Life journey of a visionary and leader

James ‘Jimmy’ Moss-Solomon: His Thoughts, Ideas & Perspectives, is not just a biography. The book’s essence lies in the collection of Jimmy’s published articles — over 100, spanning from 2017 to 2021 — in Public Opinion ( publicopinon.news), an online newspaper founded by Walter Scott.

MIND UNRESTRAINED

Jimmy’s prodigious intellect knows no bounds. From business and commerce to philosophy, politics, governance, sports, and music, he delves into every facet of life. His insatiable curiosity and expansive knowledge are awe-inspiring. His methodical approach shines through in each of his not overly long “think pieces”. He doesn’t merely skim the surface; he dives deep, researching extensively and interrogating facts.

As he navigated critical issues, he integrated practical, doable solutions. He enriches and inspires deeper contemplation of the issues by sharing a rich cache of carefully quoted sayings from sage men and women, to convey profound truths.

Through anecdotes, Jimmy paints a vivid picture of Jamaican society — past and present. His keen eye reveals both the beauty and challenges faced by the community. Jimmy’s strong sense of regionalism is evident in his inclusion of various happenings and tributes to notable (and sometimes less celebrated) individuals.

MULTI-DIMENSIONAL

His writings reveal him as a “thinker, scholar, researcher, teacher, historian, philosopher, visionary, sage, prophet, griot, storyteller, and humorist”. But Jimmy is more than labels. He’s a rare and uniquely special individual. He peers beyond surface realities, feeling the angst, the plight, and the foreboding discontents. He challenges us to look beyond political expediency and focus on the “long game” for Jamaica and its people. He prompts us to learn and adapt. His acute awareness of the signs of the times invites us all to participate in shaping our national and regional societies. His humour, insight, analysis and intelligence are bolstered by his wide-ranging experiential and otherwise informed references.

THEMATIC INSIGHTS

The articles in this compilation are expertly structured into four thematic sections, with the added convenience of an index for easy topic-based searches:

Section 1: Society and Culture

Jimmy fearlessly addresses what he terms the “devolution” of Jamaican society. He proposes solutions for issues such as the failing education system, language and values, and the underground drug economy. Through backward glances, he invites us to rediscover a “gentler, kinder Jamaica”.

Section 2: Leadership and Governance

Jimmy’s gaze extends beyond the past. He challenges current leaders — both public and private —to do more. Why, he asks, do places open simultaneously? Why not extend tax office hours to accommodate everyone? And what about a light-rail system for efficient transportation?

Section 3: Economy, Finance, and Trade

With courage, Jimmy presents informed thoughts, innovative ideas, and radical perspectives. He delves into tax policy, the role of the Central Bank, the National Housing Trust, and various National Budget presentations. His insights are invaluable for shaping Jamaica’s economic future.

Section 4: Management

Jimmy seamlessly integrates meticulously researched facts to address critical issues. Practical, actionable solutions are outlined, including a focus on Jamaica’s water supply challenges and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. How will we navigate the next crisis? What improvements await us?

SUMMARY BIOGRAPHY

The Summary Biography that unveils Moss-Solomon’s familial “roots and branches”, educational journey, leadership and service to national and regional organisations, philanthropic contributions, personal interests - including sport (swimming in particular) and music educational journey, and celebratory remarks from public and private sector, as well as civil society leaders.

The value, work and impact of his leadership and service to national and regional organisations is underscored by the glowing tributes from leaders in the public and private sectors as well as civil society.

BRAWTA

In the final chapter, ‘Brawta’ (Jamaican for “a little extra”), Moss-Solomon shares a personal account of his history with GraceKennedy, which serves as important institutional memory and a testimony to the development of an outstanding servant leader.

“When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground”. This is an old African proverb that, thankfully, is not true in the case of Moss-Solomon.

James ‘Jimmy’ Moss-Solomon: His Thoughts, Ideas and Perspectives, compiled by Glynis Salmon, published by Bala Press, and funded by GraceKennedy Foundation, is a brilliant and enduring library.