Dr Hume Johnson
Ranked as one of the leading communication specialists and political analysts in Jamaica, Dr Hume Johnson is a most sought after consultant, strategic advisor and media trainer. A broadcast journalist by training, Dr Johnson has over 15 years of professional experience in television & radio broadcasting, as well as in strategic communication and public relations. Her expertise in political communication and active engagement in the Jamaican public sector won her top-notch clients including high-level Government officials, entertainers and business executives. Dr Johnson served as a specialist speech writer within the Ministry of National Security (Jamaica); researcher with former State Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade, Delano Franklyn, and was an executive member of the Youth Advisory Council of former Prime Minister of Jamaica Hon. P J Patterson. Her outstanding work, in building the image and brands of iconic Jamaican entertainers Tony Rebel (and reggae festival Rebel Salute), Queen Ifrica and Lymie Murray is also well regarded.
Nowadays, Dr Johnson manages a global career as an academic extending from her native Jamaica to Australia, New Zealand and the United States. She is currently a Professor of Strategic Political Communication and Public Relations at Roger Williams University, Rhode Island, United States. Previously Dr Johnson lectured in the Broadcast curriculum (radio and television) at James Cook University, Queensland Australia. She is also an Honorary Associate of the Department of Politics at Waikato University, New Zealand.
Dr Johnson holds a PhD in Political Science & Public Policy from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, Masters of Science in Government (International Relations) and a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication from the University of the West Indies. An astute political thinker, she writes extensively on governance and civil society in Jamaica. She is the author of ‘Challenges to Civil Society: Protest and Governance in Jamaica’ (Cambria Press, 2011); co-author of ‘Jamaican Dons, Italian Mafias and the chances of a reversible destiny’ (Political Studies, Vol. 56, March 2008) and “Ode to Quasheba: Resistance Rituals of Higgler Women in Jamaica” (On the Edges of Development: Cultural Interventions, New York: Routledge, 2009).
Dr Johnson is also a regular political commentator and analyst with the Jamaica Gleaner and various radio talk programmes. She has remarked on recent political developments in Jamaica, including the appointment of the country’s youngest prime minister, and the ongoing discussions about organised crime, garrison politics and ‘dons’.
Dr Johnson offers training and consultancy services in Communications – Broadcasting, Public Speaking Effective Writing, Public Relations Techniques and Crisis Communications. Her ‘Step Up to the Microphone’ series is a workshop designed to train working professionals in public speaking. The training components include The Art of Conversation, Building Your Personal and Professional Brand, Understanding the Media; Speechwriting and How to handle Media Interviews. She is available for speaking engagements in Communications (including Crisis Planning), Political and Social Affairs (civil society, crime, governance); Leadership; and Image & Reputation Management.
