Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Get all the information you need
to register for District Convention 2024.
Make your way to Jamaica and come experience DCON vibes in our tropical paradise at the 2024 Kiwanis Eastern Canada & Caribbean District Convention in Montego Bay, Jamaica, from May 16-18, 2024.
A fun-filled, informative adventure awaits you at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. You don’t want to miss out on this exciting opportunity, so register early and give yourself a chance to win a prize, reserve your room and make your travel plans. We look forward to hosting you.
Stay tuned to this website for information or developments on the Convention.
Take a look at the Montego Bay Convention Centre
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF THE EARLY BIRD PRIZES!!
Dione Duncan - KC Barbican, Div. 23Central – Jamaica who won the prize for the Hilton Rose Hall Hotel.
Alexandra Zidee – KC Le Genipa, Div. 27A Creole Caribbean Amozonie, who won the prize for the Holiday Inn Hotel.
Winners will be contacted by Host Country Chair Sheila Heaven
“For Hotel Accommodation Participants should call hotels directly to check for availability and price as our contracts with both are now closed”.
Explore the scheduled paid service between Kingston and Montego Bay offered by Knutsford Express. View the schedule here
The Electronic C5 form is required for all international passengers traveling to Jamaica. The C5 form is also known as the Jamaica Immigration Form or the Immigration/Customs C5 Card. It is a combination of the customs and immigration forms, and is required to provide information about the traveler and their reason for visiting Jamaica.
Click here to access the website to complete this form.
Shuttle service between hotels and the Convention Centre will be provided free of cost to all registered Kiwanians.
For DCON2024 Participants Upon arrival in Kingston and in need of ground transportation to Montego Bay, we suggest considering the following reputable companies:
Tel: 876-940-0064
Email: info@knutsfordexpress.com
Website: www.knutsfordexpress.com
I am so pleased to be able to welcome you to this, the 2024 Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District convention.
The convention planning committee has done a fantastic job in order to welcome you here to beautiful Montego Bay
Jamaica and my congratulations go out to the team.
this year and will continue to do my very best to support what I believe is the best and most diverse district in
Kiwanis. So, please enjoy all that this convention has to offer, the fellowship, the learning opportunities, the
networking, Kiwanis business, and of course, the FUN. I hope your convention experience is a great one and please,
when you see me, stop me and say hello, I really want to meet you.
Yours in Kiwanis Service,
John Chave
Governor 2023 -2024
On behalf of the Government and hospitable people of Jamaica, it is indeed my pleasure to welcome the Kiwanians of Eastern Canada and the Caribbean (EC&C) to the number one visitor destination in the region. Jamaica is ideally suited for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions for the business traveller as much as it is a paradise for those looking for a wide range of events and attractions to enjoy at leisure.
Hon. Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP
Minister of Tourism
It is my esteemed pleasure to extend warmest greetings as you attend Convention 2024 in sunny Montego Bay, Jamaica.
I am delighted that you are here to enjoy the magic of Jamaica, the ideal location for a fun-filled convention and vacation in one.
I encourage you to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings and feel the warmth and friendliness of our people. Enjoy the pulsating reggae beats and authentic Jamaican cuisine as you capture the creativity of nature in this little island.
Pam Rodney-White
Governor Elect
On behalf our District Convention Committee, it is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm greeting to all of you, fellow Kiwanians guests and friends, to our Eastern Canada & Caribbean District Convention in Montego Bay, Jamaica, themed "One Luv, One Vybz, One Passion."
I am happy to inform you that this convention is expected to be engaging and educational, as you will have access to an invaluable forum. Our informative speakers will inspire you, and our forums and workshops offer opportunities.
Welcome!
Edwin C. Thompson
Chairman: District Convention Committee
As Host Country Chair I feel very proud, privileged, yet humbled, to welcome you all to our EC&C District Convention 2024 and to our beautiful island -Jamaica. The warm and friendly City of Montego Bay – the tourism mecca of the Caribbean, is ready to receive you!
Montego Bay – Jamaica, is known for its warm hospitality and is a city where business and pleasure can be wrapped up in one great package.
Sheila J Heaven
Host Country Chair – EC&C DCON2024
Jamaica has some of the most magnificent beaches in the world. From the Seven Mile Beach in Negril to the Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay, visitors have endless opportunities to soak up the sun, swim in crystal clear waters, and indulge in the sandy terrain.
Jamaicans are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. They are always willing to lend a helping hand, and their infectious laughter and positive energy create an inviting atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home.
Jamaica's cuisine is a unique fusion of African, Spanish, and British influences, resulting in a diverse range of flavors and spices. From the world-famous jerk chicken to the mouth-watering seafood dishes, your taste buds will be delighted with the authentic Jamaican cuisine.
Jamaica has a rich cultural heritage that is visible in its art, music, and dance. The island is the birthplace of reggae music, and its pulsating beats can be heard and felt throughout the island. Visitors can also explore museums, art galleries, and historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of Jamaica's unique culture.
Jamaica offers a wide range of adventure activities for visitors, such as hiking lush mountains, visiting waterfalls, zip-lining through the forest, and exploring underground caves. There is something for everyone!
Jamaica has a tropical climate that is pleasant throughout the year. Visitors can expect warm temperatures, refreshing breezes, and plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal destination for those who want to escape the cold.
Why should you attend
District Convention 2024 in Montego Bay Jamaica
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with other Kiwanis members from across the region, exchange ideas, and build relationships.
Attendees will hear from inspiring guest speakers who will share their stories and motivate them towards greater personal and collective success.
Attendees will have access to resources, tools, and training sessions that can help them advance their careers and make a difference in their communities.
The convention will offer a range of activities and events, including keynote speaker presentations, workshops, social gatherings, and community service projects, allowing members to connect and engage further.
The convention provides an opportunity for attendees to reflect, learn and grow as individuals by interacting with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Lastly, the Kiwanis district convention is a time when attendees can have a great time with colleagues, enjoying the camaraderie, laughter, and great Jamaican cuisine. It is an experience not to be missed!
Marjorie Buck, Lt. Governor
Chair of the Achievement and Awards
Marj has been a member of the Kiwanis for 31 years serving in a variety of positions, in her club’s president, secretary, treasurer and director. She first served as a Lt. Governor in 2003/2004 and is presently serving in the position again in Division 11 Loyalist of our District. Marj elected as District Trustee from Region C to serve the three-year term of 2016 to 2019.
Marj has been involved with the Achievement and Awards committee for over five years, the last three years she has served as the Chair of this committee. She has also served on other District Committee over the years including most recently the Long-Range Planning Committee and the Past Lieutenant Governors Committee,
Leighton " Fyah " McKnight
The current Trustee for Region G. He has been a dedicated Kiwanian for over 30 years, a Distinguished Lieutenant Governor of Excellence and renowned expert presenter.
Phil Rossy
is a 24 year member of the Kiwanis Club of Ottawa and Kiwanis Club of Kanata-Stittsville in Ottawa, Ontario Canada. He has served Kiwanis in multiple roles at the Club, Division, District and International levels since 2000. Phil has been the District Chair for Membership and Growth for EC&C since 2017 and continues to advocate for strong membership and growth in our Clubs and Divisions. Phil is married to “Lady D”, and has 3 grown children and 6 grandchildren. He continues to work in education and serves Kiwanis as a Servant Leader.
DLG Donna Kelso
Joined Seaway Kiwanis in Sarnia, Ontario twenty years ago. During that time, Donna served as club secretary and produced the club bulletin for many years. In 2016 she was elected club president for a two-year term. This led to her appointment as LG also for a two-year term. As LG, she was responsible for opening a new club in Division 3 during COVID lockdown. What a rewarding experience! In the spring of 2023, it was an honour to be asked to become one of the ten members on the Board of Directors for the Kiwanis Foundation of Canada. There is so much to learn and so much to share. Find out in this forum how the Kiwanis Foundation of Canada can help your club to serve your community and to support students succeed in their educational journey.
Angelo Ciardella
District Administrator
is the Immediate Past President and Membership Chair of the Kiwanis Club of Windsor, Advisor to University of Windsor CKI, and serves as District Administrator for Eastern Canada CKI. He has served on the Kiwanis International Amplify Committee and is a Kiwanis Amplify Mentor. Lieutenant Governor Elect for Div. 3 St. Clair Bluewater, Angelo is very honored to serve in the 2024-2025 class of LGs.
Beverly Thompson
Beverley, a Kiwanian for over 33 years is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of New Kingston Division 23 East and shares dual membership with the Kiwanis Club of Barbican Division 23 Central.
She is a club coach, a Certified Leadership Education Trainer, and the Youth Protection Manager for the E.C.C. District.
As a true Servant Leader her motto is “If it is to be, it is up to Me”
Deborah P. Manning
Deborah Manning is a trained Social Worker who holds both a Bachelors and a Master Degree in Social Work Practice from the University of the West Indies Mona.
She has a passion for human rights advocacy and working with vulnerable populations. Mrs. Manning spent 7 years in the field of HIV/AIDS where she worked with a team to implement interventions for children affected by and infected with HIV/AIDS and formalized training components for their caregivers and parents.
Deborah has been employed to the Jamaican Association on Intellectual Disabilities since September 2008, where she works with the multidisciplinary team of professionals to provide interventions aimed at improving the quality of lives of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and their families.
Cynthia Blackman
Vice Governor
Cynthia Blackman has been a Kiwanian for twenty-four (24) years and is an active member of three (3) Kiwanis clubs: The Kiwanis Club Pride of Barbados, Barbados Benevolence, and the Eye of the Tiger E-Kiwanis Club. In 2020-2021, Cynthia served as the Lieutenant Governor of Division 27 Caribbean, despite the challenge of the pandemic, five (5) new Kiwanis clubs were organized, and the Division finished the year with a net growth of 150 members: the second highest in the district. It was also the first time that all twelve (12) eligible clubs in the Division earned the distinguished status.
As a result of Cynthia's outstanding leadership of the Division, she was recognized with the Distinguished Lieutenant Governor of Excellence award; the only person in Barbados and the Division to receive this award to date. Cynthia is presently a Certified Club Leadership Education Trainer, Certified Club Opener and Coach and a Kiwanis International Club Coach Trainer for New Clubs.
Cynthia is married to Distinguished President Michael and is the mother of a sixteen-year-old son, Mihaley. She is currently employed as the Customer Experience Manager at a leading Insurance Company in Barbados.
She is guided by the quote, "We can choose to be affected by the world or we can choose to affect the world.” ~Heidi Wills
Eileen Hooper-Donaldson Member since 1994
Kiwanis: Lieutenant Governor (2016-17) Division 23East. Currently serving as the Eastern Canada and Caribbean (EC&C) Leadership Development Coordinator, as lead trainer for the District Club Leadership Education Train the Trainers. At the 2018 District Convention a Co-Presenter on Membership Growth & Engagement. Presenter at the 2022 District Convention on Tips and Tricks to Leadership. 2007 Co-Chaired Communication District Convention Jamaica. Attended 13 District conventions and 6 International conventions. DLG Eileen Service to Kiwanis “Play it Forward.” Believes in giving back and a big supporter to children in need to make the impossible – possible.
Position Work: Senior Recruitment & Enrolment Advisor at The University of The Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC). Kingston, Jamaica.
Lloyd Distant Jr.
DLG Lloyd Distant had the privilege of being exposed to Kiwanis at an early age when his father became a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Downtown Kingston. Lloyd first became a full member of the K family when he became a Charter member of the Key Club of Campion College. He would later transition into Circle K where he was eventually elected Lt. Governor for the Caribbean Division in 1984, and was subsequently elected to the post of Governor, Circle K District of E. C. & C. for the 1985-1986 administrative year.
He joined the Kiwanis Club of Downtown Kingston in the mid-90’s and was elected President for the 2003-2004 Administrative year.
In 2014-2015, the year Kiwanis celebrated its 100th Anniversary, Lloyd had the fortune to serve Division 23 East as its Lt. Governor. Lloyd was elected by his fellow Lt. Governors as their Class President, and at the end of the year he was amongst the 5 Lt. Governors recognized as “Distinguished”. Following his year as Lt. Governor he was recruited as Vice Chair for the EC&C Districts Formula team and was subsequently appointed the District Chair by Kiwanis International. Shortly thereafter, he also had the honor of being appointed the EC&C District Chair for the I-Plan.
An entrepreneur at heart, DLG Lloyd is a Director of several businesses, is a Past President of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, and a Justice of the Peace for the parish of St. Andrew.
This father of 2 daughters is an avid sports enthusiast. His personal motto - The greatest gift one can bestow on another is the gift of a good example - is derived from the underlying theme in the second objective of Kiwanis International.
Melford Clarke
Distinguished Governor
Melford Clarke (Mel) has served the Kiwanis Club of Cable Beach for thirty-five years and was appointed president in 1995-1996. He served his Club, Division and District in all of the major positions.
In 2004-2005, he earned the status of Distinguished Lieutenant Governor. During the period 2007 -2016 he served as the District Administrator for the Kiwanis family of Service Leadership Programs clubs in the Bahamas. In 2016 he became EC&C Vice Governor and served as Governor Elect and later District Governor in 2018-2019. His term ended with the District attaining distinguished status. His service to his local community was highlight with him receiving a Distinguished Service Medal from The Commonwealth of The Bahamas Government during the 2022 National Heroes ceremony.
Mel is an Anglican and have three children. Mel currently serves as the Kiwanis Children’s Fund District chairperson, where his objective is the encouragement of clubs to enhance the Kiwanis Children’s Fund global initiatives.
Merdina Callum
Merdina Callum has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of New Kingston for 18 years and has served in various positions at club, division and district level.
She has been the chairman of the Signature Project since 2021.
Mary Elen Trimble
Member of Scarborough (2023) and East York Kiwanis Club (1989) DP Lieutenant Governor of Division 9 (2019-2023)
Chartered Uxbridge Kiwanis Club (2021)
Chartered Scarborough (2023)
Member District Membership and Club Open Committee (2022-2023) Member of District Strategic Planning Committee (2023-2024) Director and Chair of three not-for-profits
Co-chair of the District Convention 2026 in Toronto
Trustee elect Region B (2024-2027) Retired bank executive
Resides in Toronto (East York)
Karen Tomlinson
Karen has served at the Club, Division and District Levels in Kiwanis, including roles as Bulletin Editor, Public Relations, Vice-Chairman for the Marketing & Public Relations Host Planning Committee for the EC&C District Convention held in May 2018 in Montego Bay, and as the ADA, PR & Kiwanis Family Relations for CKI, Caribbean District, receiving several awards over the years.
She has a BSc. in Management Studies, an MBA, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers. She was trained to be a Sales Trainer by Canadian banks Scotiabank and RBC Royal Bank and received certification from the Maxwell Leadership Team in 2020 as a Speaker, Trainer, and Coach. She also completed the Kiwanis Amplify Leadership Programme in 2023.
Karen has over 30 years of experience in Banking and specifically, in the areas of Leadership & Growth of People, Sales Training & Support, and Program & Product Development, through her various roles which have included Branch Manager, Sales Manager, Director of Retail Banking, and Vice-President for Sales & Service Support. She now has her own company KT Training Solutions through which she offers Leadership and Sales Training and considers adding value to others through training to be her passion and purpose.
Naketa S. West
Naketa West is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) holding a Master of Science Degree in Psychology and Criminology from the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, along with a postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from the Mona School of Business Management. With a wealth of experience exceeding 15 years in human and social development, Naketa has established a robust track record collaborating with local and international organizations across both private and public sectors. Her focus has been on developing and implementing impactful programs and interventions that empower youth, teachers, and professionals in Jamaica, as well as the broader Caribbean and Latin American region. Her career journey has encompassed pivotal roles at the Trust for the Americas, UNESCO Office of the Caribbean, German Development Agency, Victoria Mutual Foundation, Ministry of Education and Youth, and the National Youth Service. Notably, she served as the youngest Executive Director for the National Youth Service.
Naketa's leadership extends beyond the boardroom, as she has successfully led team-building and empowerment sessions with notable entities such as Pricesmart, Jamaica National Bank, Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC), and various clubs within the local Kiwanis movement.
DLG Lisa Marie Blake-Golding
DLG Lisa Marie Blake-Golding joined the Kiwanis family as a student at the
Wolmers Girls School and later served as President of Wolmers High school Key
Club for 2 consecutive years under the guidance of her brother who was at the
time a Lieutenant Governor for Key Club. The years spent in Key Clubs were
instrumental in honing her desire to serve and to lead. She went on to join the
Circle K family and to work with an unofficial group of past Circle Kers in the early
1990’s who called themselves Circle K Alumni.
She moved to Montego Bay and joined the Kiwanis Club of Montego Bay in 2003.
Having served in several positions in the club, she was elected President for
2009/2010 administrative year and was designated Distinguished President based
on the outstanding work of the club. She later served as Lieutenant Governor for
Division 25 in 2014, as Public Relations Coordinator for the ECC District (2016 –
2019) and as Chairman of the Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District
Convention in 2018. DLG Lisa is a public speaker and transformational change
manager and holds a Masters Degree in communication with specialization in
social and behavioural change.
A Justice of the Peace for the parish of St James and a trained mediator, DLG Lisa
lectured for many years in the areas of Communications, Public Relations and
English with the Montego Bay Community College and in Culture, Entertainment
and Media at the UWI Western Jamaica Campus.
Steve Henry
is the Founder and and CEO of ScalePoynt Solutions, focused on
scaling startups for private equity exits. He is a former startup CEO, and
former executive in consulting and banking, and participated in over 12
Merger & Acquisition (M&A) transactions.
Steve is currently a Member of the Board of the Kiwanis Club of Toronto
Foundation and serves as the Board Treasurer.
Link to Linkedin: Profile and company website: https://www.scalepoynt.io/
Jim Kennedy
has been in the financial services industry for over 45 years.
In that time he has held several sales and corporate executive roles.
Currently, Jim runs his own practice focusing on estate and retirement
planning for individuals and small businesses.
Jim is a member of the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club of Toronto and
he is also very active in multiple charitable and industry organizations as
either a Committee or Board member. In his spare time, Jim enjoys spending
quality time with his 4 grandchildren
Link to Linkedin: Profile
Emma Boghossian
is a B2B marketing executive with 17 years of diverse
experience in sectors such as Architectural Engineering and Construction
(AEC), energy, technology, life sciences, and real estate. Her expertise,
deeply rooted in both startup environments and large public organizations,
has been honed through navigating complex market landscapes. Emma is the
founder of Metrix Marketing Ltd., an agency renowned for its expertise in
marketing strategy, branding, and creative content strategy development.
Currently serving as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer, Emma provides
top-tier marketing support to a variety of clients, showcasing her
versatility and depth of knowledge. Leveraging her understanding of market
trends, consumer behaviour, and branding psychology, Emma crafts strategies
that not only elevate brand visibility but also forge strong emotional
connections with customers
Emma is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Toronto and is the Committee Chair
of the Marketing and Strategy Committee.
Link for Linkedin: Profile and company website: https://www.metrixmktg.com/
Alena Sviderskaia
is a leadership coach, speaker, and facilitator. She holds
a degree in psychology from McGill University and is an ICF-certified coach.
She is the creator of the successful "Empowered to Lead" program and
co-creator of a W2 - Work and Wellness amplified program. Alena draws from
her 10+ years of a corporate career to help organizations become better
places to work by turning managers into leaders and tapping into innate
employee strengths to create a culture of passion and full engagement.
Alena is a member of the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club of Toronto
Foundation and the Committee Chair of Kiwanis Cares.
Link to Linkedin: Profile and company website https://alenasviderskaia.com/