Last week, on the 6th of August Jamaica commemorated 61 years of Independence where themes of celebrating the diaspora as well as the resilience and achievements of the Jamaican people over the past 60 years were emphasised. Meanwhile 17 years ago, a younger Joan Thomas-Edwards landed in South Africa and established Jamaica’s first high commission in Pretoria as acting high commissioner. During this stint she established a registry for communication systems which also laid the foundation for bilateral engagements and more. Fast-track to the present Joan is back in her role, as Jamaican High Commissioner to South Africa, to lead a mission in building stronger familial, trade, cultural and diplomatic relations between her home country and 18 African nations. She joins Lerato Mbele for the conversation.