telecoms and ICT; and some of ICT-related trends and opportunities that might be evident there.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The global outsourcing sector continue to grow, and is area that is likely to continue to be source of support to a wide cross-section of industries. However, thanks to technologies and similar to all other sectors, it is also evolving. In our follow-up conversation with Rejo Sam, of management consulting firm Avasant, he updates us on current trends and developments in the Caribbean and global outsourcing space, discusses the impact on the future of work, and what the Caribbean region ought to do to better position itself in light of the changes that have been occurring. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Location intelligence is becoming increasingly important as we continue to rely more on ICTs to optimise our businesses and improve our decision making. In speaking with Valrie Grant, Founder and Managing Director of GeotechVision Enterprises, she shares her entrepreneurship journey, key trends occurring in the geospatial industry and its scope for growth, and skills that are in demand in order to be successful in that industry.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Dmitri Dawkins and Nerissa Golden, the panel discusses: tech enablement and what it means to run a tech-enabled business; and the importance of telling our story in preparation for growing a business and attracting investors.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Curaçao is one of the leading telecoms and ICT infrastructure hubs in the Caribbean, which tends to be overlooked by its Caribbean neighbours. Giovanni King of the Bureau Telecommunications and Post in Curaçao, discusses the current state of telecoms in Curaçao, how it has been able to develop its infrastructure to attract global players, and how the country plans to become a smart nation.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

To a considerable degree, Caribbean businesses still have not been able to fully leverage e-commerce and online payment services. In our conversation with Christopher Burns, CEO of the payment gateway, First Atlantic Commerce, we discuss the company and the solutions it offers, including those that might be suitable for MSMEs, along with trends in the online payments and wider fintech space, generally, and in the Caribbean region. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Without a doubt, the labour market has been undergoing a dramatic transformation, and according to the OECD, over half of today’s adults do not have the right skills for emerging jobs. Essentially, we are ill-prepared for the future of work. In this our first episode for 2020, are launching a new series to discuss the future of work. To kick off the conversation, management consultant and advisor, Fabiano Rosa, shares his thoughts on the areas, including, what he understands by the term the future of work whether the Caribbean region can prevent its skills gap from widening, and what should be key priorities in developing countries to better prepare for the changing work environment.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2019, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Telojo (Telly) Valerie Onu and Carlton Samuels, the panel discussed the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2019, and what might be in store for 2020. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Whether we fully appreciate it or not, the Caribbean region – its citizens and societies – continue to be vulnerable to a broad range of information security threats and breaches. Continuing with our Expert insight series, we discuss with David Gittens of the Barbados Chapter of the  Information Systems Security Association, the current threat landscape, tips to improve information security in organisations, and what we can expect in 2020..   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Continuing with our 'Know your neighbours’ series, and with Dr Lyndell St Ville, the President of the ICT Association of Saint Lucia, we are exploring the ICT/technology and tech entrepreneurship space in Saint Lucia, along with its strengths, challenges and opportunities. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our November 2019 Community Chat and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Elise Grace Jones and Steven Jemmott, the panel discusses the Caribbean region as a great interrupter in the data economy, and the impact of mobile app development in the workplace.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

Due to the range of challenges that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face, SIDS advocate and ICT and digital economy expert, Tracy Hackshaw, gives us an update on the progress that has been made on the SIDS agenda, and on the digital economy and Internet Governance in the Caribbean region. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!    

Generally, innovation does not  occur in a vacuum. It is at its best when there is the enabling environment to support it, such as a collaboration space. In this episode, Eldon Marks discusses the importance of collaboration to realise innovation, through his observations and experiences with Nexus Hub, a non-profit tech collaboration space he founded in Guyana.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The French Overseas Territory of Martinique is a thriving island in the Eastern Caribbean, and is the focus of this instalment of our ‘Know Your Neighbours’ series. Matthew Cowan of dgtalfutures has been based in Martinique for several years, and so discusses the ICT and tech landscape, tech trends, along with matters related doing business there and the opportunities available to entrepreneurs.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our October 2019 Community Chat and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Simone Pasmore and Trevor Forrest, the panel discusses user experience studies and testing: the missing ingredient in generating conversions (sales), and how blockchain technology can help Caribbean countries reduce corruption and increase global competitiveness.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Chatbots are all the rage these days. Kern Elliott, Senior Professional Applications Support, at the National ICT Company Limited, also known as iGovTT, helps us understand the basics of chatbots, along with key considerations when deploying them, and what might be the future of chatbots.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Kirk-Anthony Hamilton is the Founder of Tech Beach, one of the leading business tech conferences in the Caribbean that is seeking to foster creativity and innovation by expanding our minds as to what is possible. Kirk discusses Tech Beach and what it aims to achieve, and also shares his own personal journey, especially the change in mindset he had to conquer, in order to challenge all of us to strive for more than the status quo.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Continuing with our ‘Know Your Neighbours’ series, Ervin Williams, Director of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Saint Kitts and Nevis, provides some insight into the ICT and telecoms space in Saint Kitts and Nevis, and why it has been able to punch above its weight when compared with other Caribbean countries.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Online payment platform, WiPay, continues to roll out its operations across the Caribbean region. Founder and CEO, Aldwyn Wayne, discusses the expansion to date; new services that are coming on stream, and how he balances the demands of being the CEO of a growing, regional business.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our September 2019 Community Chat and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Allison James and Craig Nesty, the panel discusses the need for disaster policies as it relates to the provision of telecommunications services, and people, data and trust – the pillars of the new economy.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As work continues in realising the Caribbean Single ICT Space, we are joined, once again, by Jennifer Britton, of the CARICOM Secretariat, to give us an update of the work to date, upcoming milestones, and important areas of focus moving forward.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Whenever Haiti is in the news, typically, some unfortunate event has occurred. Haiti is considered the poorest country in the Americas, and has experienced considerable adversity, due to political corruption, instability and natural disasters, to name a few. However, in the midst of such difficulties, the impact ICT is having on the country should not be overlooked. Max Larson Henry, of the ICT Association of Haiti (AHTIC), discusses the ICT/tech space in Haiti, the challenges, but also the opportunities that exist for those who are prepared to look beyond the headlines.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Over the past several months, ‘digital transformation’ has become the buzzwords of many policymakers across the Caribbean region, but it is not always clear whether the term is understood, and more importantly, whether there is a cogent and coherent strategy to achieve it. Dr Justin Ram, of the Caribbean Development Bank, discusses the states of digital transformation in the region, and key elements that must be addressed to take us where we would like to be.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our August 2019 Community Chat and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Kimberly Adams, of Novelty Curve Inc., and Stephen Lee, of ArkiTechs Inc., the panel discusses the lack of opportunities for the Caribbean tech business community, and the challenges facing the Caribbean region’s telecoms and ICT networks as they continue to evolve.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Without a doubt, one of the purposes of ICT/tech innovation is to solve real-life, practical problems. However, our problem solving capability in the Caribbean region can be greatly enhanced if we have people who possess the requisite skills and are suitably equipped. Professor Patrick Hosein, the Director of TTLAB, a research laboratory in Trinidad and Tobago, explains how TTLAB is developing practical and innovative solutions for industry, whilst also conducting internationally-recognised research.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

It was inevitable. No conversation on ICT and tech today would be complete without a discussion on social media. Experienced media strategist, Knolly Moses, who is the CEO of Panmedia in Jamaica, shares some insights on how social media has evolved over the years, current trends, plus useful tips on how organisations can leverage social media to improve consumer reach, engagement, and hopefully conversion to sales, or other desired action.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Over the past several years, Barbados consistently ranks among the top Caribbean countries with respect to telecom and ICT. David Smith, President, of the Barbados Chapter of the Internet Society, helps us to understand the factors that made Barbados a telecoms and ICT powerhouse in the region; some of the challenges country is currently experiencing; along with trends and opportunities that are being leveraged to transform the Barbadian economy.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

By no stretch of the imagination is the banking and financial services industry considered a hotbed of ICT/tech innovation and disruption; however, the National Commercial Bank Jamaica has been recognised as one of the most innovative banks in Latin America and the Caribbean. Nadeen Matthews Blair, the Bank’s Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, discusses ways in which NCB Jamaica fosters innovation, and an innovation culture, in such a conservative and regulated space.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

To a considerable degree, and across almost every aspect of our lives, technology has been a driver of change. In this our July 2019 Community Chat and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Liselle Yorke and Shannon Clarke, the panel discusses on the uneasy tension between technology and preserving the local cultural heritage of Caribbean countries, and implementing Tech4Good projects to drive digital transformation in the region.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although the term “digital transformation” has become quite popular, many of us really don’t know what it truly means. To help us get a better sense of what digital transformation by organisations entails, Julio Lima and Carlyle Assue of the Caribbean Development Bank discuss the digital transformation process that is currently being implemented by the Bank, and share some important takeaways that organisations, and even countries, can consider.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

For many countries in the Americas, and particularly those in the Caribbean region, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is a crucial resource for loans, grant funding and technical assistance. Therese Turner-Jones, the General Manager of the Country Department Caribbean Group of the IDB, helps us to better understand, among other things, scope of the IDB’s work, the Bank’s posture on ICT in the Caribbean, and ICT-related opportunities that we in the region are not leveraging as we should.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The Dutch-speaking country of Suriname is a full member of many regional organisations in the Caribbean, but generally, very little is known about it. In this the second instalment of our Know your neighbours series, Vincentius Kenswil and Anuskha Sonai, of the Digital Talents Academy In Suriname, help us to have a better understanding of Suriname generally, and of course, from an ICT perspective.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Developing the human capital is a crucial element for countries to better leverage ICT. In this our June 2019 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Claire Craig and Clifford Browne, the panel discusses ICT for job creation and economic development in the Caribbean region, and helping girls navigate the digital landscape and fostering greater ICT participation.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

When you say the word ‘Samsung’, we tend to think of smartphones. Samsung is a global leader in the smartphone market, and is the most popular brand in the Caribbean. In speaking with Gianmarco Leri, Product Manager for Samsung Electronics, who focuses in the Caribbean region, we learn about consumer and tech trends that are influencing how Samsung smartphones are evolving, and what Samsung has in store for the Caribbean in the coming months. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Being able to develop software applications can be considered only half of the ICT innovation formula. Being able to design and/or properly configure the hardware to suit the requirements is equally, or even perhaps more, important. In our conversation with Dr Cathy-Ann Radix, of the University of the West Indies, we discuss the need for the Caribbean region to focus of ICT product testing, the missing half of the ICT innovation equation. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The French territory of Guadeloupe, in the Caribbean region, is one that many of us know very little about generally, and even more so with respect to telecommunications and ICT. In the spirit of fostering greater awareness of our Caribbean neighbours, which could lead to opportunities for collaboration and strategic partnerships, Betty Fausta, of Guadeloupetech, provides some preliminary insight into Guadeloupe and its ICT/tech space.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As businesses and countries worldwide position themselves to leverage the Internet economy, that economy is changing. In its latest Global Internet Report, the Internet Society examines the extent to which consolidation of the Internet economy has been occurring. In our discussion with Carl Gahnberg, of the Internet Society, we discuss the key findings of the report, and possible implications for developing countries, and for entrepreneurship and innovation.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Building software solutions that truly work is a challenge at the best of times. We talk with Dennison Daley and Manish Valechha of software development firm, Rovika, which is in Montserrat, where the population is less than 5,500. The duo seem to be punching above their weight, as they have been developing software applications that are being used by the Montserrat and British Virgin Islands Governments, but potentially could have wider take-up across the Caribbean region and in other developing countries.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In recognition of efforts worldwide and across the Caribbean to promote Girls in ICT, and in particular, the Caribbean.Girls.Hack suite of activities, which started since April, we discuss the meaningful inclusion of girls and women in ICT with; Nicole Pitter Patterson of Caribbean.Girls.Hack; Loly Gaitán of the EQUALS Global Partnership; and Naomi Falkenburg, of the International Telecommunication Union.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our May 2019 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Claire Craig and Matthew Cowan, the panel discusses the ride-sharing/ride-hailing business model, popularised by companies, such as Uber. Can it complement the public transport system in the Caribbean, and what might be its social impact?   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

The ultimate goal of telecoms/ICT regulation is to foster the economic and social development of a country. However, focussing on competition, infrastructure and prices might not be in enough. In our interview with Apollo Knights, of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, he discusses the activities the Commission has implemented, to help foster ICT development across that territory.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Perhaps thanks to people such as Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, we tend to think of innovation in terms of big, revolutionary ideas that come about maybe one or twice in a lifetime. Lorenzo Hodges of innovation strategy firm, Plain White Table, begs to differ. In this episode, Lorenzo discusses how innovation can be systematised in organisations, plus critical elements that must be in place in order for innovation to truly become part of an organisation’s culture.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Shoshannah Richards and Rishi Maharaj, the panel discusses:  electronic health records and disaster resilience; and individuals’ right to digital privacy and data protection. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Business intelligence, like data analytics, have become buzz words in today’s workplace. But very few truly understand how to leverage business intelligence as a strategic tool. Raquel Seville of BI Brainz is of the view that every organisation should be applying business intelligence. She gives us a primer on the topic, and shares some advice to help small, through to large enterprises, to better integrate and leverage business intelligence in their organisations.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As much as we might be tired of hearing about it, online threats and cybersecurity have become essential considerations in the digital space. Continuing with our longstanding Expert insight series, we discuss with Sean Slattery, of Caribbean Solutions Lab, some of the latest developments in the threat landscape, along with what Caribbean end-users and organisations can do to better manage those dangers.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although the Caribbean region has made considerable strides in ensuring access to ICTs, e-commerce has remained woefully underdeveloped, which in turn has hindered tech entrepreneurship and innovation. The payment gateway, WiPay, is being seen as offering a much-welcomed e-commerce solution. In this episode, we chat with Aldwyn Wayne, WiPay Founder and CEO, on how WiPay has been able to achieve what the formal banking system in the region has not been able to do. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Liselle Yorke and Ian Mitchell, the panel discusses:  what will it take to go digital in the Caribbean; and the limited access to ICT tenders and projects by regional independent consultants, contractors, and service providers. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

At the best of times, and even for experienced entrepreneurs, starting a business is a gamble and fraught with challenges. At just 28 years old, and having started the online testing platform, EduFocal, seven years ago, Gordon Swaby is one of the few Caribbean tech entrepreneurs who has experienced considerable success in a relatively short space of time. In this podcast episode, we discuss his road to success; the irony of offering education-related services without having a degree; and why accepting failure was important lesson he had to learn.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although we might deny it, many of us are intensely attached to our smartphone, and spend way too much time online or on social media. Although not formally recognised as a disease, digital addiction is a growing area of concern – even in the Caribbean. Clinical neuropsychologist, Dr Rodney Stewart, sheds some light on digital addition: key signs and symptoms of which we should be aware; its connection to other illnesses; and his advice if we are concerned that someone is addicted.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

At one time or another, we all get brilliant ideas for a business, or a solution to a problem; but very few of us actually have the interest, or the passion, to pursue it. The situation can be even more daunting if you would have to work in a field in which you have little or no expertise. Linda Dias, the Chief Architect for the Government of Montserrat, recently launched a booking entertainment software application, Bodio. She shares her story, and why, as someone who is not a software developer and not in the creative arts, she has taken on this venture.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

A few years ago, Open Data was one of the concepts that appeared to be driving innovation across the Caribbean region, but it seems to have disappeared off our radar. Dr Maurice McNaughton, of the University of West Indies, who has been actively involved in Open Data initiatives across the region, helps us to get to the bottom of what happened to Open Data in the Caribbean, and whether it can be revived. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Nerissa Golden and Steven Williams, the panel discusses:  leveraging technology to increase job opportunities; and the opportunities and threats to the Caribbean ICT skills market, given the dynamics of a Big Data-driven world.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Intellectual property and Intellectual Property Protection (IPP) are considered important inputs into the ICT/tech innovation space, which is still underdeveloped in the Caribbean. Attorney at law, Grace Lindo, gives us a quick primer on IPP, and using some examples from Jamaica, she highlights some of the challenges of the current framework, which can hinder ICT/tech innovation.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Net neutrality continues to be a regulatory issue that has not been decisively resolved globally, or in the Caribbean. However, last year, the Bahamas sought to establish a policy position on the matter. We discuss that process and the final outcome with Stephen Bereaux, CEO of the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) in the Bahamas, plus the country’s regulatory environment, and the role URCA is likely to play in the Smart Bahamas/Smart Island initiative that is being implemented.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Innovation has become one of the big buzzwords in the digital age, with organisations, and even countries, aspiring to be ‘more innovative’. But what does that mean and what can we do to better nurture and, ultimately leverage innovation? Based on his illustrious career in Engineering and in Education, Professor Patrick Hosein will be sharing his thoughts on education, innovation, and how innovation can be better fostered in the Caribbean. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this first Community Chat for the year, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Allison James and Steve Spence, the panel discusses: the risks and rewards of the Single Window Platform; and internet Exchange Points (IXPs) and whether or not they can Improve the business case for more data centres in the Caribbean.     Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

It should perhaps come as no surprise that blockchain, cryptocurrency, digital currency, along with other fintech products and services, are still looming large across the Caribbean region. To continue the conversation we started towards the end of 2018, but from a different perspective, and in our first interview for 2019, we discuss the fintech initiative in Barbados that is being spearheaded by the Central Bank of Barbados, with its Acting Deputy Governor, Michelle Doyle-Lowe.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  www.ict-pulse.com/category/podcast/ Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although the word ‘entrepreneur’ might sound sexy, in fact, it is anything but that. Entrepreneurs tend to face several challenges that can bring them to their knees, and even to give up. Barbadian entrepreneur, Khalil Bryan, shares is own journey – the blood sweat and tears, along with the passion, positivity and persistence – which has in resulted Caribbean Transit Solutions, and which may soon be able to offer more cost-effective inter-island travel options across the Caribbean region. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!  

With 2018 coming to a close, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Ingrid Riley and Yacine Khelladi, the Community Chat panel discusses the ICT/tech trends and developments that have emerged, and those it had hoped would have gained more traction, over the past year.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Although Caribbean countries have been implementing e-government projects for well over a decade, generally, citizens still complain about how difficult and time-consuming it is to interact with Government. Bernadette Lewis, the Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, tells us why that is the case, and instead of e-government, why the region should be focussing on migrating towards 21st century government.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Cryptocurrencies, digital currencies and blockchain technology have gained considerable prominence in the last two to three years, and many countries across the Caribbean region have been actively exploring how they can capitalise on the opportunities such technologies afford. Gabriel Abed, one of the co-Founders of fintech firm, Bitt, and a leading voice in the digital currency evolution in the Caribbean, helps us to understand how those technologies can help the Caribbean leapfrog to become digital leaders, and how the ordinary consumer, as well as tech entrepreneurs, should approach that space. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In our increasingly digital world, there has been a growing vigilance by countries worldwide, including those in the Caribbean, with respect to national security. In many jurisdictions, it has resulted in the creation of agencies that have broad and deep powers to collect and retain personal data – not only on their citizens, but on anyone who gets caught their net. Attorney at law, Grace Lindo, discusses the uneasy tension that exists between a State’s concern about national security and an individual’s right to privacy, with a particular focus on what obtains in Jamaica, and the challenges that are being experienced there.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In order to achieve Internet access for all, the Internet must be affordable for all. It is a monumental challenge that requires the support and will of many actors in a country in order to achieve that goal. The Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) has been tracking the progress of countries worldwide towards improved Internet affordability. In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr Dhanaraj Thakur on the latest A4AI Affordability Report, and measures countries can implement to make Internet access more affordable.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Bianca Welds and Angus Steele, join Michele Marius to discuss: emerging innovations, the industries being disrupted and the reaction of the incumbent players; and the state of electronic (e-)waste in the Caribbean. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

Caribbean telecoms and ICT carriers and service providers are crucial players in individual countries, and the region as a whole, realising the benefits of being Information Societies and d digital economies. However, over the years, there have been some contentious issues, which have not been fully resolved, but neither might we be clear on basis of the positions taken by regional telecoms and ICT operators. Teresa Wankin, Secretary General of CANTO, provides some insight into the views and positions of CANTO and its members on matters, including net neutrality, OTT services, disaster risk management, and the future of telecoms in the region.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

“Information Security is not an IT issue, and it can never be owned by IT. It is a management issue…” but it requires everyone across an organisation to be knowledgeable and do their part. These are just a few of the insights shared by David Gittens, President of the Barbados Chapter of the Information Systems Security Association, in this interview to commemorate cybersecurity month. Learn about: the current threat landscape; emerging threats and trends; things were are (still) doing that sabotage our information security both personally and within organisations; along with tips to improve your organisation’s information security.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

A common cry among global software development firms looking to establish an operation in the Caribbean, is the limited availability of suitable talent in the region. However, home-grown firms also face the same challenge. Kevin Khelawan, the Chief Operating Officer of Teleios Systems, a software development firm in Trinidad and Tobago, shares some insights on the firm, but more importantly, how it has managed to retain the talent it needs. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Nerissa Golden and Alvin Augustin, along with podcast host, Michele Marius, discuss:  why content creation is key to unlocking the Caribbean digital economy; and the regulatory challenges that the Internet of Things poses in the Caribbean.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As it relates to tech innovation, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago tend to get much of the attention, but Saint Kitts and Nevis seems to be gearing up to be an innovation powerhouse in the Caribbean region. Dr Ricardo Neil, of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College, who is leading the charge in Saint Kitts, discusses the College’s robotics programme, along with the other cutting-edge work that is being done, plus what other countries can take away from the Saint Kitts experience. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In September 2017, Hurricane Maria decimated several Caribbean countries, but one of the worst hit was Dominica in the Eastern Caribbean. A year on, the country is still recovering. Craig Nesty, head of the Dominica telecoms regulator talks to us about the devastation experienced at the hands of Maria, especially with respect to the telecoms and ICT infrastructure; the state of the rebuilding efforts; and possible learnings and considerations we can all take away.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

As our world becomes more digital, security – cybersecurity, network security, information security, to name a few – are becoming increasingly crucial, especially since inevitably we tend to be several steps behind the cybercriminals. Garfield Gordon, a security expert at Cisco, updates us on some of the trends that are being observed, along with tips and recommendations that organisations can implement to improve their network/IT security.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our latest Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Carolyn Ferguson and Kevon Swift, the panel discusses:  the plans for the switchover from analogue (free-to-air) broadcasting to digital broadcasting in Jamaica, and the state of Internet Governance initiatives across Latin America and the Caribbean.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse Do subscribe and leave us a review!

It is perhaps no surprise that many of us underestimate the importance of domain names and IP addresses, although they are both crucial for us to access to the various websites and online platforms we like to frequent. Albert Daniels, the Stakeholder Engagement Senior Manager for the Caribbean region, of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which manages domain names and IP addresses globally, discusses ICANN, some of the hot topics that are currently being discussed, and why it is important for countries, especially those in the Caribbean, to participate in the ongoing policy development processes facilitated by ICANN. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse   Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

The Caribbean Single ICT Space is an ambitious undertaking that will transform the region’s ICT space as we know it. However, as important as that project is, most people have no idea what it is about, or what to expect. To help us get in the know, Jennifer Britton, of the CARICOM Secretariat, explains what the Single ICT Space is all about, shares with us a few of the upcoming milestones, and why it is crucial for the countries of the region to also transition to a digital economy. Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at ICT Pulse   Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

The development of global telecoms and ICT policy and standards is the remit of several organisations, but the most important – the one that tends to have the greatest impact – is the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). However, it is somewhat surprising that even among those who pride themselves on being versed in the tech field, many are not familiar with the ITU, nor the work it has done in the Caribbean region. In speaking with Cleveland Thomas, the ITU Area Representative for the Caribbean, he gives some insight into the ITU’s focus globally, plus the organisation’s efforts and priorities in the Caribbean region.   Show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found on ICT Pulse   Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

In this our latest Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Ayanna Samuels, and Gerard Best, the panel discusses:  gender equity in STEM and in the ICT sector in the Caribbean;  community networks, and whether they can benefit the region; and whether the Caribbean is as ready as it says it is for innovation. Useful links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found at  http://bit.ly/2MgGrED   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

Starting a business, regardless of the field, is not for the faint of heart. It requires grit, stick-to-itiveness – to not give up when the going gets tough. Jamaican tech entrepreneur, Larren Peart, of Blue Dot Data Intelligence, has been able to build a cutting edge business – bringing first-world technologies and solutions to Caribbean businesses. In our conversation with Larren, he pulls back the veil on what it takes not only to start, but also to grow, a business. Useful links to things mentioned during the episode can be found at  http://bit.ly/2M5sYyJ   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!    

Outside of Government, the use of country code top level domains (ccTLDs), such as .ag; .lc, .jm and .tt, are not popular in the Caribbean. Further many Caribbean countries do not directly manage their own ccTLDs, and so may not fully appreciate the value of that resource. One of the exceptions is Trinidad and Tobago. In this episode, we talk to Professor Patrick Hosein, of the Trinidad and Tobago Network Information Centre (TTNIC), on managing the .tt domain extension, and how TTNIC has been influencing how the Internet and Internet Governance continues to develop in Trinidad and Tobago. Useful links to things mentioned during the episode can be found at  http://bit.ly/2LQBUYB   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!  

For many people, the career path they envisaged whilst still in high school or even university, no way resembles the journey they actually experienced. Such is the case with Peter Harrison, Chairman and President of the Palisadoes Foundation, who shares his own journey from Jamaica, to living and working in Silicon Valley at some of the biggest tech companies in the world; and how he is trying to help those coming up to have extraordinary career adventures of their own. Useful links and show notes can be found at our website, ICT Pulse

With over 20 countries in the Caribbean region, it is crucial as developing countries and Small Island Developing States, which inherently are disadvantaged, that we ensure that our needs and concerns are considered in the global Internet conversations, and the decisions that ultimately are made. In our conversation with Kerrie-Ann Vassall-Richards, an Advisory Council Member of ARIN, we discuss that organisation, its role with respect to the Internet, and how the Caribbean region can participate more actively in Internet policy discussions. Show notes can be found in the accompanying article

A dozen years ago, the tech entrepreneurship space in the Caribbean is not like it is now. At that time, techies were considered outliers – an exotic and raggedly bunch who were trying to make their pipe dreams come true. In Jamaica, the long-sunning event Kingston BETA, organised by Ingrid Riley, created a safe space for techies to share ideas, learn and network. Fast forward to today, technology and innovation are being actively encouraged in schools and by policymakers, and may even be considered mainstream. With Kingston BETA’s final staging in June, after 11 years, we sit with Ingrid Riley to discuss her own journey, the legacy of Kingston BETA, and what might in the cards for the future. Show notes for this episode can be found at ICT Pulse

The classification, Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which includes most Caribbean countries, has far-reaching implications with respect to not only the broad range of vulnerabilities such countries face, but also the extent to which they can be competitive. Tracy Hackshaw, a longstanding advocate for greater SIDS recognition, helps us better understand why it is so important to focus on SIDS, the impact on ICT, and what we can do to improve the situation SIDS face. Show notes and useful links can be found on the ICT Pulse Podcast page Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

E-commerce has become a crucial payment channel for both online and brick-and-mortar businesses, and its use is beginning to grow across the Caribbean region. More importantly, a critical element of the ecosystem that underpins an e-commerce facility is available in the Caribbean, in the form of CX Pay, an payment gateway provider located in Curaçao. In our conversation with Luis Santine, of CX Pay, we discuss, among other things: what might be limiting the roll-out and use of e-commerce by Caribbean businesses; what he thinks of PayPal, plus alternative online payment options that do not require credit cards which businesses could consider.   Do subscribe to the show!!\

Although many an entrepreneur can have a wonderful and exciting business idea that they swear will be the next Facebook or Google, few are prepared to plunge their lifesavings to make the idea come to life. Melarka Williams of Ingenuity Technologies in Jamaica did just that – and not only lives to tell the tale, but has also created recognised tech innovation company. In our interview with Melarka, he shares some insight into why he and Ingenuity Technologies have thrived when others have failed; and now that some financial success has been achieved, what now drives him, and what are some of his goals for the future. Show notes and useful links can be found at ICT Pulse   Don't forget to subscribe to be immediately updated on new episodes!

Change can be achieved when you lead from in front, but also when you lead from behind, as is the case with CIVIC, the Caribbean ICT Stakeholders Virtual Community. Here, Michele Marius chats with the group’s moderator, Yacine Khelladi, to learn how CIVIC has become such an integral part of the region’s ICT/tech scene, along with his thoughts on the affordability of Internet service in the Caribbean, and why Open Data in the region is not as developed as it should be. Also, let's hear from you on two questions posed during the discussion: Why isn’t civil society in the English-speaking Caribbean as developed, or as engaged, in discussions on important issues generally, and more specifically, with respect to telecoms and ICT? What happened to the Open Data/knowledge management platform that was being implemented in Barbados? Was it successfully rolled out? Was it abandoned?   Don't forget to subscribe!

In this our second Community Chat, Michele Marius, with members of the Caribbean ICT/tech community, Carolyn Ferguson, and Dr Kieron Swift, discuss: the future of work in the Caribbean – how technology is changing the workplace; the introduction of 10 digit dialling in Jamaica; and why does it appear that in many Caribbean countries, provisions are being included in recently proposed ICT-related legislation that seek to criminalise, or otherwise impinge upon, some of our basic or constitutional rights?   Don't forget to subscribe to this show!

Since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, many countries worldwide, including those in the Caribbean region have been struggling to jumpstart their economies, and believe that offshore outsourcing/business process outsourcing (BPO) could be the solution. In the podcast episode, Michele Marius speaks with Rejo Sam, of Avasant, one of the leading advisors in the outsourcing space, on what the Caribbean countries need to do to continue to grow their BPO industries well into the future.  

Cloud computing has been popular for over 10 years, but it can be argued that it still has not taken off among Caribbean businesses, especially among MSMEs, which are likely to benefit considerably from adopting it. Michele Marius speaks with Scott MacKenzie, CEO of Cloud Carib, who highlights this Caribbean-based operation; key cloud trends observed in the Caribbean region; five questions a firm should ask if it is looking to secure cloud services; and more…   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

With the new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) coming into force in the European Union (EU) in less than 10 days, Attorney-at-Law, Bartlett Morgan, speaks with Michele Marius on what businesses located outside the EU can expect when the GDPR becomes effective, and gives some advice on what those businesses should be doing to better position themselves for the GDPR.   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

In this our first Community Chat, Kerrie-Ann Vassall-Richards, Gerard Best and Michele Marius discuss Caribbean telecoms infrastructure/network resiliency – with the 2018 hurricane season soon to begin; Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) in the region; and the European Union’s new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), with members of the Caribbean ICT/tech community.   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

With its 14th staging is less than a month away, the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF) is the oldest regional meeting of its kind worldwide. Nigel Cassimire, one of the key organisers of the CIGF, explains why it is important for all of us to take a greater interest in the ongoing Internet Governance discussions, and shares what he believes are the biggest issues that are being grappled with globally, plus  those to which the Caribbean should be paying greater attention.   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

In recognition of Girls of ICT Day 2018, here is our interview with powerhouse and mogul-in-the-making, Telojo Valerie Onu, a well-respected ICT and management consultant and business owner, who was recently quoted in Forbes magazine. She talks about, among other things, her entrepreneurial journey, her experience as a woman in business and in tech, and what she thinks the future holds for blockchain technology, fintech and cryptocurrencies.

To kick off the ICT Pulse Podcast, we spent some time chatting with Shernon Osepa, of the Internet Society, on how the Caribbean can develop its Internet economy, and strengthen its Internet infrastructure, especially in the face of the natural disasters that are regularly experienced.

A brief introduction to the ICT Pulse Podcast, by the show creator, Michele Marius   Podcast episodes will be released on Wednesdays, and will be accompanied by a short article with notes on the show on our website, ict-pulse.com   Don't forget to subscribe to the show!