Jamaica’s next agro-processors visit Belcour Preserves 

Agro-processing students from Knockalva Polytechnic College visited Belcour Preserves to learn from Mr. and Mrs. Lumsden, Belcour owners, about being a part of the agribusiness industry. It was an inspiring visit for the students as they learned about opportunities, what to keep in mind when developing a product and how to market that product.  

Hearing the Belcour story and tasting the products, while sharing their own product ideas, allowed the students to envision themselves in the agribusiness space.  

Belcour Preserves is known for its tasty sauces and jams. 

I was so excited to do the tour at Belcour Preserves because I was going to go into the field to experience the true works of an agro-processor and entrepreneur. Plus, meeting the co-founder, Mrs. Lumsden, was great. [Mrs. Lumsden gave] me the motivation I need to stay in school through her life story and her achievements. 

-Devon, student

After leaving Belcour the students visited the Scientific Research Council to observe the packaging process and learn about the management of a processing plant.  

Spark Day is one of Advance’s youth and workforce development activities that gives students real-life experiences in the agribusiness, wellness tourism and creative industries.  

Advance is a workforce development program that partners with select tertiary institutions to provide market-relevant training to disadvantaged youth for new or better employment opportunities.