KINGSTON, Jamaica — Amid growing concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) replacing human roles, Adrian Dunkley, founder and CEO of Star Apple AI, reassured human resource professionals that AI’s true potential lies in enhancing human intelligence, not replacing it. Dunkley’s remarks were delivered during the Human Resource Management Association of Jamaica’s (HRMAJ) launch of HRM Week 2025, held from October 5 to 10 under the theme, ‘Transforming Work: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI.’
Speaking at the HRMAJ webinar titled ‘Empowering People with AI,’ Dunkley emphasized that AI serves as a tool to amplify human capabilities rather than diminish them. ‘AI didn’t replace human intelligence; it amplified it,’ he stated. He highlighted the transformative potential of AI in freeing employees from routine tasks, enabling them to focus on creativity, innovation, and meaningful connections. ‘The real opportunity lies in using AI to make work more human,’ he added.
Dunkley also shared insights from Caribbean organizations already leveraging AI, noting an average weekly time savings of five hours per employee. He underscored the importance of leadership in fostering trust and collaboration, stating, ‘When leaders help employees understand and experiment safely with AI, confidence and collaboration grow.’
Dr. Cassida Jones Johnson, President of HRMAJ, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the rise of emotional intelligence as a critical leadership skill in the AI era. ‘As AI takes over routine and analytical tasks, emotional intelligence is fast becoming the defining skill of successful leaders,’ she said. Dr. Jones Johnson also stressed the irreplaceable value of human insight, emotion, and connection, asserting that the most effective leaders combine intelligence with empathy and ethics.
HRMAJ further highlighted the growing importance of empathy, creativity, adaptability, and ethical decision-making in leadership, citing World Economic Forum predictions that these skills will be in high demand by 2030. The association also emphasized the significance of neurodiversity, psychological safety, and inclusive leadership in building resilient and innovative workplaces.
HRM Week 2025 set the stage for HRMAJ’s annual conference, scheduled for November 12–13, 2025, at the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston. The conference will explore the theme ‘From Strategy to Impact: Mastering Leadership Excellence Through HR,’ further delving into the intersection of AI and human-centered leadership.