Nicolette Bryan

2024 IVLP Impact Award Project: Harnessing the Power of Membership for Social TransformationJamaica

Nicolette is a LGBTQ+ and women’s rights advocate who has dedicated her career to the intersection of advocacy, social justice, digital media, social platform management, and project management. Renowned for adeptness in crafting compelling narratives and seamlessly integrating digital strategies, Nicolette also brings a wealth of marketing and communications expertise to the table. Her leadership hallmark is a distinctive blend of clarity, creativity, and collaboration, consistently propelling SOGIE (through innovative strategies and value-added content.  As a trailblazer in remote work dynamics, Nicolette has navigated the intricacies of orchestrating success within global teams. Her extensive experience reflects a deep understanding of both the evolving marketing and advocacy landscapes, and her track record is a testament to the commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Harnessing the Power of Membership for Social Transformation

The project will introduce a group of LGBTQ+ Jamaicans to the concept of cooperative enterprises, showcasing how cooperatives function as platforms where members contribute nominal fees in exchange for invaluable access to essential services and communal spaces. An interactive workshop session will offer participants a comprehensive understanding of the principles and benefits of cooperative ventures. Through a series of engaging discussions, case studies, and practical examples, participants will gain insights into how these cooperatives can serve as powerful tools for financial inclusion, mutual support, and collective advancement and will be equipped with practical knowledge and tools to initiate, manage, and sustain their own cooperative ventures.

“I hope to inspire other queer social entrepreneurs to adopt models of success I have been introduced to.” - Nicolette Bryan

IVLP Exchange Experience

Nicolette was a participant in the IVLP Project Social Entrepreneurs in the United States, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Cultural Vistas, in partnership with WorldOrlando, World Affairs Council of New Hampshire, Global Minnesota, and Colorado Springs World Affairs Council.

Nicolette’s exchange experience led to the development of her project: “This project was largely informed by several visits during my IVLP program, particularly the visits in Colorado Springs. I had the opportunity to see many ideas that I would like to see replicated in the LGBTQ+ community in Jamaica, by introducing people who are interested in social entrepreneurship to the ideas. The Makers' Space in Colorado Springs inspired the idea to have a members-only space that people can access 24 hours to use equipment that would be too expensive for them to purchase. DC Central Kitchen's comprehensive model of operation showed how to give people a second chance through food, via well-established partnerships with other entities in the community such as supermarkets. This is an amazing way to combat food poverty using social entrepreneurship. Food insecurity is an issue that is pervasive in the local queer community and that model would do well in Jamaica.  Ultimately, the workshop will showcase how these people have managed to make their models successful and to encourage the participants to adopt and adapt.”

“My IVLP journey was inspiring and eye-opening and I am charged up and excited to impart what I have learnt to my community.” -Nicolette Bryan

U.S. Communities Visited 

Colorado Springs, CO; Washinton, DC; Orlando, FL; Manchester, NH

Country: Jamaica

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