The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) emerged victorious at the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce’s 38th Annual Awards Gala, held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
The JCF made history as it was the first time a law enforcement entity was being nominated in the category ‘Marketing Excellence’ category. The nomination pitted the Constabulary against notable Jamaican businesses and influencers, highlighting the JCF’s innovative approach to digital engagement.
The award, which is sponsored by Yellow Pages recognized the JCF’s unprecedented work in transforming its stakeholder engagement practices. The organization was lauded for its refreshing digital engagement tactics, particularly its strategic use of social media. The JCF was represented at the awards by Head of the Constabulary Communications Unit (CCU) SSP Stephanie Lindsay; Senior Communications Strategist, Dennis Brooks; Head of Social Media, Kayla Keane, and Social Media Manager, Gina Worgs.
Commenting on the momentous occasion, SSP Lindsay stated, “We are immensely proud to receive this award at this time and we accept it on behalf of the entire team at the CCU. Some time ago we decided to change the way we engaged with the public. We felt that we could use social media as a tool of a wider social transformation.”
The award comes on the heels of a significant gear-shift in JCF’s engagement strategy over the past year. The team decided to move more aggressively in leveraging social media as a pathway to wider social transformation. Their approach has resulted in a more authentic and transparent dialogue with their stakeholders, fostering trust, accountability, and a stronger bond with the community.
SSP Lindsay further added, “Last year we decided to change gear and move even more aggressively along that pathway, where social media is concerned.” The decision appears to have paid off as the JCF’s outstanding efforts in revolutionizing their public engagement were celebrated at the annual awards ceremony.
Dennis Brooks noted that the ground-breaking achievement sets a new precedent for law enforcement agencies around the world to rethink their approach to marketing and communications. “It’s wonderful to have the marketing efforts of the Constabulary being recognized. Marketing is not usually an area that police forces are known for, but in today’s digital age, it is becoming increasingly important for all organizations, including those in law enforcement, to effectively engage with their audiences through various platforms and mediums.
Winning Award for Excellence in Marketing demonstrates a successful adaptation to this new dynamic. It shows that we have managed to create a compelling marketing strategy, aimed at both improving the JCF’s public image, but – more importantly – building a stronger connection with the communities we serve,” said Brooks.
This win underscores the commitment of the JCF in meeting the evolving needs of the public in the digital age. It is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and hard work of the entire team, who continue to strive for excellence in their service to the public. As the JCF moves forward, they continue to leverage the power of digital platforms to positively impact their engagement efforts, promising a brighter future for law enforcement communication.
