MEET THE PRESENTERS
Keynote Speaker – David Morton – Chair – International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER)
With over 45 years of experience, David Morton combines a strong business, engineering and accounting background, experience in utility regulation and thorough knowledge of energy policy with an in-depth understanding of how a utility commission operates and the issues and challenges it faces. David was a Commissioner with the BCUC for almost 13 years, first appointed in December 2010, and appointed Chair and CEO in 2015.
David remains actively engaged in national and international energy and regulatory associations. He is the current Chair of the International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER) and a member of the Board of Directors of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC). He is also an Executive in Residence, and member of the Advisory Board, of Positive Energy, a University of Ottawa research program that aims to strengthen public confidence in energy policy, regulation, and decision-making. He is also an advisor to the Public Utilities Board of the Province of Manitoba. He also heads up the Canadian Energy Reliability Council, an educational organization that highlights reliability issues in Canada’s energy system.
David has regularly participated in speaking engagements and international training opportunities to regulators around the world, includes engagements with regulators and governments in Botswana, Macedonia, Zambia, Namibia, Moldova, Sri Lanka, Argentina, Papua New Guinea, Brazil, Kazakhstan, South Africa, Bosnia and Bangladesh.
David is the former Chair of the Canadian Association of Members of Public Utility Tribunals (CAMPUT), an ICER member. He was the recipient of CAMPUT’s 2023 award for Excellence and Innovation.
NAOMI WATKINS, Legal Officer (Actg.) – Office of Utilities Regulation
Naomi is an attorney-at-law with a Master’s Degree in Technology, Media and Telecommunications Law from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of London. She also holds the Certified International Privacy Professional/ Europe (CIPP/E ) certification. Naomi’s professional affiliations include the Jamaican Bar Association and the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) membership.
During her studies at QMUL, Naomi conducted research in the areas of technology, media, and telecommunications law, notably artificial intelligence, cyberspace jurisdiction, data protection and information security.
Naomi is a self-avowed privacy professional and an advocate for individuals taking control of their data. This is especially true given that personal data is the foundation of a multibillion-dollar global industry and is being monetised in myriad ways, often without consideration for the security of the data subjects.
RICARDO CASE, Senior Vice President- Shared Services
Ricardo is a champion of high-performance teams and values-driven leadership, emphasizing the importance of developing others and driving results.
He has over 30 years of proven leadership, technical expertise, and a passion for innovation. Throughout his career, he has successfully led major initiatives in engineering, system operations, emergency restoration, and enterprise transformation.
As Director – Engineering Services, Ricardo spearheaded JPS “Grid of the Future” strategy, driving advancements in digital grid technology, renewable integration initiative, and GIS modernization.
He holds a Bachelors of Engineering Degree in Electrical Power Systems from University Of Technology, Jamaica and a Masters in Management Information Systems from University of the West Indies.
A registered Professional Engineer and certified Project Management Professional, he has demonstrated the ability to address complex business challenges in a strategic and methodical approach.
Ricardo is a proud Ambassador and supporter of Brand Jamaica and enjoys spending quality time with his wife Nichole, his daughters Taylor and Courteney; and giving back to his alma mater, Kingston College.
Kalifa Clarke – Research Officer, Fair Trading Commission
Kalifa Clarke is a Research Officer at the Fair Trading Commission, where she conducts research to assess the competitiveness of key sectors within the Jamaican economy. A proud alumna of the Ardenne High School, she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of the West Indies, where she developed a keen interest in the field of Development Economics.
Kalifa is passionate about driving sustainable development through evidence-based policy and community initiatives. This commitment extends to her work with the Global Shapers Kingston Hub, a network of young changemakers focused on creating meaningful local impact.
Outside of work, Kalifa is an avid reader who finds inspiration in historical fiction, a genre she values for its ability to illuminate present-day issues through stories of the past. Her favourite book, Against the Loveless World by Susan Abulhawa, reflects her interest in global perspectives and the complexities of the human experience.
MARLON COOPER, B.Sc. (Hons), CISA,
CRISC, ELI/MP – CEO, Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS)
A seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in the realm of Data Analysis and Analytics, IT Security, Digital Transformation, Anti-Money Laundering and related areas, Marlon Cooper brings a blend of understated gravitas, business acumen, and a high level of energy to every endeavour. Marlon is a critical thinker adept at envisioning the bigger picture and navigating the intricate steps required to achieve it.
As CEO of Symptai Consulting Limited, one of the Caribbean’s largest homegrown IT Consulting companies in the English-speaking Caribbean, specializing in Cyber and Information Security, Digital and Operational Transformation, Data Privacy Implementation and Compliance, and Anti-money Laundering Compliance, Marlon plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s strategic direction. Guided by a results-oriented mindset, he is focused on strengthening and expanding Symptai’s regional footprint through strategic partnerships, while establishing Symptai as a leading authority across the diverse domains of its expertise.
A graduate of the University of the West Indies, Marlon holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Accounting, and certifications, including Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification. Additionally, Marlon is a Master Practitioner in Energy Leadership (ELI/MP). Committed to people development and expanding leadership capabilities, he remains passionate about fostering personal and professional growth.
Marlon has authored numerous articles targeting audiences across diverse domains. Notably, he delivered an address on digital transformation and building cyber resilience at Canto 2022 and 2023. His extensive speaking engagements encompass Digital Transformation, Cyber Security, Anti-Money Laundering compliance, Regulatory Compliance, Leadership, and the execution of business strategy.
Outside the professional sphere, Marlon embraces his roles as an avid sports enthusiast, a lifelong learner, and a devoted father to his five children. While he possesses a sociable nature, his most cherished moments revolve around spending quality time with his family.
Sorayadebie Jhagroe, MSc., Regulatory Specialist – Energy Authority of Suriname
Sorayadebie Jhagroe is the Regulatory Specialist at the Energy Authority of Suriname, focusing on Economic Regulation and Supervision, and is particularly interested in the Caribbean’s energy transition. She holds a Master of Science degree in Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and has expertise at the intersection of regulation, climate policy, and sustainable energy development. Regionally and internationally, she serves in leadership roles, including as a World Energy Council Future Energy Leader, the first Caribbean member of this global Leadership program, and Global Ambassador for Blue Planet Alliance. She has been recognized as a Caribbean 35 Under 35 Gamechanger and received the CARICOM/CDB Women in Sustainable Energy Youth Leader Award in 2022. Soraya has represented Suriname and the wider region in high-level fora. She’s at the EAS for almost 5 years, and is currently finalizing research on the legal dimensions of the climate-energy nexus and renewable energy policy in the Caribbean.
Dr. Oswald Smiley, PhD, PE – Senior Manager – Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS)
Dr. Oswald Smiley is a seasoned utility executive, professional engineer, and author with over 30 years of experience in the Caribbean energy sector. He currently serves as a Senior Manager at the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), where he provides strategic leadership in grid modernization, rural electrification, disaster resilience, and distributed energy integration.
Dr. Smiley holds a PhD in Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. His career has spanned both technical and policy domains, giving him a unique perspective on the intersection of engineering, regulation, and enterprise.
He is the author of the book Removing the Barriers for Engineers Entering Business, a thought-provoking work that explores the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration in solving complex energy challenges. Dr. Smiley also contributes to regional regulatory and professional development efforts through his involvement with ASIS International, the Association of Energy Engineers and the Jamaica Institution of Engineers.
With a deep commitment to sustainable energy and institutional capacity building, Dr. Smiley is passionate about empowering engineers and regulators alike to shape a resilient and inclusive energy future for the Caribbean.
Trishann Russell – Manager, Legal Affairs, Cable & Wireless Jamaica Limited
Trishann Russell is the Manager of Legal Affairs at Cable & Wireless Jamaica Limited, providing legal support to the Jamaica, Anguilla, Montserrat, and St. Kitts & Nevis markets. Her career spans private practice and public service, with expertise in regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and telecommunications law. She has a strong interest in leveraging legal frameworks to advance infrastructure development and universal access initiatives.
Before joining Cable & Wireless, Trishann served as the Acting Corporate Secretary and the first Legal Officer for the Universal Service Fund Jamaica and later worked with the Special Economic Zone Authority in the development of Jamaica’s Special Economic Zones.
A graduate of the University of the West Indies, Mona, she was called to the Jamaican Bar in 2015 and earned her MBA from the Mona School of Business in 2023. Outside of work, she is a devoted wife and mother who enjoys tracking hurricanes and organizing game nights.
Shavanne Smith, Research Officer – Fair Trading Commission
Shavanne Smith is responsible for conducting research and preparing analytical reports on competition issues, investigating complaints under the Fair Competition Act and participating in educational outreach among other things. A proud alumnus of Knox College, he was raised in rural Jamaica, an experience that shaped his strong sense of community and national pride.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Technology. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Economics at the University of the West Indies, Mona.
Shavanne volunteers with the CHASE Fund, reflecting his commitment to public service and youth development. Passionate about research and policy, he aims to contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s economic growth and development. Outside of his work, he is a sports enthusiast and lifelong learner who values teamwork, discipline and resilience.
Najuequa Barnes, BSc., LL.B., MSc., CIPM, Chief Privacy Officer and Managing Director – United Consulting International Limited
Najuequa Barnes is a transformative leader in data privacy initiatives across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. With expertise developed at PricewaterhouseCoopers, in GDPR compliance, she now champions tailored frameworks that align with Jamaica’s Data Protection Act, 2020. She has pioneered dynamic, hands-on data privacy programmes that transform staff into strategic champions of compliance and cultural change.A sought-after speaker, Najuequa recently served as a panellist and Privacy Chair Member at the prestigious Privacy Symposium in Venice, Italy, contributing to global discussions on AI, governance, and compliance. Beyond consulting, she has lectured in law at the tertiary level, developed curricula, and advised international bodies including the World Bank, UNDP, and IDB on international development issues. A Chevening Scholar and award recipient, she is also the founder of the Mindfulness Jamaica Initiative.
Shawn Enterline, Energy Analyst and Consultant – Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP)
Shawn Enterline is a member of RAP’s U.S. team, who specializes in energy efficiency and integrated resource planning (IRP).
Before joining RAP, Mr. Enterline worked for a series of investor-owned and municipal utilities including Green Mountain Power, Burlington Electric Department, and Pacific Gas and Electric where he gained expertise in power and gas marketing, portfolio management, and utility financial and regulatory affairs. He has also worked as a consultant to clients throughout North America as an employee of Dunsky Energy Consulting and the Vermont Energy Investment Corporation. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Mineral Economics from the Pennsylvania State University.
Brigitte Burnett, Head – Economic Regulation and Supervision – Energy Authority Suriname
Brigitte Burnett has a master’s in education and research for Sustainable Development and a Doctorandus degree in Economics, both from the Faculty of Social Sciences of the Anton de Kom University of Suriname. She has built up 20 years working experience of the macroeconomic and social aspects of the sector. Her current goal is to develop specific economic regulatory skills and contribute to the professional establishment and recognition of the electricity regulator of Suriname. She has
previously worked as a fulltime economist at the Ministry of Finance and the National Planning Office of Suriname. As a registered independent consultant, she has been involved in rural electrification projects. She is a member of the organization of Economists in Suriname and is co-founder of the foundation Women in Sustainable Energy Suriname.
Alrick Livingston, Competition Analyst – Fair Trading Commission (FTC)
Alrick Livingston holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Economics and a Master of Science in Economics from the University of the West Indies, Mona. At the FTC, he contributes to merger assessments, policy development, and the enforcement of competition law at the FairTrading Competition.
With a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and regulatory analysis, Alrick is well equipped to evaluate market dynamics and support fair competition. His professional experience spans both the private and public sectors, including a role as Senior Accountant at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records.
Alrick is deeply committed to fostering Jamaica’s economic development through sound regulatory frameworks and effective policy implementation. He brings a multidisciplinary perspective to competition analysis, particularly within the Caribbean context, and contributes to initiatives that promote transparent and competitive markets.
