Caribbeanpreneur

Tell Your Story

2011-05-07T14:07:00.000-05:00

Do you have an interesting story about how your business got started and the lessons you've learned? We want to share it at YES Caribbean.
Send us a video no longer than three (3) minutes and we will use it during one of our sessions at this four-day conference.
Drop us an email with a YouTube link or just post the link on my Truly Caribbean Woman Facebook.com fan page.Make your video exciting by inserting images of you at work, you with clients or the products you sell. Be sure to include your contact information and website address.

Looking forward to hearing your entrepreneur's story.

Actress/Entrepreneur Dionne Audain returning home for YES Caribbean

2011-05-05T17:11:00.001-05:00

BRADES, Montserrat – It’s been 20 years since actress Dionne Audain has visited her homeland of Montserrat and she is returning as a presenter and instructor at YES Caribbean, a conference for entrepreneurs May 25-28, 2011 at the Montserrat Cultural Centre.

Dionne left Montserrat at the age of seven prior, having grown up around Plymouth and later St. Johns in the North.

“This opportunity is quite necessary at this point in my career. So much has happened since I've been there socially, politically, economically and of course geographically. Now coming back as an actor/ entrepreneur it's going to be great to share my experience, my expertise as well as catch up and tour the island and see my family and best childhood friends,” Dionne said of her upcoming visit.

The actress has been racking up her acting credentials over the past decade. She will be on island to be a feature presenter at YES Caribbean 2011 and also lead the Movie in a Week project, which will teach production skills which can be used to make full length feature films or to add visual elements to small business promotions.

“I am very pleased that Dionne accepted our invitation and has jumped enthusiastically into the project to help build our visual expertise. As a region we need to show the many different facets of our islands. This includes improving how we promote our businesses.We need to showcase Montserrat more and in many different ways. The more persons with the skills and the capacity to show the island and the Caribbean through their eyes, the more exposure we can bring to our business and our economies,” said Nerissa Golden, organizer of the conference.

Dionne Audain is known for her powerful performances delivered with genuine authenticity with major credits in television, feature films and national and regional commercials. Audain has tackled roles from a preacher’s wife to secret service agent, proving that she has both breadth and depth as an actress. This incredibly talented actress began her career as consultant in corporate America before beginning her journey into acting.

Moviegoers were introduced to Audain in her independent film debut A Shepherd of Pure Heart (DVD, 2003). Audain gave a standout performance as Elizabeth Upton, a supportive, loving and demanding wife. In early 2005, Audain was seen in indie short Tuffy Low-low, as Mrs. Ward, a tough administrator in charge of a private nursing home. Other indie film supporting roles include The Evils, Like Water, Finding My Precious Basquiat, The Euphoria Project, Poof and Manuel Chavez.

Audain made her feature film debut as an actor portraying Abe Lincoln in the comedy/drama Rocket Science (2006) for director Jeff Blitz, a story about a teenage boy with a horrific stuttering problem who joins his high-school debate team in an ill-fated effort to win the girl of his dreams. In early 2009 Dionne was handpicked for a role by Joel Schumacher himself, for his latest feature film Twelve. The film’s cast includes such notables as Keifer Sutherland, Chance Crawford, Emma Roberts, Rory Culkin and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson slated for release in 2010. She filmed Salt which stars Angelina Jolie and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Her other films of note include: Sex And The City 2 where she’s featured as a teacher at Brady’s school in a scene with Cynthia Nixon; The Happening where she got the opportunity to work with director M. Night Shyamalan and alongside Zoë Deschanel despite her scene being cut; Rocket Science directed by Jeff Blitz with actors Nicholas D’Agosto, Margo Martindale, Vincent Piazza, Reece Thompson and Aaron Yoo.
Dionne’s television work includes a Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, a re-occurring role on the hit HBO series The Wire alongside Dominic West, the short-lived FX series Starved with Del Pentecost, All My Children and America’s Most Wanted.

The NY Times hailed that in her stage work Dionne “has a nice, natural air…” She has toured nationally with The John F. Kennedy Center, appeared off-Broadway at venues such as Urban Stages, The Queens Company, Roundtable Ensemble, Target Margin Theater and has worked regionally at Arena Stage, African Continuum Theatre Company, Folger Theatre, Theatre of The First Amendment, Shakespeare & Company and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. Dionne also has numerous local, regional and national commercials and print campaigns for companies such as BlackberryGov.com, Subway, Walmart, Maryland Lottery, Bath Fitter and Health Care for America Now.

To learn more about Audain and the Movie in a Week project visit www.yes.trulycaribbean.net or email info@trulycaribbean.net.

Three ways to Attend YES Caribbean on a budget

2011-05-05T17:10:00.001-05:00

Are you still wavering about whether you can be at YES Caribbean or not? Waver no more.

YES Caribbean, a conference for entrepreneurs and persons looking to make a change in their career is just one month away. We have scholarships available for persons who wish to attend but cannot afford the EC$ 500 conference fee. There are five full scholarships which will allow you to participate in activities on all four days May 25-28, 2011 and ten part scholarships for persons who pay for one day session at EC$200. You will be able to attend another day of your choice at no extra cost. Another way you can take in the conference and get the same experience is to volunteer to be part of our support team.

We want to get the information to you from the dynamic speakers/entrepreneurs who will be here for the week. We want to give you every opportunity to dream it, believe it and live it. Don't miss out.

Please email me at info@trulycaribbean.net and be sure to download your registration form at the link in the sidebar.

Nerissa Golden, Organizer

Business Beyond Borders the focus of Day One at YES Caribbean

2011-05-05T17:09:00.001-05:00

[caption id="attachment_445" align="alignleft" width="299" caption="Montserrat is for adventure and nature lovers and has vast potential for entrepreneurs to make their mark if they are ready to take on the challenge, says Nerissa Golden, organizer of YES Caribbean from May 25 to 28, 2011. In photo, View of Rendezvous Beach, Montserrat’s only white sand beach from Silver Hills. (Photo by Billy Darroux)"][/caption]

BRADES, Montserrat – Montserrat needs the Caribbean and the Caribbean needs Montserrat, if we are all to make our mark on the world stage in business and as trendsetters. This is the belief of entrepreneur and organizer of YES Caribbean 2011, Nerissa Golden.

YES Caribbean 2011 will take place on Montserrat May 25-28, 2011 at the Montserrat Cultural Centre and brings together entrepreneurs and industry leaders from the region to build partnerships, share ideas, and learn techniques of how to improve their business.

“The share size of Montserrat with only a population of 5000 requires that we network and look to the regional marketplace to sell our goods and services and also to buy products and develop new ways of conducting business,” Golden said. “No matter the size of your company or if you are a one-man show, having regional connections expands the options for meeting a client’s needs and gives you a broader base to sell your merchandise.”

“Day One of the conference will look at doing business beyond our borders. How can we use social media to market our business, building our brands? How do we protect our creative works in a virtual environment and how can we benefit from the OECS Economic Union and other regional formations.”

The four-day conference is a combination of seminars and practical workshops in brand development, filmmaking, dance, and fashion. It also provides a daily opportunity for delegates to sell their services and make new business connections.

“We want to see entrepreneurs from the region attend and bring their products to promote and market themselves,” invites the entrepreneur. “Montserrat also has great potential for new business ventures so this is a chance for people to come and be introduced to the island.”

Speakers for the event include the Caribbean’s leading Social Media expert Ingrid Riley of Connectimass Jamaica, Business thought coach and career expert Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe, cyber security expert Greg Richardson, life coach and dance instructor Susan Barnes, and fashion designer Kaishah Peters of Knitty Kitty St. Maarten.

To see the full schedule for YES Caribbean, the list of speakers and to register, visit www.yes.trulycaribbean.net.

Movie in a Week at YES Caribbean

2011-05-05T17:08:00.000-05:00

We are taking the chance of a lifetime and the challenge of creating a movie in just one week.

Will it be a feature length film or a short documentary? Who knows? But we want you to come along for the ride.

The week begins on Monday May 23 and Tuesday 24th, with a intense video production session where you can learn camera, lighting and sound and the beginnings of editing.

Once YES Caribbean begins on Wednesday then 25th we will incorporate other attendees into the production session as writers, on screen talent and production assistants.

You get to help create the story we will all tell together.

Register for YES Caribbean to participate in this hands on programme as well as learn from the many experts who are ready to share their knowledge to help you build your business.

Regional entrepreneur’s conference coming to Montserrat May 2011

2011-05-05T17:04:00.001-05:00

BRADES, Montserrat – A regional entrepreneur’s conference YES Caribbean is coming to the island of Montserrat May 25-28, 2011.

According to conference organizer and host Nerissa Golden, YES Caribbean 2011 is for entrepreneurs who are ready to launch their first enterprise or more established business owners who want to expand beyond their present borders.

“Montserrat has been given a unique opportunity to rebrand, redevelop and reinvent itself in the 21^st Century. The private sector is one area that has great potential for development and we believe that hosting this conference here will assist in bringing new ventures to life,” says Golden.

YES brings together more experienced Caribbean entrepreneurs to teach seminars and workshops to aspiring business people and other entrepreneurs from around the region. “It is an awesome time for networking and building new partnerships, as well as identifying entrepreneurs that can benefit from more one on one support to advance their venture,” added Golden who held the first event in 2006 on St. Maarten.

YES 2011 will include Master Classes in video production, acting, dance, and fashion as well as special sessions for leaders of industry and government on developing a film commission for Montserrat, transitioning workers from the public to private sector, and taking advantage of the OECS Economic Union and the CARICOM Single Market & Economy.

“The entire region is in transition and people and governments are searching for new ways to cut costs and increase revenue. YES Caribbean will provide opportunities for people to network and market their services to show they have skills that are transferrable to other islands and other markets,” said the host.

The full list of speakers and conference activities are available on www.yes.trulycaribbean.net. Persons can also request the application or sponsorship pack by contacting goldenmedia Montserrat at info@trulycaribbean.net.

Present Economic Challenges is an Opportunity for Caribbeanpreneurs to Shine

2008-10-26T13:15:00.001-05:00

Fight Economic Fears with Knowledge and Love, says Author and Entrepreneur, Nerissa Golden

MONTSERRAT, W.I. – “Although the reports of a dire tourism season is cause to tighten our belts, it is also a time to free our thinking and move outside the box,” says entrepreneur and author Nerissa Golden.

Golden is the founder of the Young Entrepreneurs Symposium and Truly Caribbean Network, a non-profit foundation established to create opportunities for Caribbean people globally.

The Caribbean is bracing for a tough tourist season as many of the largest world economies are struggling to regain their financial footing. Governments and tourism organizations are scrambling for solutions and many are fearful of whether they will have a job in the coming months.

“This is not a time to allow fear to control and limit your thinking. It is time for Caribbeanpreneurs to find new strategies to get ahead. This crisis is also creating new opportunities and we need to open our eyes to see them,” added Golden.

The entrepreneur suggests that people who may be fearful of losing their jobs in the coming season first of all, see the time ahead as a great moment of transition which can be to their benefit. Many of the most successful billionaires made their money during the toughest economic times, she explained, enterprising Caribbean people can do the same.

“First this is not just a problem for Caribbean governments to solve for its people. Each of us can take steps to improve our personal economic situations. The small kitchen business can probably be a greater source of income with a better strategic plan and some promotion. Rather than pressure clients who are also experiencing the same financial crisis to pay you all at once, find alternative payment structures to alleviate their burden and yours, barter where possible and be patient,” explained the author of The Making of a Caribbeanpreneur: Strategies for Overcoming Fear and Building Wealth.

Golden, who is also a single mother said that every effort must be made to alleviate stress as the tendency under pressure is to lash out at those closest to us. “Be very watchful of increased areas of stress and find positive outlets to combat the pressure you may be feeling. Children and spouses are not verbal or physical punching bags. It is actually a time to reach out in love and give to others. The greatest power to overcome fear is love and this economic challenge is a good time to practice this.”

The Making of a Caribbeanpreneur: Strategies for Overcoming Fear and Building Wealth and a Truly Caribbean Woman’s Guide to Good Love will both be available shortly in bookstores.

More ideas on combating fears and finding solutions to financial and emotional struggles are available online at www.trulycaribbean.net. The author and speaker can be contacted at info@trulycaribbean.net for advice and training.

Women Entrepreneurs Wanted for World Survey

2008-08-08T09:37:00.002-05:00

NEW YORK (July 31, 2008) – A worldwide study on women entrepreneurs is presently being conducted by Dr. Andrea Smith-Hunter, an Associate Professor at Siena College in New York.

Dr. Smith-Hunter is studying the impact that female entrepreneurs have in seven regions of the world; Africa, South America, North America, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Europe and Asia.

The regions left to be completed are the Caribbean, Europe, Eastern Europe and Asia.

“I truly believe that women hold the key to the economic power of our future and so this project is to gather more data to establish that view. It has been an interesting process to discover the impact that women with small micro-enterprises are having on their community and even their nation,” said Smith-Hunter.

The questionnaire will take no more than 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Women can either choose to download the form and return it by mail or fax or fill in the form electronically and email it back to the researcher.

Dr. Smith-Hunter who is originally from Jamaica, holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Studies from the University at Albany – State University of New York. Her research interests include entrepreneurship across racial, ethnic, gender and economic lines. She has been published in the Journal of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Journal of International Business and Entrepreneurship, Women in Management Review and the Journal of Business and Economic Research, among others. Her first book, Diversity and Entrepreneurship: Analyzing Successful Women Entrepreneurs, was published in 2003 by University Press of America. Her second book, Women Entrepreneurship Across Racial Lines: Issues of Human Capital, Financial Capital and Network Structures, was published in 2006 by Edward Elgar Publishing.

Coordinating the project for Dr. Smith-Hunter is Nerissa Golden, the founder of YES, the Young Entrepreneurs Symposiums in the Caribbean. “This research will be a vital tool than can enable governments to understand the value of their female population and the impact they are already having and act accordingly to support them. It should also inspire not just women but men as well to consider starting their own businesses and follow the path that many have chosen and continue to navigate successfully,” Golden said. The entrepreneur is presently completing work on her second book “The Making of a Caribbeanpreneur: Overcoming Fears and Building Wealth.”

More information about the research can be obtained by contacting Nerissa Golden at info@trulycaribbean.net to participate in the survey.

Will There Be a YES 2008?

2008-03-11T11:30:00.002-05:00

At this time, all plans are on hold to host the third Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2008). The goal right now is to build up the resources available online so that you can be equipped to start and run your own business effectively.

Please visit www.trulycaribbean.net to access all our small business ideas and tips for succeeding in a Caribbean environment.

Look out for events that Nerissa Golden will be speaking at throughout the coming months.

Special Women at YES 2007 - by Loic Bryan

2007-06-01T12:17:00.001-05:00

Man, I would not have gotten through this conference without my big sister, Dianne. Big props to her for keeping her cool and just keeping me organized. She also won the Never A Dull Moment Female Award but slipped through without a public award at the reception.
Lady Zelma Prentice, from Nevis was a joy to get to know. Her new babysitting service is taking off and she came to YES 2007 to learn how she could maintain and grow her venture. You can check out her story on www.trulycaribbean.net.
Tessa Clark-Chaderton is an extraordinary cook and we found out just how good she is during our closing reception. Her mango bread was to die for and we can't wait to hear how her new catering business develops.
Stephanie James is journalist, professional translator and also the host of Women West Indies. While on St. Kitts she and her husband took the time to interview many local women who are shaking things up in the federation. You can also check me out on an upcoming episode.

The Guadeloupeans - Photos By Loic Bryan

2007-06-01T12:09:00.001-05:00

Mr. Paul Naprix was put in a tight squeeze when he was voted Mr. Dressed To Impress.at YES 2007. His wardrobe everyday was tight and won the category hands down. Now he has to explain to his colleagues in the general counsel how he won a fashion award on a business trip.

Proof positive Delphine was at YES 2007. You guys missed her stunning performance as a rape victim being interviewed on a TV talk show during the film workshop with Frances-Anne Solomon.
Cheers Antony, Thanks for organizing such a fabulous group of young people to attend YES 2007.

YES 2007 Photos by Loic Bryan

2007-05-29T12:30:00.001-05:00

The delegates from St. Maarten and Guadeloupe, Montserrat and Nevis gathered at the hotel to take pictures before heading off to the Ambassador's home for our closing ceremony and reception.
Dylan Lamaille of Guadeloupe made a presentation to the conference sharing what his high school is doing to promote entrepreneurship.
"Mr. enovations" Justin Griffith of Montserrat documented all of the fantastic workshops that took place. They will be available shortly on a highlight reel.

More Pics at YES 2007 - Photos by Loic Bryan

2007-05-29T12:14:00.000-05:00

Greg Richardson checks in at the Marriott Front Desk - Dion was one of the friendly staff we met while on St. Kitts.
I missed Trevor Blakes, Investment 101 workshop. Everyone said it was awesome and most are ready to start playing the market. I got to watch the dvd and see what I missed.
Everyone listened eagerly during Trevor Blakes, Friday morning seminar. Blake is the General Manager of the Securities Exchange.
Carol Mitchell of Leyton Microcomputer makes final adjustments to her presentation on technology.

YES 2007 Mini Expo

2007-05-28T15:27:00.000-05:00

Awards

2007-05-28T15:10:00.000-05:00

Patricia Caines of St. Kitts won the Excellence in Entrepreneurship award. We simple loved her unique jewelry made from semi-precious stones. In photo above, we are both wearing necklaces she made. (Photo by Justin Griffith)
Stephanie Duggins of St. Kitts is well on her way to starting her first interior design business. She commented that every session was full of information that she can use to make her dream a reality.

Photos of YES 2007 - Delegates

2007-05-27T14:28:00.001-05:00

YES 2007 Speakers - Photos By Justin Griffith

2007-05-27T14:25:00.000-05:00

Sandra Guishard, St. Kitts spoke about The Creative You...How to develop your talents and deal with it as a business.

Roger Brisbane Caribbean Phone aka 888 St. Kitts

Gregory Richardson of Secure Tech International, St. Maarten

Frances-Anne Solomon of Leda Serene Films, Canada

Paul Naprix, representative of the Regional Counsel of Guadeloupe greeted the audience during the opening ceremony.

Oral Dowell of Dowell Advisory Services, Barbados

Photos From YES 2007

2007-05-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

Roger Brisbane of 888 St. Kitts speaks to delegates about carving out a niche in the very competitive communications market.

Filmmaker Francis Anne Solomon of T&T and Canada shares her story of developing Leda Serene Films and her passion for telling the stories of Caribbean people.

Oral Dowell of Barbados kicked off the list of top-notch presentations with "Are You Ready to Be An Entrepreneur." He challenged the entrepreneurs to break many of the mindsets and patterns of behaviour that have dogged Caribbean people for generations. He mapped out a strategy for success that was easy to understand and execute.

Photos by Justin Griffith and Delphine Tinval

St. Maarten Entrepreneurs Win Big At YES 2007

2007-05-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

BASSETERRE – St. Maarten entrepreneurs maintained bragging rights at the close of the second annual Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2007) which was held on St. Kitts from May 23-26.

During Saturday evening’s closing reception and Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur Awards hosted by Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle of the St. Kitts/Nevis Federation, Loic Bryan, Anderson Percival and Gregory Richardson of St. Maarten were recognized for their entrepreneurial spirit.

US$ 15,000 in services and products from goldenmedia were given away as prizes to the winning entrepreneurs.

Anderson Percival of NFluence Records and In Sports Magazine received the TrulyCaribbean.Net Innovations Award and US$5,000 in services to develop his companies’ strategic plan, marketing concept, media kits and online advertising.

Loic Bryan, a much sort after graphic’s designer and illustrator was recognized as the Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur in Technology, WINAIR’s On The Move Award recipient, and the Never A Dull Moment Award for keeping the delegates laughing.

Gregory Richardson, CEO of Secure Tech International for the second year won the award for most Outstanding Speaker in Technology.

Other winners were Mikieda Franklin, a fashion designer who was the most Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur in the Arts; Patricia Caines, a jewelry maker – Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Oral Dowell of Barbados was the Outstanding Business Planning Speaker while Filmmaker Frances-Anne Solomon was the most Outstanding Speaker in the Arts.

Conference host and goldenmedia owner Nerissa Golden said the delegates all agreed the atmosphere at YES was one of togetherness and openness. “The opportunities to network and forge new alliances were important results of YES 2007.”

She added that the Guadeloupe delegation, which comprised students, entrepreneurs, journalists and government officials, broadened the possibilities for the development of the conference throughout the Caribbean.

“We are counting on you Ms. Golden to assist us in our efforts to expose our youth in Guadeloupe to the wider Caribbean,” Paul Naprix of both the General and Regional Councils of Guadeloupe told the organizer during the closing reception. He added that YES 2007 has made a great impact on his delegation and they are looking forward to returning home to implement many of the ideas they received during the conference.

YES 2007 Begins on St. Kitts

2007-05-24T20:59:00.000-05:00

BASSETERRE –The second annual Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2007) opened on Thursday morning at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle of the St. Kitts/Nevis Ministry of Industry & Commerce welcomed the delegates in attendance which includes entrepreneurs from St. Maarten, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Nevis and St. Kitts.

She said her government recognizes that for the continued growth of the nation the mindset of “our people must become more business oriented. This conference is part of our plan to promote our young people to develop an entrepreneurial spirit. It is possible to take all of our niche businesses into an organized setting.”

The ambassador said that we need to see our creative skills such as dance, singing, arts and craft as marketable skills. The official referred to the island’s sugar industry which was closed two years ago, which brought to bear that other sources of development must take place.

Nerissa Golden, conference host and entrepreneur remarked during the opening ceremony that YES 2007 is a vital tool that Caribbean people can make use of to help turn their passions into enterprise. She added that when we identify our personal gifts, many of them can also be used to provide an income and improve our personal resources and communities.

Paul Naprix of the General Council of Guadeloupe greeted the delegates during the ceremony. He said that the presence of 10 delegates from Guadeloupe represents the strong emphasis of the council to expose their youth to the wider Caribbean and to events and innovative methods of thinking. He added that the council is preparing for a major conference scheduled for later in the year called “To Study & To Work in the Caribbean” to identify opportunities for young people from Guadeloupe to cooperate and work within the region.

Mr. Naprix told the Ambassador that although the political structures are different, there are things that are deeply Caribbean that unify us.

The conference is packed with outstanding presentations from speakers from around the Caribbean. Oral Dowell of Dowell Advisory Services from Barbados set the stage with his “Are You Ready to Be An Entrepreneur” workshop dealing with the emotional and mental preparation necessary to begin a business. He expounded on strategies that can be used to pursue investors for financing as well as mitigating the risks in any start-up venture,

Other presenters included Gregory Richardson of Secure Tech International of St. Maarten who presented a wealth of information on how Caribbeanpreneurs can use technology to advance their business; T&T-born Frances-Anne Solomon of Leda Serene Films Canada discussed the development of her film company and making Caribbean-themed programming; while St. Kitts fashion designer and artist Sandra Guishard spoke about “The Creative You: Using natural talents to earn a living.”

YES 2007 continues on Friday with more workshops on investment, business financing and marketing. A much anticipated session is the filmmaking workshop where delegates will be able to use cameras and cell phones to make a short movie.

The conference ends on Saturday evening with the Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur Awards, which will be hosted by Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle.

More information can be found at online at http://caribbeanpreneur.blogspot.com.

Photo caption:

YES 2007 Conference Host and entrepreneur Nerissa Golden with Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle of St. Kitts & Nevis and Paul Naprix of the Guadeloupe General Council. The conference began on Thursday and closes on Saturday May 26 with the Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur Awards. (Photo by Justin Griffith)

Filmmaker Frances-Anne Solomons of Trinidad discusses the importance of telling our Caribbean stories on film, video and through all available media during the creative workshop at YES 2007 on St. Kitts. She said that technology has now made this possible by reducing the high cost of production and new avenues such as You Tube mean that the entire world can now hear and see our stories. (Photo by Justin Griffith)

Nerissa Golden and other speakers can be contacted by calling Tel: 1-869-667-6978.

YES 2007 Conference Schedule Updated

2007-05-23T14:34:00.000-05:00

DAY ONE: Wednesday, May 23 2007
1- 5pm Registration in hotel lobby

DAY TWO: Thursday, May 24, 2007

8:00 – 8:45am Registration
9:00 – 9:45am Opening Ceremony
· Opening Prayer
· Welcome & Overview of YES 2007 – Nerissa Golden, Conference Host
· Remarks from St. Kitts & Nevis Chamber of Commerce & Industry Rep.
· Opening Keynote Address – Ambassador of Plenipotentiary, St. Kitts/Nevis Ministry of Industry & Commerce
· YES 2007 Officially Begins
10:00 – 10:45am Are you ready to be an Entrepreneur? – Oral Dowell, Barbados
10:45 –11:00am Coffee Break
11:00 –11:45am How Can Caribbeanpreneurs Make Use of Today’s Technology To Advance Our People and the Region? Greg Richardson (St. Maarten)
11:50 – 12:30pm Telling Caribbean Stories on Film with Frances-Anne Solomon, Leda Serene Films, Canada/T&T
12:30 – 2:00pm Lunch
2:00 – 3:00pm The Creative You – Sandra Guishard “His Glory”, St. Kitts
3:00 – 3:45pm Me Inc. – Sharon Rattan of Vivacci Dancers speaks on Developing a Business in Dance
3:45 – 4:00pm Coffee Break
4:00 – 4:30pm Making Money on the Net: Can You Really? - Nerissa Golden, goldenmedia
4:30pm Announcements and wrap-up

DAY THREE: Friday, May 25, 2007

9:00 – 10:00am -Investment 101 with Trevor Blake, General Director of Securities Exchange Commission
10:05 – 10:45am -How can entrepreneurs use technology to expand their client base and services outside of their island and the Caribbean with Carol Mitchell? (St. Kitts & Nevis)
10:45 – 11:00am -Coffee Break
11:00 – 11:45am -Case Study: 888 Phone - Finding Your Niche in the Marketplace with Roger Brisbane (St. Kitts)
12:00 – 1:00pm - The Noah Principle: Strategies for Financing Your Dream with Nerissa Golden
1:00 – 2:00pm - Lunch
2:00 – 4:00pm -Film Workshop with Frances-Anne Solomon (bring your video cameras or camera phones)
2:00 – 2:35pm -Finding Your Niche in the Tourism Market with Christine Walwyn, Director Tourism
2:45 – 3:45pm - Artist Development Workshop – Launching your creative careers (copyright, marketing, building a portfolio) with Nerissa Golden
4:00 – Coffee Break
4:30pm – Say YES to Entrepreneurship (Workshop Wrap Up) Final Q & A/Evaluations
6:00pm - Friday After Dark – Event and Venue (TBA)
*** Attire Conference T-Shirt and jeans

DAY FOUR: Saturday, May 26, 2007
9:00am - YES 2007 Conference Photo
10:00 - Island Tour & Shopping
Press Conference
7:00pm - Outstanding Entrepreneurs Reception & Awards (Grand Ballroom) sponsored by the Ministry of Industry & Commerce

* Attire is Professional Business wear unless otherwise noted
** Speakers and workshops may change

Opening Ceremony

2007-05-21T20:22:00.001-05:00

To accommodate a number of overseas guests who will not arrive until Wednesday evening, it has been decided to move the opening ceremony to Thursday morning at 9am.

The general public is invited to attend.

An updated schedule of workshops will be available shortly.

YES 2007 Begins Wednesday on St. Kitts

2007-05-20T18:19:00.000-05:00

BASSETERRE – The second annual Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2007) begins Wednesday, May 23 at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

The event which was created by goldenmedia is being sponsored by WINAIR NV, TrulyCaribbean.net and endorsed by the St. Kitts Ministry of Industry & Commerce.

Conference Host and speaker Nerissa Golden said she is excited YES 2007 is here as it provides another opportunity to meet more of the talented Caribbeanpreneurs who are following their dreams and starting their own business.

“This event is about motivating entrepreneurs to continue and to encourage others to join the game. We will only be empowered as a people when we are established in all arenas including the business world. Many Caribbean people have poor money management habits and give up too easily when pursuing own dreamstrol of our own resources. Entrepreneurship is a powerful tool that more of us can use to change our personal circumstances and make lasting changes which will impact our communities,” Golden explained.

The conference begins at 1pm on Wednesday with open registration followed by a Rules of Engagement Workshop to give delegates tips on the best way to get the most from the four-day event. The opening ceremony will begin at 5pm and will include presentations by government officials and executives of the host nation as well as cultural performances. A welcome reception follows the ceremony.

The main workshops take place on Thursday and Friday with presentations in the areas of finance, technology, marketing, filmmaking, fashion, business planning and more. Conference speakers include Trevor Blake of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, Oral Dowell of Barbados, Carol Mitchell of St. Kitts, Gregory Richardson of St. Maarten and Frances-Anne Solomon of T&T who now resides in Canada and Nerissa Golden.

YES 2007 will close on Saturday evening with the Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur Awards to recognize those in attendance who are excelling in various enterprises. The WINAIR On The Move Award will be presented to the delegate who shows the most promise for starting the next big venture. Other categories include Outstanding Entrepreneur in Technology, The Arts, and the TrulyCaribbean.Net Innovation Award.

Golden says persons can still register on opening day at 1pm at the St. Kitts Marriott. The latest conference information is available on the YES 2007 blog at www.trulycaribbean.net.

Note for St. Kitts/Nevis Nationals

2007-05-19T15:38:00.000-05:00

Did you know it costs you only US$150 to register for YES 2007.

Take advantage of this special rate to gain the advice and expertise of some of the finest minds in the region.

Get help with developing a business in music, fashion, dance, technology, hospitality and more.

Visit the Ministry of Industry of Commerce to register or see you at 1pm on Wednesday May 23 for open registration.

Options

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You have options plain and simple.

You have the option of continuing to accept mediocrity and always blame the other guy for being better than you or you can choose to get up and go after your dreams.

YES 2007 is all about making the dreams come through. Dreaming is not just for kids, it is actually your personal movie theater to a better life. The trick is to know when its time to put the dream into action. The Young Entrepreneurs Symposium is the tool you can use to get there.

Four days of energy and motivation and practical help to make your business a reality, to turn that side gig into a big earner and to take your small enterprise into a global phenomenon. Let us help you get started.

See you in St. Kitts Wednesday May 23 for registration and the opening ceremony.

Register Today

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You still have time to join us in St. Kitts for YES 2007. Registration fee is US$ 350 and you do not want to miss this opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs and showcase your products and services.

YES 2007 is a wonderful time to perfect that sales pitch you have been working on. So bring along your business cards, brochures and portfolio.

Remember that all general sessions are business attire only.

Contact 011-599-523-3731 if you have questions or if you need us to reserve a room for you. You can also email us at info@trulycaribbean.net

YES 2007 is For You

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Who should attend YES 2007 on St. Kitts?

Anyone with a dream to work for themselves. There are business plan writing workshops, marketing and customer service seminars and much more.

If you have already begun living this dream, YES 2007 has lots to help you grow and expand your venture. Do not miss the finance and investment seminars to learn how you can grow those profits you are making.

Need a little technical assistance? Then be first in line for the creative workshops on dance, music, fashion and film.

There is something for everyone. Download your form and send it in today.

YES 2006 - Photos

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The Round Table sessions provided the opportunity for delegates to talk up close with the speakers. In this photo Danielle Dieffenthaller (center) answers questions about developing her T&T-based Earth Television.

YES 2006 was made possible by the grants and sponsorships from the St. Maarten Government, the Tourism Bureau, the Small Business Development Fund, RBTT Bank, WINAIR, the SNAYDP and many more community-minded companies.
There was so much good information to be learned and delegates had a choice between two sessions for each hour. YES 2006 was attended by entrepreneurs, college and high school students from around St. Maarten and the Caribbean.
YES 2006 provided many moments to relax and enjoy the atmostphere at the Sonesta Maho Resort. Nightly activities included, receptions, tours, and the Outstanding Awards ceremony.
All of the sessions were information-packed. There was a lot of good advice giving on taxes, choosing the proper business set-up, financing and marketing.

DAY ONE: Wednesday, May 23 2007

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1-3pm Registration in hotel lobby

3-4pm Rules of Engagement: Making the Most of YES 2007

5pm Opening Ceremony

· Arrival of Gov. General

· National Anthem by (TBA)

· Opening Prayer

· Welcome Address by Master of Ceremonies

· Overview of YES 2007 – Nerissa Golden, Conference Host

· Greetings from Youth Government representative

· Remarks from St. Kitts & Nevis Chamber of Commerce & Industry Rep.

· Opening Keynote Address: Are Caribbean Government policies favorable to young Entrepreneurs? A Look at CSME – by Minister of FA, IT, I, C& CA

6:30pm – 8pm Welcome Reception sponsored by Ministry of Industry & Commerce

DAY TWO: Thursday, May 24, 2007

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8am – 8:30am Registration (Day Visitors)

8:45am – 9:00am Introduction and Welcome by Nerissa Golden, Conference Host

9:00 – 10:45am Are you really ready to be an Entrepreneur? – Oral R. Dowell, Barbados

10:45 –11:00am Coffee Break – Sponsored by goldenmedia

11:00 –11:30am General Session – Taking on the Telecom Giants with Roger Brisbane, 888 (St. Kitts & Nevis)

11:40 – 1:00pm Importance of a Business Plan for Advancing Your Idea

1:00pm – 2:00pm Lunch

2:00pm – 5:00pm National Creative Workshops – Film, Dance, Fashion : Get practical help to improve your skills and enhance your earning potential (Room assignments to follow)

2pm – 3pm Technology Round Table: How Can Caribbeanpreneurs Make Use of Today’s Technology To Advance Our People and the Region? Greg Richardson (St. Maarten.)

3 – 4pm Making Money on the Net: Can You Really?

4pm – 4:30pm Coffee Break – Sponsored by www.trulycaribbean.net

DAY THREE: Friday, May 25, 2007

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9:00am – 10:00am Investment 101 with Trevor Blake

10:05am – 10:45am How can entrepreneurs use technology to expand their client base and services outside of their island and the Caribbean? With Carol Mitchell (St. Kitts & Nevis)

Me Inc. – Balancing Business and Personal Life with Dance Choreographer Susan Barnes Pereira (Cayman Islands)

10:45am – 11:00am Coffee Break - Sponsor: goldenmedia

Media Interviews with Conference Presenters

11:00am – 12:00 The Business of Fashion

Marketing Basics

12:00 – 1:00 Somebody Send Me An Angel – Financing Your Dream with Angel Financiers

1:00pm – 2:00pm Lunch

2:00pm – 5:00pm National Creative Workshops – Film, Dance, Fashion : Get practical help to improve your skills and enhance your earning potential (Room assignments to follow)

Presentation from the Chamber of Commerce – Finding Your Niche in the Tourism Market

4:00pm Coffee Break – Sponsored by Sistergirl Business Network

4:30pm – 5:30pm Round Table: How real a threat is the HIV/AIDS epidemic to young entrepreneurship growth?

6:00pm - Friday After Dark – Event and Venue (TBA)

*** Attire Conference T-Shirt and jeans

DAY FOUR: Saturday, May 26, 2007

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9:00am – 10:00am Say YES to Entrepreneurship (Workshop Wrap Up) Final Q & A/Evaluations

YES 2007 Conference Photo

10:00 Island Tour & Shopping

Press Conference

7:00pm Outstanding Entrepreneurs Reception & Awards with Fashion Show (Grand Ballroom)

* Attire is Professional Business wear unless otherwise noted

** Speakers and workshops may change

Fashion, Finance & Film

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BASSETERRE – When friends kept asking for advice on how to start a business or write a marketing plan, Nerissa Golden did more than answer their questions and offer her expertise, she created an event to give entrepreneurs from around the Caribbean the chance to learn and get the push they need to turn their passions into enterprise.

The second annual Caribbean Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2007) will be held May 23 - 26 on the island of St. Kitts. This year’s event will be a collaboration of Golden’s event management firm Goldenmedia and the St. Kitts & Nevis Ministry of Industry and Commerce, headed by Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle.

“Caribbean people have always been enterprising but there is also a level of fear to step into new territories or to use the skills that come naturally to us to earn a living,” explained Golden. “I firmly believe that our natural gifts are the key to changing our economic circumstances and changing our communities. But we must learn how to use them and manage them to our benefit.”

YES brings together Caribbean entrepreneurs who are looking for ways to expand their business outside their borders, network with other entrepreneurs and learn more about developing sustainable enterprises. A select group of high school and college students are invited to learn how to start their own businesses.

Rather than using high-priced conference speakers to draw a crowd, Golden looks for more experienced entrepreneurs who are willing to come in and speak to the up and coming crop of Caribbeanpreneurs.

“They understand the physical, emotional and financial challenges of trying to start a non-traditional business in a very traditional environment. The speakers come in and tell it like it is, while offering practical advice on starting on a limited or no budget and how to manage the success as it happens” the organizer said. “We are gathering a dynamic group who are ready to share their knowledge in a variety of areas. This year we have added more practical workshops to the conference schedule, to enhance the theoretical seminars.”

“Learning how to make it through the tough times and understanding that any new business will have hurdles to get over is the first step to surviving as an entrepreneur,” the former newspaper editor said. “Not giving up on your dream is the second step to making it as an entrepreneur.”

Blog This

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I am always searching for more information on becoming a better entrepreneur, how to improve my business plan and of course where to find money. The YoungEntrepreneur.com Blog is a great site for ideas and to learn what other entrepreneurs like us are doing to make their dreams come true.
Check them out and you might find a few ideas on how you can finance your trip to YES 2007 in May.

WINAIR - The Official Airline for YES 2007

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We are pleased to announce that WINAIR NV has agreed for the second year to be an official sponsor.
The company will once again be flying delegates from around the Northeastern Caribbean to YES 2007 on St. Kitts. They will also be the official carrier for the conference staff and speakers.
We encourage you to visit their website to book your flights to St. Kitts for this event and all your travel needs.

Reserve Space For Creative Workshops

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We know that you sometimes need practical help to improve your skills as a young entrepreneur and that is why we have added the National Creative Workshop to YES 2007.
This year, we offer sessions in dance, fashion and film with professionals in their own right. More workshops may be added in other disciplines.
You do need to reserve a spot in these speciality workshops as spaces are limited to ensure you get some personal time with the instructors.
Register for YES 2007 TODAY and be sure to select the workshop you wish to attend on the form.
First come. First served.

YES 2007 Moving to St Kitts in May

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ST.KITTS – The 2nd Caribbean Young Entrepreneurs Symposium (YES 2007) is moving to St. Kitts May 23-26. This year’s event will be a collaboration of goldenmedia and the St. Kitts & Nevis Ministry of Industry and Commerce, headed by Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle.

According to Nerissa Golden of goldenmedia, YES brings together Caribbean entrepreneurs who are looking for ways to expand their business outside their borders, network with other entrepreneurs and learn more about developing sustainable enterprises.

“The global and highly competitive environment in which we operate has many challenges and we at the Ministry are very cognizant that capacity building opportunities for our young entrepreneurs is vital to their development,” said Ambassador Hazelle. "Partnering with YES 2007 can provide benefits for our young aspiring business persons. "

Golden, who is both a business and social entrepreneur said delegates can look forward to another outstanding line-up of speakers. “We are gathering a dynamic group who are ready to share their knowledge in a variety of areas. This year we have added more practical and technical workshops to the conference schedule, to enhance the theoretical seminars.”

New areas to be dealt with in May include “Investment 101”, “Developing a Brand”, and “The Business of Fashion” and much more.

In photo: Conference speaker and host of YES 2007 Nerissa Golden with Ambassador Rosalyn Hazelle of the St. Kitts & Nevis Ministry of Industry & Commerce.

Tech Speakers at YES 2007 - Greg Richardson

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Last year’s Most Outstanding Speaker at YES 2006 on St. Maarten will be back. He wowed the delegates with his story of more start-up failures than anyone could endure and shared how his new company has been born on the lessons learned from the past. His practicality and easy down to earth style provided the motivation many in attendance needed to make the next move to starting their business.

This year he is given us the low down on the latest happenings in the area of network security and information management. Of course he always has the most interesting new products to demo during the Tech & Arts Expo so make sure to check out his booth.

You can read more about his company in our news feature “Rise of the Caribbeanpreneur.”

It goes without saying that music, dance and any of the creative arts are simply a part of being Caribbean. We also believe that this is another important area that more of our people can excel in and earn a living.

Tech Speakers at YES 2007 - Carol Mitchell

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Mitchell is GM of Leyton Microcomputer Services, which was started by her father Clive Ottley in 1984 on St. Kitts. Despite their location, they have built a long client list that continues to expand regionally. The company specializes in providing intelligent information management solutions to its clients. Two of their main products are their payroll systems, Wages Plus and customs brokerage systems, both targeted at the regional market.

Carol is a Project Management Professional whose experience has provided her with a combination of in-depth knowledge of information systems and a deep understanding of business practices. She has been developing information systems since 1986, beginning in Basic, DBase and Clipper and graduating to Microsoft Visual Basic and other more modern technologies.

In a bid to strengthen her knowledge and understanding of business fundamentals, Carol completed an MBA at the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business, where she concentrated in Finance and Information Systems.

Over the years, she has supplemented her formal education by taking on a variety of projects in the Caribbean region and in the United States. She has gained invaluable experience in consulting, project management, software development and the conversion of old "legacy" systems to more modern platforms. She is continuously exposed to the latest technologies. Carol is also a Microsoft Certified Visual Basic Developer.

Caribbeanpreneur Awards

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Nominate yourself or a deserving entrepreneur for this year awards gala on Saturday, May 26.

Categories include:

Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur in Technology
Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur in The Arts
Most Innovative Caribbeanpreneur
Outstanding Conference Speaker
Most Enterprising Caribbeanpreneur

Tickets for the gala are US$100. The keynote speaker will be announced shortly.

Susan Barnes-Periera Back at YES 2007

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Back for our second installment of YES is Susan Barnes-Pereira. She was voted YES 2006’s Outstanding Arts Speaker with her incorporation of movement and dance in presentations.

Susan opened our eyes to just how her passion for dance is opening up new areas of expression and merging with visual art to form a whole new type of performance art.
Susan Barnes Pereira is the owner and Director of Barnes Dance Academy Limited. She is a founding member of the Cayman Islands National Dance Company – Dance Unlimited. Mrs. Barnes Pereira trained with Lorna Reid of Dance Unlimited, Jamaica School of Dance, Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre, Susan Taylor at the University of Tampa and holds a Masters Degree in Dance Education form New York University.

She brings with her a wide national and internal performance experience as well as a range of teaching experience including Creative Movement to children and teaching dance for the special child.

“Movement is the purest form of communication and it is a gift for which I am grateful, a means of self expression, a means of understanding my environment and the way that I choose to communicate with the world.”

This year she will be giving a seminar on work-life balance and also training during the National Creative Workshops on Thursday and Friday afternoons. NCW has limited spaces but it is worth it to attend to get in on the intensive choreography and technique classes on modern contemporary dance.

T&T Filmmaker at YES 2007

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Frances-Anne Solomon is an award-winning Filmmaker,Writer and Producer in Film, TV and Radio. She trained in Theatre Arts at the University of Toronto, and the Lecoq School of Mime in Paris before moving to Great Britain where she built a successful professional career with the BBC as a Producer, Director and Writer. Since her return to Toronto in 1999, she has continued to create, direct write and produce television and film projects through her own company, Leda Serene Films.

Her current feature film, A Winter Tale, premiered at the Reel World Festival in Canada in April 2007. She originally developed the story through a collaborative process with a group of talented Canadian actors, and in January 2006 adapted and produced it for a successful run as a stage play. In 2005, she created and launched Literature Alive, a unique multimedia company that produces and markets documentaries, audio books, radio programmes and an educational website that arededicated to showcasing the uniqueness and value of Caribbean-Canadian writing and writers.

In 2003, she co-created, directed and produced the groundbreaking Canadian sitcom Lord Have Mercy! that was originally broadcast on four Canadian networks and nominated for two Geminis. In 2002, she established CaribbeanTales, an innovative multimedia not- for-profit that promotes and celebrates the rich tradition of Caribbean-heritage storytelling through a variety of multimedia products.

Her other directing credits include Peggy Su! (BBC Films 1997), What My Mother Told Me (Channel 4 1995), Bideshi (BBC Films/British Film Institute 1994), and Valentine's Night (BBC21993) as well as documentaries: Reunion(BBC2, 1993) and I Is A Long Memoried Woman (Arts Council of England 1991). For BBC Single Drama & Films as a Script Editor, Producer and Executive Producer, she was responsible for several films and TV movies, including the Black Screen strand (for Black writers, producers and directors) and Screen on the Tube (for new feature directors). Here, her productions included Speak Like A Child; Love Is The Devil; The Sixth Happiness, Flight, and Siren Spirits.

YES 2007 Highlights

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Wednesday, May 23

Rules of Engagement at 3pm
Opening Ceremony at 5pm
Welcome Reception at 6:30pm

Thursday, May 24

National Creative Workshop for Filmmakers, Designers and Musicians from 2pm to 5pm
Fashion Forward Workshops from 2pm to 5pm

Friday, May 25

National Creative Workshop for Filmmakers, Designers and Musicians from 2pm to 5pm
Fashion Forward Workshops from 2pm to 5pm
Friday Night After Dark

Saturday, May 26

island Tour and Shopping
Outstanding Caribbeanpreneur Awards Gala and Fashion Show at 8pm