Researchers from across the Americas gathered in Lima, Peru, for the Connections to Sustain Science in Latin America Symposium 2025 between March 11 and 13, 2025. The event brought together early- and mid-career scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from Latin America, the Caribbean, the U.S., and Canada, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and discussions on critical scientific challenges. The event served as a key forum for strengthening regional and cross-disciplinary collaborations, allowing researchers to engage with emerging innovations and opportunities in fields essential to the region’s future.

Photo caption:  Participants at Connections to Sustain Science in Latin America Symposium 2025.

Photo caption:  Participating countries at Connections to Sustain Science in Latin America Symposium 2025.

Among the participants was Dr. Shaneica Lester, Geography Lecturer in the Department of Geography and Geology in the Faculty of Science and Technology at The University of the West Indies, Mona. Dr. Lester was one of only four participants from the Caribbean (see map above for participating countries), reinforcing Jamaica’s presence in high-level scientific dialogues on regional sustainability.

The symposium focused on key themes shaping the future of Latin America and the Caribbean, including, sustainable energy infrastructure, artificial intelligence, water resilience, biodiversity and infectious diseases.

Dr. Lester contributed to the discussions by presenting a poster exploring potential future scenarios for Jamaica’s water sector. Her research examines decision-making strategies for both incremental and transformative adaptations aimed at strengthening water resilience in the face of climate change and other environmental challenges.

Photo caption: Dr. Lester talking with a colleague about her poster that looks at potential future scenarios for Jamaica’s water sector.

Photo caption: Dr. Lester addressing the audience at Connections to Sustain Science in Latin America Symposium 2025.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Lester noted that the symposium was a valuable opportunity to engage with experts from diverse fields, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative solutions for regional sustainability. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration across borders to tackle shared challenges and drive meaningful progress in science and technology.

Jamaica’s representation at these specialized meetings is crucial in ensuring that Caribbean perspectives are included in global scientific conversations, paving the way for stronger partnerships and impactful research initiatives.

Follow the Faculty of Science and Technology on Instagram @uwimona_fst and on Facebook at The Faculty of Science and Technology, The UWI Mona. For inquiries, WhatsApp us at 1-876-552-4691, call us at 1-876-927-1660-9, or email us at fst@uwimona.edu.jm.