BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A wealth of locally-produced goods and services was on display yesterday (Nov. 18) at the Independence Square, where an event was held in culmination of the observance of Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Known as Made Market St. Kitts, the activity brought together some 21 local producers of goods and those who offer varying services.
SKNVibes observed many goods and services that were on display, including handmade jewellery, clutch purses and other bags, agro-processed items, rustic furniture, skin care and hair care items as well as cuisine.
Creator and Organiser of Made Market St. Kitts – Anastasha Elliott – told SKNVibes that with such rich talent and skill possessed by the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, the event was the perfect opportunity for those individuals to display their creations.
“Essentially, it’s a market place for anything…products and services that are locally produced. We have about 19 vendors and they range from labour works to food to herbal, arts, bags, local dried goods, rustic furniture, jewellery etc.”
She said support for and participation in the event has grown since the first time it was held.
“When we did the first one, we had only eight vendors; now we have 21 today. Some couldn’t stay, so we had transitions throughout the day. Support and participation have both grown. The Department of Youth has supported us from the very beginning and now we have Development Bank coming on board as a sponsor for our Pitch Competition.”
Elliott explained that the Pitch Competition was organized by Dr. Marcia Brandon of the Caribbean Centre for Excellence for Sustainable Livelihoods in collaboration with the Development Bank, and that it provides an opportunity for the entrepreneurs to sell their or promote their business as a viable and thriving venture.
It is expected that more such events would be staged and that the support and participation would continue to gain momentum.
