Island Signatures Magazine Issue 15 - Women In Business

EDITOR’S NOTE

“

Hello! How have you been? We must ‘link up’ sometime!” …Does this sound all too familiar? A somewhat casual dismissive custom that we in the Caribbean practice when we stumble across someone from our past that we rather keep them in the past. However, as with everything there is change within individuals whether small or impactful, thus, the individual may have significantly changed or very little. Keep that in mind when you meet people within your daily lives as they may utterly surprise you with their new outlook on life. For some, it inspires the creative or innovative spark that propels them to greater heights. This August issue of Island Signatures is dedicated to those people, the ones that make a change within themselves.

In this edition, the Island Signature team collated new and interesting stories from across the Caribbean highlighting stories such as Trinidad Carnival: A newbie experience by Shanice Jordan page 20 to the birth of Naara by Simone Elliot page 30. We provide a platform to celebrate them and give these important, varied new voices a place to talk about who they are and what they stand for.

I tasked the team with bringing me big, bold ideas, and a new, more diverse, and inclusive approach. We have shone the spotlight on inspiring people who I hope will provoke stimulating debates.

The issue is loosely based on the theme of Change and we spent months

asking,’Do we have to do it the same way as we always have?’ More often than not we concluded that no, we don’t. So much was changing around us in the world of politics, fashion, music, literature and online as we worked from very early mornings (me) to late, late nights (the team) coming up with a new creative template under the skilled and watchful eye of the owner of Island Signatures Magazine Justin Ellis.

Write poetry? Island Signatures is for you! Have a hot take on a current issue? Island Signatures! Interesting carnival journeys? Island Signatures! Whatever it may be, we hope you find your creative (or serious) niche with us. So now it’s over to you. What do you like about Island Signatures and what is missing? Let us know on social media @ISLANDSIGNATURES or email  islandsignatures@gmail.com and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.”

Editor’s Note: Damien Porter

Chief Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

Writer

Simone Elliott Writer

Justin Ellis Publisher Shanice Jordan

Damien Porter

IF MY SOUL COULD SPEAK

By:Kimmette Robertson

Written By: Katrina King

Endless possibilities for Caribbean creatives  “...leverage the region”

The banshee cry for regional cooperation has persisted for decades, predating

CARICOM, OECS and the West Indies Federation. However, it has been amplified withgeo-political shifts and the strengthening of south of the Caribbean relations.

Across the sectors of agricultural, trade and industry, tourism and travel, technology,culture and creativity - the call has intensified.

One of the current individuals leading the call is Lisa Harding, the Head (Ag) of the Private Sector Development Division of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Boasting a career spanning over 20 years, primarily focused on developing policy,financing options and providing technical assistance for SMEs [small and medium-sized enterprises], Harding believes Caribbean creators and entrepreneurs must “leverage the region”.

the economies, we have small pockets of people in the sector, [so] leverage the region. On our own, we are unable to provide the critical mass to be able to compete with those larger trading blocks,” responded Harding when questioned if Caribbean creatives could succeed in the fierce competition from the Latin American or African markets.

“At the end of the day, when they are outsourcing, they are going to want to say that they want ‘X’ amount of hours of work done or product completed that might need 200 animators... whether it is Barbados or Trinidad, they are not going to meet that criterionbut collectively we can” Harding further explained.

Demand for Caribbean content

Referring to a cultural convention hosted in Mexico in 2022, she revealed that as entertainment providers such as Netflix seek to diversify their products, there is a demand for Caribbean content, but the region must take the reins and initiate the production of quality content readily available for streaming platforms.

Companies such as Spotify have voiced, they would rather deal with one sole company that consolidates music across the region. Therefore, collaboration is key.

Much like “Marvels’ The Avengers”, Caribbean countries are stronger together than separate. Alone, islands such as Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, and St Lucia, are merely specks in the multiverse, but collectively, the region may have a chance.

“We have small economies and within

Not to sound like a broken record, but there is strength in numbers.

Arguably, instead of submitting to North American media companies that are foreign to the cultural sensitivities of the Caribbean, its’ history and its’ relationships, the region can create a media, for example, an online

“United we stand, divided we fall.”

streaming website - this is something

Harding ardently endorses. “I am ambitious. I think we can have the next Caribbean Spotify or Caribbean Netflix. We have always consumed. We have been great consumers of content, but we can create and sell to the world. I think we have something unique; the demand is there but we just need to harvest it, work together and grow.”

As The Head of CDB’s Private Sector Division, Harding is aware of the pressures and struggles faced by those in the creative economy. She is one of the biggest advocates and supporters of cultural practitioners and creatives.

Cultural & Creative Industries Innovation Fund is ahead of its time

Harding and her team spear-headed the Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF), which was established in 2017.

Innovative and ahead of its time, CIIF came through just in time to mitigate some of the effects of the economic turmoil - also known as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The multi-donor fund was established with an initial US $2.6 million from the CDB, to support the development of the creative industries sector in the Caribbean. The goal of CIIF is to enable the region’s cultural and creative industries to be globally competitive.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the region, the cultural and creative industry was devastated.

Within a blink of an eye, everything was paused. Fashion shows, concerts, festivals,etc. came to a complete halt.

Much like a country that sources disaster relief funds after a hurricane impact, CIIF came to the aid of creatives across the region, with a special Emergency Relief Grant. From Barbados, Belize, and Jamaica, seven projects that abided by the CDB pillars of sustainability, innovation and collaboration were selected.

Barbadian performing arts education company ‘Operation Triple Threat’ received a grant of US$20,000 to host its first-ever virtual show. Kingston Creative from Jamaica was awarded US$8,000 to execute the 2021 Downtown Kingston Art District Virtual Artwalk.

Access to grant funding options for SMEs has increased, but Harding notes the ‘red tape’ from the commercial banking sector prohibits economic development.

“I am disappointed that the commercial banking sector has still not come on board in a way to embrace the support of SMEs. They still see them as really high risk and therefore, a lot of SMEs, especially startups, are unable to access financing….. but of course, we are continuing to seek alternatives, trying to also develop and build the business case, look at alternative instruments to still fight against that constraint,” she maintained.

Harding contended that creative entrepreneurs need to ‘organise their books’ and take the leap to be educated on business proposal writing, financing, and money management, to further

develop their businesses - this can also be done through CIIF, since the programme also training and educational tools.

Future of CIIF

The Head of the Private Sector Division wants the region’s creative and cultural SMEs to evolve and collaborate, even going beyond the Caribbean and South America, but with a focus on entering the African continent.

“Now that we have a bit of a model for the regional corporation, how do we take that to the rest of the world? How do we make those links and strategic partnerships with others?

Right now, there is a big thrust with Caribbean and African linkages. How can CIIF then play a part in that? Because there is going to be a lot more exchange and we have a lot of similar ities that can be easily embraced and the African market is massive,” Harding remarked.

She added: “It takes a village and the village includes not just creatives. . . . You need to have a voice, so we know what we are responding to, or where there is a need. You need to package your needs or have persons of advo cacy on behalf of the sector. Sometimes it is too polarised, and we want it to come together because it takes a village for the effect to be sustainable and impactful.”

Practical Solutions to Protect Your Property During Hurricane Season

Writt en By: Destinee Taylor

As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your property. By implementing practical solutions, you can minimize potential damage and ensure the safety of your home and belongings. Let’s explore five effective strategies to protect your property during the hurricane season presented by Zen Realty Management.

1. Secure Doors and Windows:

One of the most vulnerable areas during a hurricane is your property’s openings, such as doors and windows. Install storm shutters or plywood covers to protect windows from strong winds and flying debris. Reinforce entry doors with sturdy locksand hinges. Consider upgrading to impactresistant windows that can withstand the impact of wind-blown debris. It’s also important to inspect and repair any existing damage to doors and windows well before the hurricane season begins.

2.

Trim

Trees

and Secure

Outdoor Items: Overhanging branches and weak trees pose a significant risk during hurricanes. Trim trees close to your property, removing dead branches and reducing the risk of falling limbs. Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and garden tools by storing them in a secure location or anchoring them down. These precautions will help prevent loose objects from becoming projectiles that can cause severe damage to your property and neighbouring structures.

3. Reinforce the Roof: The roof is highly susceptible to wind damage during a hurricane. Inspect your roof for any loose or damaged shingles and repair them promptly. Consider reinforcing the roof with hurricane straps or clips to anchor it securely to the structure. Reinforcing the roof’s sheathing with adhesive or nails can also provide added protection. Regular roof inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure its integrity and

minimize the risk of leaks or collapseduring a hurricane.

4. Clear Gutters and Downspouts:

Before the hurricane season begins, clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. Clear away leaves, debris, and any obstructions that can impede proper water flow. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup, potentially causing roof leaks and structural damage. Ensure that downspouts extend away from the foundation,directing water at least six feet away from the property. Proper drainage will prevent water accumulation and minimize the risk of flooding.

5. Develop an Emergency Plan:

In addition to physical preparations, it’s essential to have a well-thought-out emergency plan. Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and shelters. Create a communication plan with your family or housemates, designating a meeting place and establishing a method for contacting each other during an emergency. Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

6. Think About Your Tenants’ Safety:

Aside from emphasizing the security of your property, it is critical to assist your tenants in dealing with potential dangers in a humane and proactive manner. Ensure that your tenants understand their flood zone level, evacuation considerations, potential evacuation plans, local shelter options, and what items they should have in their\ hurricane emergency kit. By giving assistance and pertinent information, you establish a safer atmosphere and foster good relationships with your tenants.

7. Keep Legal Property Documents Stored Safely:

During hurricane season, it is crucial to keep important legal property documents secure and easily accessible. This includes leasing agreements, insurance policies, and contact information for emergency services. Keeping digital copies of important papers in a secure online storage system enables easy access and backup,even in an emergency. Legal documents safeguard both your property’s interests and yourrenters’ rights amid unanticipated scenarios.

8. Loss of Business Insurance for Income-Generating Properties:

Loss of business insurance is highly recommended for investors who own income-generating properties such as rental apartments. This insurance protects your financial interests and ensures that your firm can continue operating after the storm, even if property damage occurs. You may limit any financial losses and focus on supporting your tenants during the recovery process if you have the correctinsurance coverage in place.

In conclusion, by implementing these practical solutions and emphasizing tenant safety, you display a dedication to both the physical security of your property and the well-being of your tenants. Proactive actions like fastening doors and windows, cutting trees, fortifying the roof, and emptying gutters not only minimize the danger of property damage but also promote a sense of trust and caring in your community. Furthermore, providing important information to tenants, carefully maintaining legal property documents, and having adequate insurance coverage demonstrate your commitment to their

safety and the long-term success of your business. Let us navigate hurricane season together with resilience and empathy, maintaining a safe environment for all.

Instragram: @zenrealtymanagement

Website: https://zenrealtybarbados.com/

Written By: Shanice Jordan

.

Trinidad Carnival: An Experience of a Lifetime - From the Eyes of a Newbie

There was a great buzz of excitement this year 2023, as carnivals were returning to normalcy without a doubt most persons have put the pandemic behind them and was willing to venture out again.

As 2022 being used as a test run for most countries to see best way forward for future carnivals while dealing with the latest covid cases predictions, most masqueraders where ready to be on the road again and everyone anticipated the full swing of celebrations.

Grab your crew!! Trinidad Carnival 2023 was an epic journey, that’s how our ‘carnivalist’ Kris described her first ever experience. Playing mas with ‘Yuma 2023’, Kris had a chat with us about her adventures.

Kris who is an average carnival goer, had partaken in three carnivals since the pandemic: Miami, Atlantic and London. However, when the borders of Trinidad had re-open for carnival goers, her friends decided to take a trip down to the Caribbean for a different pace.

Pace indeed as Kris told us this was not what she expected, she partied with her other ‘Trini’ friends as they prepared for the energy carnival was going to bring, unfortunately, for her it was a whole different level of pace

when she had finally reached as it was an unmatched energy.

In her words the experience was Exciting, Exhausting and Extremely Beautiful!

As Kris played mas with ‘Yuma VibeAwaken Treasure’ this year and was pleasantly happy with the band team from beginning to end. She mentioned the massage therapist at the rest stop and the in-band concierge for backpacks as some additional bonus amenities that was a highlight for her. As a plus sized woman, she was thankful for the designer David Dewer for providing her with such an impeccably made costume, although it was the most priced costume she had ever purchased; it was the best decision she ever made, and her costume still looks as amazing as the day she received it.

Prior to Carnival Day, Kris and her crew had attended numerous fetes’: one that really stood out to her was Vale Vibe, which displayed a great ambiance and vibe that she had never experience in her usual parties back home. The parties she attended where all fun and flare with amazing food, pretty décor and wonderful, friendly people as she made new friends for the season. The drinks kept flowing and the vibes never ended.

As she partied to the melodious sounds of the carnival, Nailah Blackman and Skinny Fabulous – Come Home, Bunji Garlin – Hard Fete and Nadia Batson –Soca Party were her top favourites and really put her in a hyper mood, their stage performances and high energy were great moments she enjoyed.

One top contributor to Kris’ carnival experience is ‘Carnival Jumpers’ who provided a concierge service to her and other masqueraders who were partaking in Trinidad Carnival. She thanked the team for making transitioning from USA to Trinidad a seamless process and making sure they got to and from their events safely, all the while having numerous amounts of laughter and fun along the way.

Although Kris’ experience to the carnival was amazing, she wanted to ask other designers to be mindful of costumes designs noting that they are women with many different body sizes, shapes and curves. Even though, it’s hard to please everyone, she felt more attention could be made to costume designs as some ‘fell a little flat on the road.’

‘Lost Tribe’ which was on her mind as a second runner up, also had amazing designs and she enjoyed seeing their artistry designs on the road and congratulated them on the great work as masqueraders looked beautiful.

Kris provided some quick Carnival Tips for future carnival goers.

Tip 1

Eye Mask – these came in handy when travelling from fete to fete as traffic was heavy on the roads. She got some quick naps in-between to prepare her body for the next event.

Tip 2

Fanny Pack – an amazing bag of accessories that every carnival goer should have to keep essentials near to you and have ample space.

Tip 3

Hydrate – the sun is hot and the alcohol flows but don’t forget to hydrate with lots of water, it also helps with hang overs.

Tip 4

*Electrolytes Packets – the level of pace is intense, and you will need every once of energy. You can get these as a quick way to boost your body with vitamins.

As Trinidad Carnival 2023 ends and 2024 is upcoming with new vibes and energy. Kris encourages anyone to take up the experience as it was truly a carnival of a lifetime and take your friends, have fun and be safe while doing so. She will return in the future to experience more vibes, more fun, more flare and more pace.

*Disclaimer - it is important to note that these packets are not a substitute for proper hydration, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider before using electrolyte packets*

JESSIE WOO of DISH NATION enjoying Crop Over in Barbados with Krave The Band

VINCY MAS 2023

Written By: Simone Elliott

Battershield, a name as powerful as it sounds perfectly describes the owner and creator of Naara - Elements of Beauty, an up-and-coming Barbadian skin care brand backed by God and proven results.

Unlike most entrepreneurial stories, Sherry-Ann Battershield admits that this business was not her main goal. Naara began as an idea, a conversation with a friend about earning extra income on the side, but who would have thought that it would have materialized into something so successful. Naara grew from humble beginnings and continues to blossom despite the odds.

Naara was created when Sherry-Ann enrolled in a soap making class in a spur of the moment feeling, she recalls the price being $400 and at the time not knowing the outcome of the class and where it would take her was a big gamble, but in return this became an investment in her future. Battershield had no idea or plan really to pursue this initial side hustle further than necessary, however with time and favour, Naara was born and grew into something beautiful.

Sherry-Ann’s first product was soaps which she started in 2015.New dimensions business market - first start up One of Battershield’s premises is not being afraid to start small as she details how one of her first soap molds was a pringle can. With determination to make the best of what she had, Sherry-Ann recounted that the soap business was doing well, the

feedback was great, and customers were interested in what else she had to offer. Through another conversation, this one unintentional, her motivation was inspired by a client at the nail salon who overheard her telling someone she believed she could make body butters. This was all the confirmation she needed to try, ….. as she already had one client.

Failure is inevitable in any aspect in life, and she was not afraid to fail as she notes her first attempt at the body butter ‘did not pan out’, but that did not deter her because she made several attempts and eventually expanded her product catalogue.

Sherry-Ann makes no effort to hide that her business and success thus far is rooted in God and throughout our chat, she detailed how involved the hand of God was, and continues to be in her life plans. She also credits programs like Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) and Barbados Manufacturers Expo (BMEX), a local business expo which is like a large pop-up shopthat hosts multiple businesses so that owners can showcase their products. Sherry-Ann’s was seeing exponential growth after her BMEX experience and as a side note encourages others to do the same.

Challenges for Naara

With any great endeavour comes challenges, and her journey was no different. Her biggest challenge was the money cycle, as she puts it “you need to get money to make money”. In other words, there had to be some kind of cash flow for her to make more. Nonetheless, the challenges did not stop there, as the owner is also the spokesperson, the Accountant,

Brand Manager, and of course Marketer. This meant Sherry-Ann had to figure out her target market, how she would attract customers and most importantly, how to retain customers. It also meant that despite what was going on in her life, she had to maintain control over these responsibilities and these lessons could not be learnt at a better time. Covid-19 had businesses in a state of uncertainty, and it was even more uncertain for small businesses. Conversely, Naara which means ‘blessed of God’ was able to survive and actually thrive because Sherry-Ann began exporting products.

This experience reinforced the need for discipline in business for Sherry-Ann. It meant she had to work harder, and as she said throughout the interview “if you don’t work, you don’t eat.”

Another valuable lesson this young entrepreneur learnt was that success was not linear and things do not always go as planned. She candidly spoke about “detours and obstacles that take you off path, but it is focus and faith in God that will keep you on track”. She also opens up about the diversity of the business; she recognized that her sole purpose was not just to make and sell products but to give back. Naara was initially a product-based brand, but it eventually grew into so much more, it led to Sherry-Ann hosting classes which she describes as a humbling experience. She spoke on connecting with people on a deeper level with something as simple as skincare. Her goal did not change; it merely expanded to include impacting people and fulfilling a greater purpose.

Her purpose manifested with her

returning to her alma mater, the Ellerslie Secondary where she would teach Home and Family Life on Fridays, she recounts that the response has been good and it was something she looked forward to.

Entrepreneurship is by no means an easy feat. It takes a certain level of passion, patience, and discipline to be a successful entrepreneur. Sherry-Ann notes entrepreneurship transformed her mindset, she had to be more intentional about decisions as they could literally make or break a business. She makes sure to declare that even with said qualities, God is a big factor in the success of business.

She also had to use her time wisely, there was no more time wasted whether it be on making a decision or something physical, she had to make active plans and be proactive. Although, Naara was a spur of the moment idea - her decisions could no longer be, they had to be purpose driven.

This also meant putting pride aside and asking for help: no one person has all the answers and sometimes we need to ask for help. This also meant being honest – “you have to be honest with yourself and recognize when something is more than you can handle alone”. She also had to be open to learn, being a business owner and juggling all the job titles means that there is always something to learn, there are always new concepts and strategies.

As the learning experience continues to unfold, Sherry-Ann opens up about the things she would have done differently but also notes that she has learnt and grown from certain mistakes

in business. She describes Naara as “mushrooming”. It is growing quietly; but growing nonetheless.

What makes Naara unique?

Battershield describes her brand as an experience: she is selling an experience not just a product and she proudly boasts Naara uses local raw materials in their products. One of Sherry-Ann’s most important beliefs is based on integrity “Until people know you, they only have your word”, which meant she had present herself how she wanted to be seen. She believes that you must be a ‘solid’ person as you are the face of your brand. After about seven years, Naara will soon have a physical home, but for now she can be found online at www. naaraelements.com or check out some of the products available in the Grantley Adams International Airport.

ADVERTISE WITH US

INSTRUCTIONS

LUCIEN GAUDIN

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 oz. Monin Orange Spritz Syrup

1 1/2 oz. lemonade

1 1/2 oz. wine

1 1/2 oz. premium gin

St.Lucia Jelly Trifle

2 cups custard

1 packet of raspberry flavoured jello

1/2lb sponge cake or stale cake

INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS

Dried fruit, cherries and nuts to decorate

1. Prepare the custard and allow to cool slightly.

2. Slice the cake and arrange the slices in brandy glasses or a glass dish of your choice.

3. Prepare the jello as per its directions and allow to cool.

4. Once cool pour over the cake.

5. Place in the fridge and allow to set.

6. Once set pour custard cover and chill until cold.

7. Decorate.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

KIMMETTE ROBERTSON

SHANICE JORDAN

KATRINA KING

KRAVE THE BAND

DAMIEN PORTER

SIMONE ELLIOTT

WAVE ELEMENT

VINCY CARNIVAL

TRACY BOYCE

HITCH PHOTOGRAPHY

SHERRY-ANN BATTERSHEILD

NAARA ELEMENTS

KRIS J

otmslu.wixsite.com

Destinee Taylor

zenrealtymanagement

CIIF

L ISA HARDING ,the Head (Ag) of the Private Sector Development Division of the Caribbean Development Bank

JADE CARTER

Shane Forde - 8bitx Designs