Due to increasing statistics of domestic violence across the globe, ARC Manufacturing Limited tackled the issue during the third instalment of its Power Lunch Series recently.

The event which was hosted via Zoom, featured Deputy Commissioner of Police (Ret’d) Novelette Grant delivering an impactful presentation on ‘Violence Against Women’.

During her presentation, Grant explored the effects of domestic violence on victims, businesses, and the economy as “it robs victims of their dignity and health, business continuity is affected through reduced productivity which negatively impacts the economy.”

There has been a global increase in domestic violence cases since the pandemic, so Grant urged her audience to use their power to challenge violence against women, advocate for change and gain the necessary knowledge to combat gender inequality, as it is a shared endeavour.

“Let us start to think about how we educate and train our boys in the ways of respect, empathy, and what it means to have healthy relationships and care for the dignity of those around,” she shared.

According to the General Manager of Corporate Affairs & Finance, Novlet Deans, the ISO 9001:2015 company exploits a number of programs that contribute to behavioural change and improved self-development.

“We try to connect our staff with the right resources to help them improve in every aspect of their lives. That, coupled with an environment where they can nurture their talents and assume fundamental roles within the organization, is what we believe will help to create more exemplary and effective leaders,” she stated.

ARC’s Power Lunch Series, is one of many initiatives that provide staff with opportunities for personal and professional enrichment, via key speakers from various sectors. The building materials company is expected to continue this trend as it looks to create an environment of equality and mutual respect, where women are represented in leadership roles and further career advancement opportunities for all its staff.

Published by Loop Jamaica.

ARC Manufacturing Limited recently kicked off its Power Lunch Series in conjunction with International Men’s Day, under the theme ‘Better health for men & boys.’

Acting Director of Emergency Medical Services (eMs) at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr. Kurdell Espinosa-Campbell, came armed with solutions to combat common health conditions affecting men in Jamaica.

“Statistics show that men are most at-risk to die from stroke, diabetes, heart disease and prostate cancer, simply because they are afraid to visit the doctor. As a result, we have to take a multifactorial approach to educate and protect these valuable members of our society,” Dr. Espinosa-Campbell explained.

“So, I urge you to consult with a physician regularly because it is the only way to know if everything is working as it should, to ensure your mental and physical wellbeing.

The day’s proceedings also featured 17 tenured male employees being recognized for their significant contributions to the company’s growth and development.

ARC’s Power Lunch Series is geared towards the holistic development of its workforce, through impactful conversations with industry experts. Over the last three years, the building materials company has intensified its efforts to provide mentorship and training for staff through its collaborative learning approach.

According to General Manager of Corporate Affairs & Finance, Novlet Deans, these initiatives create a competent and confident workforce.

“Our lunch series will exploit opportunities that can accelerate individual growth to better equip our staff for successful integration into the wider society,” she stated.

“We anticipate that this will provide better outcomes for each employee while contributing to higher productivity and efficiency levels throughout our organization.”

The ISO 9001:2015 certified company believes that the development of its human resources can be maximized as a distinct competitive advantage and will continue to focus on developing its staff as a key strategic imperative.

Published by Loop Jamaica.

ARC Manufacturing Limited recognized 22 of the company’s technical employees who were certified as machine operators under the HEART Trust National Service Training Agency (HEART TRUST NSTA) Workforce Certification Programme, after completing over 126 hours of training and assessments.

Rian Forbes, one of the 22 certified employees, said, “I am always open to opportunities where I can grow and influence my peers, so I am happy I got the chance to participate in the programme. As challenging as it was, it was worth it”.

During his address to the honourees, acting director of business development and workforce solutions at the HEART Trust NSTA, Marlon Johnson highlighted the significance of their certification, before encouraging the group to continue with their educational pursuits and upward mobility.

“The certificate you hold separates you from the average individual, so be proud of yourselves. You can go anywhere in the world to show that you are trained and certified as machine operators. Your certificate is yours for life because you put in the work, and no one can take that from you,” Johnson said.

The company noted that over the years, it has partnered with the HEART Trust to train its employees in various disciplines, such as customer service, forklift operating, and machine operating. The company said it plans to continue partnerships into the future.

ARC Manufacturing is a leading manufacturer and distributor of building materials in Jamaica. They employ over 250 individuals.

Published by the Jamaica Observer.