Shows
ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 354: 2025 update on the state of ICT development in St Kitts and Nevis, with Rodney BrowneWe are relaunching our Know Your Neighbour series, in which we explore the state of the telecoms and ICT development in Caribbean countries. We kick off this 2025 update with Saint Kitts and Nevis, officially the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis. With our guest, Rodney Browne, of eCaribbean Limited, we discuss, among other things, * the current state of telecoms and broadband internet, including quality of service and affordability; * the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the country’s ICT sector; * the country’s receptiveness to digital currencies/ cryptocurrencies and AI; and * ...2025-06-041h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICT 351: The art of the possible with AI in the Caribbean, with Dr Curtis Charles of the UWI Five Islands CampusThanks to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Caribbean and other developing countries have the potential to accelerate their development and economic diversification, as well as increase competitiveness through technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things. With Dr Curtis Charles, of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Five Islands Campus, and a key driver of the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference, we discuss: * the upcoming 2025 AI Research Conference scheduled for the end of June; * the AI-related opportunities that Caribbean countries should more aggressively pursue; * ways in which Caribbean countries can to...2025-05-141h 04ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 337: Turbocharging Trinidad and Tobago’s ICT exports sector via D’Hub, with Devindra RamnarineIn response to the goal of doubling the ICT sector’s contribution to Trinidad and Tobago’s GDP, the Developers Hub, more commonly known as D’Hub, offers training, access to tools, as well as income and networking opportunities to local developers and citizens interested in ICT. With Devindra Ramnarine, a Digital Transformation Adviser at the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Trinidad and Tobago, and one of the main architects of D’Hub, we discuss this innovative platform, including, * the problem D’Hub is trying to solve; * the specific government or societal challenges that are being addre...2025-02-0554 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 333: 2024 end-of-year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn this our final Community Chat and final episode for 2024, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Financial and Impact Innovator, Digital Economist and Digital Transformation Expert, Telly Valerie Onu, and International Consultant, Carlton Samuels, the panel discusses the ICT/technology trends and developments that were evident across the Caribbean region in 2024, and what might be in store in 2025. 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...2024-12-181h 20ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 331: The internet we should want in 2024 and beyond, with Rodney Taylor of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union In our last instalment of the year in our series, The Internet we should want in 2024 and beyond, we are joined by Rodney Taylor, the Secretary-General (SG) of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU). In a candid conversation, the SG provides a regional perspective on the role the internet should be playing in the Caribbean region. He also shares his thoughts on, among other things: * could the CARICOM Single ICT Space become irrelevant even before it is fully realised; * the region’s digital economy; * the impact, if any, the Internet of Things could have in the re...2024-12-041h 01ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 330: Online advertising, learning and collaboration and Digicel’s latest digital transformation reportIn our November 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Gerry George, an ICT professional and policy expert who is based in Saint Lucia, and IT Specialist, Researcher and Digital Analyst Matthew Cowen, who is based in Martinique, the panel discusses: * Are Caribbean businesses really benefitting from online advertising? * Learning and development – promoting a culture of learning and collaboration within our space; and * Digicel’s 2024 Caribbean Research Report and Maturity Guide. The episode, show notes and links to some of the things mentioned during the episode can be found...2024-11-271h 11ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 326: Our continuing vulnerability to cyberattacks, ESG versus CSR versus ICT, and Caribbean consultants becoming true digital nomadsIn our October 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Debbie Jollie, the Stammering Communicator who is based in Trinidad and Tobago, and Technology Architect and Digital Transformation Consultant, Garfield Gordon, of Jamaica, the panel discusses: * our continuing vulnerability to cyberattacks; * ESG versus CSR and the effects on ICT; and * Caribbean consultants becoming true 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/) Enjo...2024-10-301h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 323: Developing technology as an export in the Caribbean region, with Vashti Maharaj of the Commonwealth SecretariatAlmost 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 agreeme...2024-10-0936 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 306: Readying the workforce for AI, matching local tech expertise with the local job market, and STEM exams in the CaribbeanIn 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 b...2024-06-121h 05ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 295: Digital of persons with disabilities, crime prevention versus mass surveillanceIn this our March 2024 Community Chat, and with members of the Caribbean tech community, Telecommunications/ICT Consultant, Lendon Telesford and Perro Perry Holloway, of the Barbados National Organisation of the Disabled (BARNOD Inc.), 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-p...2024-03-2758 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 290: Governments and content creation, network infrastructure resilience, and regulating digital mediaIn 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 s...2024-02-2159 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 283: 2023 end-of-year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn 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 expect...2023-12-2057 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 276: Achieving 25 by 2025 and how ICT can be leveraged to deeper regional integration, with Dr Patrick Antoine of the CARICOM Private Sector OrganisationAs 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 realisa...2023-11-0158 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 269: Digital resilience at work and in life, with Natalie MaharajDigital 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 d...2023-09-131h 04ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 264: From Internet Governance to digitally enabled – an update, with Nigel Cassimire of the Caribbean Telecommunications UnionWith 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...2023-08-091h 04ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 263: Learning from Nigeria’s experience in strengthening its tech entrepreneurship ecosystem, with Oswald Osaretin GuobadiaWith 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...2023-08-0245 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 262: Data ethics and the evolving world of privacy and data protection, with Rishi MaharajPrivacy 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 c...2023-07-2651 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 261: Extracting value from AI and nurturing software development in the Caribbean regionIn 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-pul...2023-07-1953 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 260: Digital diplomacy and beyond, strengthening the links between Africa and the Caribbean region in telecoms and ICT, with the African Telecommunications Union and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union 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 cur...2023-07-1254 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 259: 2023 cyber insurance update, with Max Pragnell of Gallagher Insurance BrokersCyber 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; and2023-07-0549 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 258: The digital deletion of Caribbean culture and heritage, with Dr Kris RampersadIncreasingly, 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.i...2023-06-2856 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 257: Accelerating the development of Guyana’s telecoms sector, with Dela Britton, of the Public Utilities Commission (Guyana)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...2023-06-2155 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 256: The new digital landscape and Caribbean Fiction, e-government in the Caribbean, and becoming a cashless societyIn our June 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...2023-06-141h 09ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 255: Exploring fintech in the Dutch CaribbeanContinuing 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...2023-06-071h 02ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 254: Digital Inclusion, and why solving it is beyond telecoms, with Kwesi Prescod and Yacine KhelladiThe 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 n...2023-05-311h 00ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 253: Can we make a business case for 5G deployment in the Caribbean?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, de...2023-05-2457 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 252: Becoming a digital society, local context and tech implementation, and digital customer experience problemsIn 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 a...2023-05-171h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 251: Digital payment fraud, with Eldred F Garcia of First Atlantic CommerceWhen 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 so...2023-05-1053 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 250: 2023 Expert Insight update on cyber threats and security in the Caribbean, with Edward Millington of CariSec GlobalIn 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...2023-05-0354 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 249: Unpacking the legal issues surrounding blockchain technology, with Alexander Gafoor of FinTechTTAccording 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...2023-04-2643 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 248: AI and content development, tech and inequality to girls and the quality of Caribbean telecoms servicesIn 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...2023-04-191h 04ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 247: 2023 Caribbean outsourcing update and trends, with Kirk Laughlin, of Nearshore AmericasGlobally, 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...2023-04-1244 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 246: Telecommunications regulation, is it still needed in our increasingly digital world?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. 2023-04-051h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 245: Facilitating financial inclusion whilst building a lifestyle platform, with John-Matthew Sinclair of LynkLynk, 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...2023-03-2954 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 244: The state of innovation/R&D and payment technology, and where are the Caribbean women in tech?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...2023-03-2258 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 243: 2023 Expert Insight update on cyber threats and security in the Caribbean, with Sean Slattery of Caribbean Solutions LabIn 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...2023-03-151h 02ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 242: Breaking the glass ceiling in Data ScienceIn 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...2023-03-0854 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 241: AI in the workplace and in society and some of the tough conversations we need to have, with Kevan Rajaram, of PwC CaribbeanArtificial 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 b...2023-03-0155 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 240: An update on data protection and privacy since GDPR, with Bartlett MorganPrivacy 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 l...2023-02-221h 06ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 239: Digitising the building approval process, remote work in 2023, and the security of critical servicesIn 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/) Enjoye...2023-02-151h 07ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 238: Fintech in the Caribbean region, from an Economist’s perspective, with Dr Justin RamTo 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...2023-02-081h 15ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 237: Revisiting tech innovation in the Caribbean region and at TTLAB in Trinidad and TobagoCircling 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...2023-02-011h 18ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 236: AI and machine learning, the IT profession, and are we going sour on big tech?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 lea...2023-01-251h 10ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 235: Leveraging fintech for the social good, with Miguel Adwin of Fimi Market Inc.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...2023-01-181h 02ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 234: 2022 end of year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn 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! ...2022-12-141h 29ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 233: 2022 Expert Insight update on cyber threats and security in the Caribbean, with Obika Gellineau of KPMG Trinidad and TobagoIn 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.i...2022-12-071h 07ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 232: FTX, Bitcoin, stablecoin, the Caribbean region and the global state of cryptoCryptocurrencies 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...2022-11-301h 19ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 231: Automation software, and the threats and opportunities for the region; and IXPs, to build and develop the Caribbean's Critical Internet InfrastructureIn 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 a...2022-11-231h 09ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 230: Fintech the WiPay way, with Aldwyn Wayne of WiPayAlthough 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...2022-11-1644 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 229: Moving from data to insights, with Liselle Ramcharan-BriscoeAlthough 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 ca...2022-11-091h 09ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 228: Should Caribbean countries follow the trend and strike down net neutrality? 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, s...2022-11-021h 05ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 227: Are we there yet? Understanding the Caribbean region’s digital ecosystem and how developed it isWithout 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 ...2022-10-261h 01ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 226: Caribbean tech leveraging the AfriCaribbean link and the forced transformation of the past 30 monthsIn 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! ...2022-10-191h 17ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 225: Exploring Crypto Isle and the fintech and digital assets scene in The Bahamas, with Davinia BainContinuing 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 epi...2022-10-1250 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 224: An update on the CARICOM Single ICT Space, with Jennifer Britton of the CARICOM SecretariatTo 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 e...2022-10-051h 15ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 223: Gender inequality for women in tech and the potential impact of data privacy in the Caribbean regionIn 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...2022-09-281h 12ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 222: Artificial Intelligence, the potential, the challenges and why the Caribbean region still needs to embrace itArtificial 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 in...2022-09-2152 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 221: Kingston BETA and the importance of meet-ups in the tech community, with Ingrid Riley and Jermaine HenryRegular 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...2022-09-1448 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 220: Regtech and the opportunity in the Caribbean region, with Jennifer PotterRegulatory 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 som...2022-09-0746 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 219: Exploring Dominica’s efforts to realise a digital economy, with Robert TongeThe 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...2022-08-3150 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 219: Exploring Dominica’s efforts to realise a digital economy, with Robert TongeThe 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 wil...2022-08-3150 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 218: Parenting digital natives, and the threat or promise of digital literacy and an emerging Caribbean digital cultureIn 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 N...2022-08-241h 03ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 217: Comparing internet and Internet Governance challenges in the Caribbean and the South Pacific, with Maureen Hilyard and Nigel CassimireThis 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...2022-08-171h 01ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 216: Digital skills in the Caribbean region, with Dr Barbara Reynolds and Carlton SamuelsEnsuring 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 s...2022-08-1059 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 215: DAOs and why the Caribbean should not miss the technology boat this time around, with Donald Porter of Carib DAODecentralised 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/categ...2022-08-031h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 214: Becoming more e-commerce-ready in the OECS and the ways BPO has contributed to Jamaica’s economyIn 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 cred...2022-07-2758 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 213: Winning global hackathons by solving Caribbean problems, with FramePerfectIn 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 s...2022-07-201h 07ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 212: Digital identity and why it ought to be the first step in a country’s digital transformation and fintech efforts, with Trevor ForrestAcross 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 he...2022-07-131h 06ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 211: Growing eSports in Jamaica, with Dexton Graham of the Jamaica eSports InitiativeElectronic 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...2022-07-0646 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 201: The cost of web and app development, and access, the Holy Grail of ICT developmentIn 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 Narr...2022-04-271h 05ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 184: 2021 end of year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn 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...2021-12-081h 07ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 158: Creating a seamless and harmonised regional telecoms and ICT space, with Rodney Taylor, of the CTUIdeally, 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 dur...2021-06-0943 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 143: Leveraging ICT for education reform and balancing business operations and technology adoptionIn 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!2021-02-241h 08ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 141: How much closer are we to realising the Single ICT Space, with Jennifer Britton, of the CARICOM SecretariatIf 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.co...2021-02-1050 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 139: Exploring the telecoms and ICT space of Trinidad and Tobago, with Simon Fraser of TTCSOn 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 degr...2021-01-2747 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 136: 2020 end of year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn 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!2020-12-161h 18ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 130: The Pirates of Nassau and exploring the ICT and telecoms space of the Bahamas, with James ClarkeIn 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...2020-11-0445 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 126: Exploring the telecoms and ICT space of Guyana, with Samantha Sheoprashad of Trifinity SolutionsGuyana 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...2020-10-0743 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 120: Exploring the ICT and telecoms space of the Cayman Islands, with Dail DavisKnown 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! 2020-08-2643 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 117: Regulation and its impact on telecoms and ICT services in the Caribbean, with Annie Baldeo and Kirk Sookram of TATTAs 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 ha...2020-08-0555 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 101: Exploring the telecoms and ICT space of the Spice Isle, Grenada, with Brent McIntoshAlso 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 a...2020-04-1551 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 100: Reflections on my journey in techFor 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 re...2020-04-0846 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 098: Community Chat on leveraging ICT during the coronavirus pandemicIn 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, i...2020-03-251h 07ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 089: Exploring the Curaçao telecoms and ICT space, with Giovanni KingCuraçao 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...2020-01-2259 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 086: 2019 end of year Caribbean ICT/tech trends briefingIn 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!2019-12-181h 06ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 084: The strengths, challenges and opportunities for ICT in Saint Lucia, with Dr Lyndell St VilleContinuing 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!2019-12-0445 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 073: Following up on the Caribbean Single ICT Space, with Jennifer Britton of the CARICOM SecretariatAs 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!2019-09-1845 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 067: Why Barbados is one of the top-ranked countries for telecoms and ICT in the Caribbean, with David SmithOver 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...2019-08-0752 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 063: ICT in the Caribbean – from a donor agency’s perspective, with Therese Turner-Jones of the Inter-American Development BankFor 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...2019-07-1035 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 061: Community Chat on ICT for job creation and fostering greater participation of girls in ICTDeveloping 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!2019-06-2650 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 059: Improving ICT product testing to foster innovation in the Caribbean, with Dr Cathy-Ann Radix, of the University of the West IndiesBeing 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...2019-06-1235 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 058: Exploring Guadeloupe’s ICT/tech space, with Betty Fausta of GuadeloupetechThe 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 r...2019-06-0538 minICT Pulse PodcastICTP 055: Ensuring the meaningful inclusion of girls and women in ICTIn 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!2019-05-151h 06ICT Pulse PodcastICTP 035: Caribbean ICT/tech trend Community ChatWith 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!2018-12-1238 minICT Pulse PodcastTelecoms and ICT in the Caribbean, from the operators’ perspective, with Teresa Wankin of CANTOCaribbean 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...2018-10-3143 minICT Pulse PodcastEstablishing the Caribbean Single ICT Space, with Jennifer Britton of the CARICOM SecretariatThe 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 th...2018-08-2934 minICT Pulse PodcastCommunity Chat on gender equity in STEM and ICT, community networks, and the Caribbean's readiness for innovationIn 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!2018-08-151h 04ICT Pulse PodcastSmall Island Developing States and ICT, with Tracy HackshawThe 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...2018-07-0431 minICT Pulse PodcastLeading from behind to effect change in the Caribbean’s ICT space, with Yacine KhelladiChange 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:...2018-06-1346 minICT Pulse PodcastWelcome to the ICT Pulse Podcast!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!2018-04-1702 min