As the effects of climate change continue to affect economies of the region with Saint Lucia being no exception, there is a call for more sustainable practices to be employed where necessary, to promote resilience. It should also not be left to the governments to come up with the solutions. It is an opportune time for the private sector and especially new entrepreneurs to capitalize on the potential these discussions provide. It is with this in mind, the first Annual Enterprise Development Forum & Marketplace (EDFM) was created. The Forum is slated for June 13 and 14, 2018, at the Harbor Club Resort.
This Forum presented under the theme ‘Sustainability Defined’ will be held over a two-day period with the aim of bringing experts from various interrelated fields to dialogue, network and find solutions for some of the key issues which are affecting the Caribbean. The proceedings will take the form of panel discussions during the forum sessions, followed by a lively marketplace where businesses can showcase their products and services.
The organizers of EDFM are delighted to have two expert keynote speakers whose presentations will drive these topics. The first keynote speaker is Dr. James Fletcher, Sustainable Development Specialist and Author who will be opening the event with discourse on Sustainability Defined. Dr. Fletcher has extensive knowledge in the field representing Saint Lucia and the region internationally, during his tenure as the Minister for Public Service, Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology, throughout his career as the Director of Social and Sustainable Development at the Secretariat of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and, as the Cabinet Secretary in the Government of Saint Lucia, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
The second keynote speaker is Dr. Richard Brown, Director of CARICOM Single Market and Sectoral Programmes at the CARICOM Secretariat and an International Trade Specialist. Dr. Brown is tasked with presenting on Regional Business and Trade Facilitation and open the proceedings for the second day of panel discussions aimed at findings solutions to the various problems identified.
Other key topic areas include:
- Energy Management| The truth behind alternative sources
- Solid Waste Management | Can emerging technologies be the answer?
- Construction and Engineering | The key to effective project development.
- The Legal Strategy | A Key Component
- Doing Business in the Region | Mastering the Process!
- Tourism Development | Unmasking the Developer.
- Banking on Sustainability – Investment & Making the Right Choice
A major component of the event is to stimulate more entrepreneurship in the region by bringing together international companies, local businesses and service providers. The organising committee has ensured that the young adults are not left out by incorporating a youth development component of the event. Three young adults will undertake a two-month internship with Solid Waste Management and 1st National Bank St. Lucia prior to the event and have the opportunity to present a working prototype of a recycled product for sale for a chance for bigger prizes. Registration for applications is now open for this component. Email [email protected]
With speakers featured represented by local and regional bodies, companies are urged to register for a slot in this upcoming engagement as an attendee and/or exhibitor. Regional representatives will include members of Caribbean Community, the Caribbean Development Bank, CARILEC and more interested stakeholders. For more information, please visit us on facebook and linkedin @enterprisedevelopmentforum or visit www.enterprisedevelopmentforum.com for the latest updates.
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