2 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
Editor’s Note YES! Is a publication of the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme.In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Youth Write to us or give us a call at: Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES), we are delighted to share this Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) special edition that captures some amazing entrepreneurs Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, who exemplify ‘entrepreneurial excellence’. Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael It is commonly held that the concept ‘entrepreneurial excellence’ is merely an aspirational destination to be worked toward in 246-621-2700 [email protected] the hope of eventually arriving at a destination in the distant divyouth246 future. Rather, we believe that ‘entrepreneurial excellence’ is more likened to a habit. It is the cumulative result of tiny actions over a period of time. As the pyramids were built one brick at a time, so too successful entrepreneurial ventures are built one transaction, one customer relationship, one decision and one action at a time. In short, ‘entrepreneurial excellence’ requires commitment to taking incremental acts of distinction on a regular basis. We must be willing to strive for the highest standard in every task no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. As Leadership Expert and International Best Selling Author, Robin Sharma says, “remarkable entrepreneurs understand that the quality of the practice determines the caliber of the performance.” This special edition features YES entrepreneurs who are taking those steps and who are at the top of their game in their industries. We’ve selected lead entrepreneurs of diverse backgrounds ranging from construction to the cultural industries. Find out how our leading entrepreneurs define success, their views on entrepreneurship, where they get inspiration, the daily practices that improve their performance and why they do what they do. Congratulations to the industry leaders and happy 20th anniversary to the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES)! Cheers! Dr. Tara Wilkinson-McClean Editor, YES! Magazine Publisher DESIGN & LAYOUT: Selma J. Green G&A Communication Inc. 1st Floor, Suite 201, The Atrium, Sky Mall Rd. Creative Director / Photography Haggatt Hall, St. Michael, BB11059 Rachelle Gray Barbados, W.I. T: (246) 437.2214 | F: (246) 228.5204 Coordinating Team E: [email protected] Cherryann Jordan, Tara Wilkinson-McClean Distribution Gloria King PRINTED BY: COT Holdings Ltd., #16 Newton Industrial Estate, Christ Church. T: (246) 420.8550 | F: (246) 420.8555 | E: [email protected] DISCLAIMER: Some of the views expressed in this publication are the views of the writers and not necessarily those of the YES. © 2014 YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME. Reproduction of any materials contained herein without written approval constitutes a violation of copyright. YES reserves the right to determine the content of the publication.YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 3
Minister’s Foreward: EMPOWERING OUR NATION’S YOUTH Hon. Stephen Lashley, M.P. Minister of Culture, Sports and YouthAs the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) economic development and will support efforts to approaches yet another milestone of its make Barbados the #1 entrepreneurial island by development, it is my pleasure to congratulate the 2020.management and staff and its clients on their success. This The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth will providepublication is a celebration of the sterling achievement adequate support mechanisms that will engageof the young entrepreneurs who are making an impact in research and development at the macro and microa number of key business sectors. As you will note, their levels to stimulate growth and the sustainability ofsuccess, though partly attributed to the conscious efforts entrepreneurial activityof the YES programme, speaks volumes of the drive, that can inform policy and programme development.dynamism, attitudes and commitment exhibited by each To date, YES has been instrumental in developingentrepreneur to achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations. a suite of services and infrastructure for enterprise creation to move youth entrepreneurs from theA country’s capacity for growth is highly reflected in survival stages to small-scalethe ways in which its people improve on the resource economic activity.bases that fuel and guide economic and socialactivity. In Barbados, entrepreneurship is a relatively YES facilitates opportunities for young entrepreneursstable and viable engine of economic development. to network and learn from each other, to keepEnterprise creation especially among youth is rapidly abreast of industry standards and emerginggrowing and diversifying. Our young entrepreneurs market requirements and adopt best practices andare seriously and consciously taking their ideas and establish benchmarks from models of Regionalentrepreneurial endeavours into newer dimensions and and international entrepreneurial developmentthe level of creativity and innovation they exhibit is highly systems. Given the resources that are available tocommendable. programmes like YES and the remarkable results that are realised on an annual basis, I believe that we areAs we continue to recognise and promote the contributions well on our way to contributing to the achievementof entrepreneurs, stimulation of participation, of this goal especially with regard to education andencouragement of acceptance and influencing talent development and mentoring and networking.new thinking will be key to quality entrepreneurialdevelopment. Our support, and in particular our efforts Moving a young person’s dream from ‘idea toto stimulate innovation, will give rise to new business, enterprise’ takes a great deal of risk and a majorexpansion of opportunities and the sustained growth of commitment of resources. The Government intendsyouth-led ventures. to continue to invest in our young people. We see the difference that our investment is making in their lifeIn transforming Barbados into an entrepreneurial and the lives of others. It is clear how their successesisland, the need to develop industry standards for are inspiring their peers and others to expand theiryouth mentorship programmes becomes more critical to vision scope and explore how they too can dreamensure a greater role for young entrepreneurs like those and advance their own business ideas. This is greathighlighted in this special anniversary issue. We must work that is being done!also work more diligently at fostering entrepreneurshipawareness among other stakeholders - families, I congratulate our young entrepreneurs on theircommunities, support agencies, private sector, and successes, their achievements and their contributionsgovernments. and I especially extend best wishes to YES as it advances this valuable work of youth empowermentThe Government of Barbados will continue to promote and enterprise.entrepreneurship as a central pillar of social and4 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
DEVELOPINGAN ENTERPRISECULTURESenator, The Honourable, Maxine McCleanMinister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign TradeIam honoured to have been invited to contribute me to assist YES with programme an article as part of the commemoration of the design and programme delivery 20th anniversary of the Youth Entrepreneurship especially with regard to training and Scheme (YES), a programme of which I was a Business Support. Today as a policy maker, part from its inception. I was there at its birth I am reminded of the importance of YES as one and I have observed its growth and expansion. effort on the part of Government to foster an I therefore offer congratulations to all who have enterprise culture, and encourage indigenous been part of the organization over the past twenty entrepreneurship. years. I will be bold and single out one individual as she is the person with whom I interacted very Fostering An Enterprise Culture early in the life of YES and with whom I am in The services provided by YES are but one element periodic contact, Mrs. Selma Green. in a mix of factors required to foster an enterprise culture. By enterprise culture I speak of: “A society This invitation affords me the opportunity to in which personal achievement, the earning of reflect on the very important contribution of YES money, and the development of private business to fostering an enterprise culture, through its is encouraged” (Cambridge Dictionaries On Line). Training and Business Development Services A society in which entrepreneurial attributes and offered to Barbadian Youth. In reflecting on the values such as risk-taking, innovation, investment, accomplishments of YES, I am able to do so and business ownership are encouraged deemed through several lenses. My association with this important. programme occurred at the time when I would have introduced the first course in Entrepreneurship The responsibilities for developing an enterprise (New Venture Management), as an elective for the culture are multiple: public and private; individual, final year Management Studies students at the family and community. There are clear roles for Cave Hill Campus, of the University of the West the each stakeholder bolstered by the provision Indies. of the necessary education and training, the requisite legislative and regulatory framework, Three years before the creation of YES, the Youth the provision of financial resources and access to In Business Programme, a joint initiative of the social capital, to provide an adequate enabling Youth and Community Development Department, environment. Ministry of Community Development and Culture and the Organisation of American States (OAS), An examination of these requirements will reveal was launched on Monday, March 23, 1992 by the that successive governments, over the life of then Minister of Community Development and YES and before its establishment, have invested Culture, the Honorable, David Thompson. I was heavily in formal and specialised education: invited by Minister Thompson to Chair the newly- nursery, primary and secondary. In respect of formed Youth- In - Business Advisory Committee. business development, our educational system Following closely on the formation of the Youth provides at a minimum, basic literacy and in Business Programme, was the establishment numeracy skills. At the secondary level, youth of the Barbados Youth Business Trust, a charity, are exposed to critical areas such as sciences, registered under the Charities act, 1979 - 2, on business and Humanities. At the Tertiary level - December 5, 1994. There was an Operations university, Barbados Community College and the Committee on which I served as a member. Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic, specialised training and certification are available. The experiences gained from the above allowedYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 5
Beyond this, established operations can source products and services thus contributing to the viability of new, micro and small businesses. Theavoidance of anti-competitive behavior on the part of established companieswill also serve to enhance the business climate faced by fledgling businesses.It takes an entrepreneurial mindset to pursue business opportunities. contributed to the advancement of hundreds of young Barbadians.While some may argue that entrepreneurship cannot be taught, YES has in reality undertaken to prepare young men and women tothere is a contending perspective that it is possible to foster such launch into the world of business start-up and entrepreneurship. Thisa mindset by systematically exposing youth to the key elements of has been a very vital organization, given the harsh global reality thatentrepreneurial thinking and activities such as assessing business young people will find it more and more difficult to secure traditionalopportunities, developing Business Plans and the fundamentals of paid employment.Business Financing. Entrepreneurship and self-employment are strategies to addressExisting businesses can provide examples of best and even worst poverty reduction among the economically disadvantaged. At thepractice, thus exposing youth to the “What to” and “What not to do” same time it offers much scope for the application of competence inin business. Beyond this, established operations can source products the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.and services thus contributing to the viability of new, micro and smallbusinesses. The avoidance of anti-competitive behavior on the part Going Forwardof established companies will also serve to enhance the business The evidence of the success of the YES is captured in the many editionsclimate faced by fledgling businesses. of the YES! Business Directory which showcases many of the viable businesses that it has assisted to start up and grow. The future ofImportance of Family and Community – Building Social Capital YES however, must reflect the technological and market realitiesAdler, Paul S, and Seok-Woo Kwon. 2002 (‘Social Capital: Prospects faced by their clients. With the advent of the Internet revolution andfor a New Concept.’ Academy of Management. The Academy of e-commerce, there has been a corresponding increase in options forManagement Review 27: 17-40) define social capital as, “the goodwill exploring global markets. To date, YES has focused more on micro-available to individuals or groups. Its source lies in the structure and small enterprise support. There is need to address the supportand content of the actor’s social relations. Its effects flow from the requirements of those individuals who have potential to create fast-information, influence, and solidarity it makes available to the actor”. growth enterprises with global appeal. This will require the redesignPut very simply, social capital refers to those resources and support, of some programmes and the introduction of others.tangible and intangible, which support the efforts of the entrepreneur.Families and communities must offer moral, financial and technical There is scope for partnerships with other local, regional andsupport, or patronage of the business. A young aspiring entrepreneur international agencies and this must be explored. The role of youthstands a greater chance of success if this support is given and if entrepreneurship as a key mechanism of human capital developmentthere are expose to the role models and mentors on whom they can is clear. In the future YES, must build on it accomplishments if Barbadosdraw to offer valuable advice and guidance. These, critical inputs is to realise the full economic and social potential of our youth, andwhen available, are likely to enhance social trust, thus improving the promote sustainable growth.likelihood of risk-taking.The Impact of the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES)Over the past twenty years, YES as a youth development strategy has“ Entrepreneurship and self-employment are strategies to address poverty reduction among the economically disadvantaged. At the same time it offers much scope for the application of competence in the areas of Science, “Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.6 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
MESSAGE FROM PERMANENT SECRETARYMs. Ruth BlackmanTwenty years! What is so special about this milestone? YES has survived over the years and has done well. ItsOne calypsonian may well inform us that in terms of age achievements are too numerous to mention, but as anthat it is just a number. That notwithstanding, I choose to institution it is now poised at age twenty, to embark on abe informed by the human development process which, at new beginning at a time when the environment ironically,one time, saw twenty as the year of transition from being a is somewhat similar to the one in which it was birthed.teenager to becoming an adult. However, having wisely utilised all opportunities presented for learning, it is better able to face the future.In the 1990s when Youth in Business, as it was then called,was introduced in Barbados, the country was emerging Our young people are some of the most creative andfrom a period of economic decline and entrepreneurship innovative in our history. YES will continue to be at thewas one of the strategies pursued to stimulate the economy cutting edge to give them the guidance and assistanceand put it back on a path to growth. The youth population, they need. Having done well in the past, YES, guided by itswhich was impacted the most, was targeted in the strategy principles of service, excellence, innovation and integrityand hence the journey of Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme will aim to channel the talents and energies of our young(YES) began in 1995. entrepreneurs towards growing sustainable businesses, creating jobs and ensuring the future development ofThe journey was by no means a smooth one. There were our country. As the current administrative Head of thechallenges along the way which can be compared to a Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth under which theyoung child which has to crawl, creep and then walk. He YES programme falls, I pledge the support of my office.or she would have fallen on occasions, but did not stay Congratulations on a job well done and every success indown. That young child got back up and continued along your future endeavours.the development path. The teething pains ensued as didthe terrible twos, but life went on with the assistance of Mrs. Ruth Blackman, B.Sc. [Hons, UWI]; MPA [Harvard]committed parents. The uncertainty of the teenage yearsfollowed, but with the goal to succeed being the drivingfactor, he/she made it through secondary school andthe magical age of twenty was reached; the eve of newbeginnings.YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 7
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF YOUTH Mr. Cleviston Hunte Heartiest congratulations to the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) for achieving 20 years of existence! Over the years, YES has been carefully nurtured and has evolved into an agency with considerable practical experience in Youth Entrepreneurship and a sustainable development model that is view as a best practice globally. Throughout its transformation YES has emerged as a flexible organization which provides critical business solutions to support the entrepreneurial aspiration of young people including a comprehensive training programme and technical and managerial support services. These inputs are vital to our young people at a time when knowledge-based goods and services are being provided by smaller firms and there has emerged a creative class driven by the development of the creative and cultural industries. Twenty years is certainly a significant milestone in the history of any organization and YES will not be resting on its record of performance over the years. Let me assure you that the journey has just begun. YES has been identified in the National Youth Policy of Barbados as providing a mechanism for boosting innovation and increasing youth employment by enhancing the development of an entrepreneurial economy and its team will be working assiduously with clients and industry partners to achieve those goals. I wish to specially commend the past and present staff and all of our stakeholders and strategic partners who have influenced the success of YES over the past twenty (20) years. You have been outstanding in your various roles and in your contributions to the accomplishments of YES and the achievements of its clients. I wish you every success as you continue to empower the youth of Barbados to reach their fullest potential.8 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
MCEanLagEerB’sRRAemTarIkNs: G an entrepreneurial organization, we will continue to advocate to embed entrepreneurship training andENTREPRENEURIAL education into our education systems; encourage risk-taking and tolerance for failure; provide criticalEXCELLENCE support mechanisms to stimulate the growth and sustainability of new ventures; and most importantly,For years entrepreneurs have been contributing to work more diligently to strengthen entrepreneurship global economic development; no less so in Barbados. awareness among our stakeholders – families, Entrepreneurship is a central pillar of our social and economic communities, support agencies, the private sector advancement and the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) is at and governments as we move young entrepreneurs the forefront of creating entrepreneurs of the future to support the from ‘idea to enterprise’. successful growth and diversification of Barbados’ economy. I cap off our celebrations by paying homage to the tremendous contributions made by our team Entrepreneurship is a difficult undertaking and achieving members and technical partners. YES does powerful entrepreneurial excellence is even more daunting. Every business and life changing work. Every year we maintain our strives for excellence but achieving excellence is no mean feat. high standards and continue to exceed our targets The quest for excellence is a lifelong pursuit that requires strong and client expectations. With the help of a dedicated commitment, focus, good management of resources - especially staff and a vibrant, highly motivated, capable people - and effective leadership. When we see businesses start and supportive network of facilitators, consultants, up, grow and excel, as we have at YES, this gives us cause for technical partners and mentors, YES provides celebration! critical and outstanding support to building youth entrepreneurship in Barbados. As YES celebrate twenty years of promoting excellence in youth I am proud to be part of the team and I look forward entrepreneurship, It is wonderful to reflect on and acknowledge the to continuing to shape a dynamic local and global achievements of our young people and salute their commitment network of partners who are committed to creating a and initiative in embracing the challenges of enterprise. Youth-led new generation of entrepreneurs, who will lead the businesses are powerful drivers of social and economic change charge to revolutionise our economies. that are making their mark by generating income, earning foreign Blessings and a heartfelt thank-you to everyone for exchange and creating much-needed jobs. The entrepreneurs your love, passion, commitment and support over the who spearhead these ventures are not only achieving financial years! success and creating wealth but they are also contributing to Here’s to another twenty…Let’s all celebrate! building a legacy of a new entrepreneurial class in Barbados as they consciously take their entrepreneurial endeavours into newer Selma J. Green dimensions. Manager, We applaud the innovation they exhibit as they develop new product Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme concepts from soft furnishings to software packages, we commend the ways they transform existing products like recyclable paper to bring something fresh and amazing such as customised indigenous jewellery to the market place and we salute the innovative ways they present and market their products and services. For a small developing nation like Barbados that is operating within an increasingly competitive economic space, Innovation is vital to its growth, sustainability and competitiveness. So we must promote inventions that represent new market niches, develop industries and contribute to product, service and process reengineering. I encourage our young innovators to continue to use the power of their imagination to boldly express new ideas, to discover new ways of doing things and to dare to be original! As YES looks forward to the next twenty years, we remain committed to developing a culture of enterprise among all Barbadians. AsYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 9
A LETTER TO YES! FROM YOUR FIRST MANAGER, Kay McConney Dear YES! Welcome to your third decade! Heartiest congratulations on your first twenty years inservice to young entrepreneurs. All who have contributed to your development and sustainability deserve credit, and I am especially pleased to add my voice to your chorus of 20th anniversary celebrants. YES! emerged from a national research initiative spearheaded in the mid-1990’s by the Government of the time to ascertain!what supports youth required. Your course was set with direct input from young entrepreneurs. You listened; you tested new ideas; and you adjusted your business model as you grew. Learning while in motion was your characteristic strength. Born into a relationship with Government, private sector and non-profit partners, you were the product of collaboration. The programming pillars and services that supported your original structure were built as strategic partnerships. Some services were even designed to become self- sustaining. Clients who enefited from YES! were expected to contribute as their businesses grew, and would, overtime, become investment partners. From start, your approach was non-traditional in the public service. YES! Magazine was created to facilitate your conversation with Barbados: to tell your stories; to inspire young entrepreneurs; and to incite wholesome national dialogue on entrepreneurship. Communication, education and outreach were central to your brand. In the process of engaging with stakeholders, you learned that to raise entrepreneurs you had to be an entrepreneurial organisation. This meant that you had to provide!a safe placefor the creative spark of inquisitive, self-starters to catch fire. You had to have an appetite for risk and an eye for opportunity. You had to think outside of the traditional public-service box and engage a team that could connect the creative side of entrepreneurship to the discipline of the market place. You were a hybrid of pioneer and pragmatist. As you now stand poised to serve a new generation of 21st century entrepreneurs, I wish you con- tinued success. May you have clear vision to evolve with the integrity of a true innovator; invigorated support to capitalize on emerging opportunities; and the unbiased heart to keep listening to the people you serve. To your last twenty years, I raise a toast; and to your next twenty, a prayer. Always at your service, Kay McConney (Ms.) First Manager of YES! (1995–1998)10 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
Section ListingOn Being An Entrepreneur ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ----- 12Agriculture ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --- 14Arts & Crafts ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --- 16Construction --- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- ------- ---- 18Cosmetology ------ -------- ------- ------- --------- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------ 20Creative Industries ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 22Fashion ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --- 24Food & Beverage ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 26YES! Staff ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --- 2 8Graphics --- -------- ------- -------- -------- -------- ------- ------ --------- ------ --------- ------- --- 3 0Information Technology ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ----- 32Jewellery ---- ------ -------- ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- -------- --- 3 4General Services ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 36Medical Services ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 38Professional Services ------- ------- -------- -------- ------- ------- ------- -- ------- ------- ------- ----- 40Specialised Services ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 42Health & Wellness ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 44Tuition Services ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46Care Services -- -------- ------- -------- -------- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- ------- ---- 48Manufacturing ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 5 0Retail - -------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- -------- ------- ------- -------- -------- -------- 5 2Businesses to Look For ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------ 5 4Down Memory Lane ---- -------- -------- ------ --------- ------- ------- ------- -------- ------- -------- 56YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 11
ON BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR Sasha MappMy interest in business began Hence, my advice to every entrepreneur or aspiring one is to during my tenure at secondary keep learning – the future growth of your business depends on the school and continued throughout knowledge you acquire today. college and university. It was also during that time that I started my entrepreneurial Like many other businesses, Saanma International Inc. had humble endeavours. Housekeeping, car washing, beginnings, starting as a one room operation. At that time, we only provided babysitting and tutoring were some of tutoring services for primary and secondary students. After-school care, holiday camps, my teenage ventures, as I seized every homework help, full-time school and e-learning solutions were subsequently added to our opportunity to add to my growing savings. service complement for the same target market. Later, we eventually branched out by As a result, I had enough funds to cover offering adult classes as well as e-training solutions including e-course development and my tertiary education expenses. online hosting for various organisations. Over the past ten years we have also conducted a number of free adult courses and issued scholarships for students to attend our primary After completing my first degree, I started and secondary school as well as our annual summer school programme. a career as an Economist but continued providing tutoring services in my free time. Reaching the ten year milestone was not easy and I still have daily obstacles to overcome. I thoroughly enjoy helping others succeed The assistance and recognition I received as a result of my affiliation with YES, BYBT and in their studies and out of a desire to do Fund Access have been instrumental to my business success. more to assist underperforming students, I established the Comprehensive Learning I had the privilege of being featured in the YES Living the Dream TV Programme, the Liat Academy now Saanma International Inc. in-flight ‘Zing’ magazine, ‘Mornin’ Barbados’ and the YES! magazine. These opportunities led to an expansion in my customer base both locally and regionally. Similarly, I received a I remained in full-time employment scholarship to attend a regional business conference and formed new alliances because during the first five years of my business of the feature in the ‘Zing” magazine. In addition, I am contracted as a facilitator for the before resigning. The transition to self- Business Support Tools Module of the YES Entrepreneurship Training Programme and employment was hard and on hindsight, more recently, I received technical assistance to incorporate my business. better planning would have reduced some of the challenges I experienced. Being the recipient of an award is always a thrilling and humbling experience. In the Being fully self-employed has caused me past decade I have been honoured with 10 awards including ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’, to grow not only in business but also as an ‘Most Innovative Service’ and the Bambussa Award 2009 which is the national award for individual. As I grew, so did my business. Entrepreneurship. I have always been resilient, self motivated and focussed however, such recognition for my efforts and business contribution encourages me to persist amidst the challenges. Let me close by expressing my sincere gratitude to all those who have supported and stood by me throughout the years, including my core team, because of you I look forward to my future with extreme confidence and enthusiasm.12 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
ON BEING AN We continue to ENTREPRENEUR connect with many other entrepreneurs Samuel Gittens like my friend Steve Director – M.Grafix Inc. Andrews from the Soothing Touch Da Spa, who was alsoSometimes as one continues day after day with all the there with YES throughout the years, wonderful opportunities and challenges that constitute and many, many others who have life, it is easy not to realise the passage of time. So come after. We interact with manywhen YES asked me to write an article for the magazine as they of our mentors, and yes, we havecelebrate 20 years it was a welcome opportunity to reflect on my path also gone on to mentor several newas an entrepreneur. entrepreneurs going through the programme. It’s a network not onlyFirstly, I want to congratulate YES for making a positive impact on the lives of many to share ideas and challenges butyoung entrepreneurs, and by extension the economic landscape of Barbados. In also to trade and grow each other’slooking back we at M.Grafix have been clients of YES from inception, we were businesses.one of the very first clients, growing with them over the past 20 years, as theymoved through various locations, continuing to expand and we have worked Youth can be one of our greatestwith all the managers and their teams right up to the present one. We are assets as entrepreneurs. Many thinkgrateful for the training, mentoring, practical assistance in the form of funding for of starting a business and never do.training and development, but most of all supporting us by providing work either Without starting, you will never getdirectly or through the network of Entrepreneurs that is YES. there. The life of an entrepreneur is far from traditional, yes, you will haveMy entrepreneurial path started at secondary school where along with some more independence and flexibility,schoolmates we started our first business M.Pact Screenprinters. M.pact continues but greater demands are placedto this day, along with a number of other ventures, some existing and others on your time. We are notorious forwhose time expired. This is what the entrepreneurial spirit is about, continued keeping long hours, and this lifestylegrowth and innovation, gaining and using experiences from the successes and can often clash with family life. Ithe not-so-successful ventures. strongly advocate that you start your business from early giving you moreA lot has changed on the entrepreneurial landscape over these years. It would time, which is in greater abundancehave been great to have had a YES or YES Juniors programme while we were in your youth. Get your business on astill at school, it’s never too early to start encouraging the enterprising spirit strong growth path to make it resilientthat many of our youth possess, and channeling it to create independence, and as the demands of family life increase.further economic growth. One huge change that has occurred since we started Involve your family where there is anis the growth of internet usage and social media. interest, and allow for both to grow together. This will enable a greaterSocial media is how we, and especially the youth communicate daily, and it has chance of continuity and stability.become a great leveler in business. Marketing has always been a challenge,and getting information to your target audience could be costly, timely to deliver, I want to take this opportunity to wishand its impact difficult to measure. Not so much anymore. On the social networks YES, and all associated entrepreneursand via websites the smallest business can now stand beside the largest one God’s blessing’s as you continue toand get its message out. grow over the years to come.Staying abreast of current technology and trends is also easier now, finding out 13how to do it bigger, better, and faster is at our fingertips. Some products andservices are more exportable, and we can keep better tabs on the competition. Ifthis is how young people communicate naturally, imagine the opportunity for theyoung business, run by young people already in possession of this powerful tool.Another critical component and benefit of having been part of YES over the last20 years is the ready and continually growing network of people and businesses.YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESRonald YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME SEALYAVID AGRONOMIST Ronseaco Farms #6 Sturges, St. Thomas 438-6159/231-0621 [email protected] 14
Harold Brathwaite SHIROLD’S PIG FARM Kristina Adams Sonja Dottin Genville GreenAdams Aqua Life New Beginnings Plant Superior Koi Farm Nursery 15YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESJamal YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME IFILLGLORIOUS GLASS SCULPTOR Crystal Forms Shop #17, Pelican Village St. Michael 435-3865/250-4794 crystalforms_barbados @yahoo.com16
Juliana Inniss PAINTED EARTH Don Small Antonio Harper Juanita PowleteTeardrop Art Studio Harper’s Artistry Juanita’s UpholsteryYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME & Craft 17
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESTroy YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION MAGNATE Williams Tools And Equipment Rentals #3 Robinson Close, St. Stephen’s Hill, St. Michael 424-2049/850-204918
Kay Baptiste ASHA’S COMPLETE SERVICES Adrien Powlette Wayne Hunte Dennis BellamyPowlette Enterprises Cable Solutions Inc. D.A.B. Plumbing &YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME Freighting 19
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESTricia-Ann YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME WALROND KROWN N’ GLORY BEAUTY SALON Tricia Ann Waldron Lot # 4, Seaview Park, St. Phillip 271-2673 / 829-3023 [email protected] 20
Samantha Browne XQUISITE NAILSRosita Alleyne Pro NailsStephen Best & Ian Bobb Maria Smith Charone Holder-Parris Hair Surgeons Allure Beauty Salon Cryssam’s Barber &YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME Beauty Salon 21
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESRivellino YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME SIMMONSMULTIMEDIA MOGUL Trident Entertainment Network #6 Harbour Road, St. Michael 262-0424 / 234-3730 [email protected] 22
Kelly Cadogan Adrian GreenEast Point Productions Poetic Philosopher Shamkoe Pile Skai MultimediaRahmat JnPierre Nathan Gibbons Melanie SpringerBlue Iron Media Parhelion 120 Stage Brownest Eye Productions Lighting 23YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESRozana YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME MOSELEYLA ROSA COUTURE Unit 3A Bldg 12, Wildey Indusrial Park, Wildey, St. 622-1369/235-1257/260-8306 [email protected]
Shanika Burnette SHAKAD DESIGNS Karen Brathwaite Khala Hurdle Cathyann BairdKosmic Vibes Designs Kalene’s Designs B You DesignsYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 25
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESAdrian YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME CATLYN CATERER EXTRAORDINAIRE Hothersal Turning #1 St. Michael 427-1934 / 243-5616 / 233-5511 [email protected]
Lilo Rowe Lana Whittaker Lil’s Delights EBONY BLOSSOMCorey Blackette & Sabrina CATERERS S&C Caterers Kevin Skinner Stuart Kirton Shawna Rollins& Gerard Massiah Healthy Eats Delicious Treats Cruiser’s Café 27YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
YES Team Roseanne Niles Gloria King Ancillary Staff Clerk/Typist28 YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
Claire Inniss Youth Enterprise Officer Coordinator - Entrepreneurial Development Training Programme Cherryann Jordan Youth Enterprise OfficerCoordinator - YES Juniors Programme Selma Green Manager Ryan Moseley Heather Jones Youth Enterprise Officer Youth Enterprise OfficerCoordinator - Accounting Service Coordinator - Marketing ServiceYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 29
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESSamuel YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME GITTENS SIGNAGE SPECIALIST M.grafix Inc. Sinckler Rd, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael 435-0294/232-0836 [email protected]
Israel Mallet IMOGEN DESIGN STUDIOSFaheema Patel Andre Boyce Jamar OdwinJunoon Designs Anlicor Azure StudiosYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 31
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESTroy YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME WEEKES DIGITAL MEDIA DEVELOPER Ezlearner Inc. #67 Crane Haven, St. Philip 233-5691 [email protected]
Curtis PadmoreWEST TOONZ INC. Julius Sealy Dexter Forde Trinity Business International Kiosk Solutions Developers Inc.YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 33
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESAngela YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME WENTANGELIQUE’S CUSTOM CREATIONS Angelique’s Custom Creations 34
Craig and Leandra Grant NINE ONE DESIGNS Rachel ClementsUnique & Rare Jewels Betty Marshall Roseann Carter Sharlene MaynardDoll House Creations Cliffmir Creations Ashlar DesignsYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 35
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESMelvin YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME BRERETONMAINTENANCE MAVEN Electrical And Building Solutions Inc. #10 Chad’s Plaza, Bank Hall Main Road, St. Michael 822-0189 [email protected] 36
Rondelle Hoyte SUPREME PAINTING & POWERWASHING SERVICES Clive AugustinC.A. Maintenance Services Emerson Clarke McDonald Culpepper Andre SealyPinnacle Service Big Red Toolkit ARJ Couriers Solutions 37YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISES Simone YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME ALLEYNEGENTAL TOUCH DENTAL CARE SERVICES Gentle Touch Dental Care Suite G E 2 “Eleise House”, Black Rock, St. Michael 417-0303 / Fax: 417-0700 38
Lynne Forde Martin O’neale LR Forde Medical Inc. CARIBBEAN ANAESTHESIA Sara Katherine Clarke CLINICMorgan Lewis Veterinary Services Inc Amoy Foster Tamisha Gittens Damien HenryVitality Pet Clinic Mobile Physical Bridgecot Wellness Therapy CentreYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 39
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESRyan YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME CLARKE SAFETY CHIEF Comprehensive Security Solutions Inc. 2Nd Ave Nurse Land, Tweedside Rd, St. Michael 233-3886 [email protected]
Tracy Belgrave Omari Eastmond Jems Pharmacy NEIGHBOURHOOD CARE Althea GambleCommunity Pharmacy PHARMACY Tisha Boyce Shari Maap Maria PhilipsChemscreen Laboratory Meer Geld Financial Aythawn International Services Services Law ChamberYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 41
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISES Heather YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME BARKER CLEARLY CONTENTCOMMUNICATIONS INC. Arthur’s Seat, Melrose, St. Thomas 438-7291 [email protected] 42
Dave Springer Ondene KirtonDAPS Entertainment HIGHER HEIGHTS Alex Carrington A3KD Inc Cheryl Tudor Mark Phillips Gregory CatwellTudor’s Funeral Home Climax Air-conditioning & Cheese Auto Glass Electrical Services FinishYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 43
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISES Steve YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME ANDREWSWELLNESS GURU Soothing Touch Da Spa #12 Frere Pilgrim, Christ Church 436-9405 [email protected]
Samantha Brown Cassandra HindsOcean Echo Stables TOUCH OF AN ANGEL Kelly-ann Allicot THERAPEUTIC SPAIbis Bath and Body William Beckles Desta Mikhail Chalise JordanLittle League Gym ZIZ Active Care ServicesYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 45
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISES Sasha YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME MAPPTHE COMPREHENSIVELEARNING ACADEMY # 1 Collymore Rock, St. Michael 243-7553 [email protected] 46
Janelle Mitchell SMART ARTS ROOM Sheena Alleyne Troy Holder Melinda BelleThe Student Centre Q’ Design & Marketing Astrape FinanceYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 47
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISESKelly YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME GRANT K&K CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL K & K Child Care Services # 12 Building, 6th. Avenue, Belleville, St. Michael 435-360648
Kimberley Sandiford TRUST CARE PROVIDERS INC. Joel Osford Natasha Reid Blessed to be Reid Honeyblossoms a Blessings Daycare & PreschoolYES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME 49
ESTABLISHED ENTERPRISES Elliot YES! THE MAGAZINE OF THE YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHEME DRAKESLIGHTING LUMINARY 3D Lighting Solutions Inc. Foul Bay, St. Philip 416-5517 / 265-1474 [email protected]
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