Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2024 continued its inspiring celebration with SLUDTERA hosting the highly anticipated Alumni Entrepreneur Panel on Day 2. This exciting event showcased entrepreneurial success stories from St. Lucian diaspora members and regional alumni, highlighting their journeys, challenges, and contributions to the entrepreneurial landscape.
Meet the Visionary Speakers
The event brought together six exceptional speakers, each with inspiring insights and transformative ideas:
- Clyelle Flavius, an innovative thinker and entrepreneur dedicated to shaping St. Lucia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through impactful solutions.
- Berlina "Chef Tafari" James, a culinary artist and digital creator whose creativity in the kitchen and online presence have made her a standout figure in the culinary world. (She encountered difficulty with her internet and could not join, but watched on YouTube).
- Ross Cadasse, an IT expert and business strategist who discussed the role of technology in sustainable entrepreneurial growth.
- Chef Ed Harris, a "CHOPPED" champion and food product developer who shared his inspiring story of carving out a global culinary career from humble beginnings in St. Lucia.
- Satra St. Louis, a business leader and advocate for economic empowerment, offering practical advice on overcoming barriers and maximizing opportunities.
- Isaiah Lorde, a dynamic young entrepreneur whose innovative approach to business and passion for fostering growth captivated the audience.
The panel was moderated by Michelle N. Samuel, SLUDTERA’s Country Director and a seasoned host, who ensured a lively and impactful discussion.
Event Highlights
The Alumni Entrepreneur Panel was structured into three insightful segments:
Opening Remarks and Introductions
Michelle N. Samuel welcomed attendees with an overview of Global Entrepreneurship Week and SLUDTERA’s role in empowering entrepreneurs. She introduced the panelists, spotlighting their accomplishments and the significance of their stories.
Panel Discussion Part 1: Challenges & Successes
The panelists shared personal accounts of their entrepreneurial journeys, highlighting obstacles they encountered and innovative strategies they used to overcome them. From limited resources to navigating competitive markets, their stories were both relatable and inspiring for entrepreneurs at all stages.
Panel Discussion Part 2: Diaspora’s Impact on Local Entrepreneurship
This segment explored how diaspora entrepreneurs can play a pivotal role in supporting St. Lucia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Panelists shared actionable ideas for collaboration, mentorship, and investment to foster a robust and inclusive local business environment.
The event’s Q&A session allowed attendees to ask questions directly to the speakers, encouraging a deeper dive into topics of interest and fostering interactive engagement.
A Celebration of Collaboration and Resilience
The event highlighted SLUDTERA’s mission to create a platform for learning, connection, and growth. By featuring voices from the diaspora and local communities, the Alumni Entrepreneur Panel showcased the potential of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful change and innovation.
Michelle N. Samuel concluded the event with heartfelt gratitude to the speakers and attendees, summarizing key takeaways and emphasizing the importance of continued engagement with GEW activities.
Missed It? Watch the Replay on YouTube
For those who couldn’t attend live, the Alumni Entrepreneur Panel 2024 replay is available on SLUDTERA’s YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@sludtera1062. This ensures everyone has access to the wealth of knowledge and inspiration shared during the event.
What’s Next for GEW 2024?
SLUDTERA invites entrepreneurs, supporters, and community members to participate in the remaining events of GEW 2024. From practical workshops to inspiring talks, there’s something for everyone seeking to learn, connect, and grow.
For updates on SLUDTERA’s initiatives and upcoming events, follow SLUDTERA on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and subscribe to the YouTube channel for exclusive content.
Global Entrepreneurship Week is a worldwide initiative by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), uniting millions in over 200 countries. SLUDTERA proudly champions this movement, fostering innovation, growth, and entrepreneurial spirit in St. Lucia and beyond.