TTCSI Quarterly 20 by TTCSI

ISSUE 20 JAN - MAR 2015

QUARTERLY KEEPING SERVICES IN THE SPOTLIGHT

E ERVICES XCELLENCE IN

National Services Week 2014 - Building Bridges

Second Trini Woman to sail around the World

The Carnival Gateway Hub Launch-I3M

TTCSIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus for 2014 was to create the right linkages and form strategic partnerships to build and empower the services sector through education, innovation and motivation.

This article documents and highlights Vidya Petterson's achievement and passion for sailing and the opportunity that exists for a thriving Yachting Industry in Trinidad and Tobago.

Is a one-stop, global web portal platform that will provide substantial business and services support to improve the productivity and efficiency levels in the masquerade sector by creating a space for every stakeholder to promote and sell their services.

www.ttcsi.org

Table of Contents PRESIDENT’S EDITORIAL By Angela Lee Loy

BUILDING BRIDGES TO LAST A LIFETIME

NATIONAL SERVICES WEEK 2014

By Tori-Ann Haywood

FEATURING: WINNERS • Young Service Provider

Sueann Ramsingh

1 - T&T Chamber of Industry & Commerce

By Ryan De Souza 2 - TUCO

By TTCSI

• Service Provider Of the Year

14 15 16

Massy Technologies InfoCom (Trinidad) Ltd.

By TTCSI

• Best Use Of Innovation By TTCSI By TTCSI

• Best New Service Award

CARNIVAL GATEWAY HUB-I3M OPENS THE WORLD TO - "MAS GONE GREEN”

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TERTIARY EDUCATION TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GROWING OUR RANKS: LEED EXAMS COME TO T&T HRMTT CELEBRATING 25 YEARS CARVING A WAY FOR HUMAN RESOURCE PRACTITIONERS

19 20

RSC International

By TTCSI

By Dr David Rampersad

Jesse James (Individual)

By TTCSI

By TTGBC

DYKON Developments (Caribbean) Ltd.

• Service Provider Of The Year

BUILDING A STRONG TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND BROADCASTING BACKBONE TO FACILITATING ICT DEVELOPMENT IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

TriniTrolley.com

• Service Exporter Of the Year

By Vidya Jeremiah Petterson

By TTCSI

By Tori-Ann Haywood

• Associations Of The Year

SECOND TRINI WOMAN TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD

By HRMATT

THRTA GALA AWARDS

A WOMAN’S HEALTH… A VITAL NEED TO EXAMINE

By Nicole Joseph-Chin

SME FINANCING: BRIDGING THE GAPS

I AM GREEN BUILDING COMPETITION

THE VALUE OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT

SERVICES GO GLOBAL

WHAT’S GOING ON

THE FRAUD CULTURE

MEMBER’S CORNER THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO RISK MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE

By TTCSI By TTCSI By TTCSI

By Ryan De Souza

By Jerome Chambers

CSR: THE ART OF SUSTAINABLE CORPORATE GIVING

YO PRO GLOBAL

By The TTCIC

By Brett Torina

EDITORS Dixie-Ann Dickson Roslyn Carrington PUBLISHED BY Eidetic

CONTACT US Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries 45 Cornelio Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain Tel: 622-9229 Fax: 622-8985 Email: info@ttcsi.org Website: www.ttcsi.org

The Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) is an umbrella, non-governmental, business support organization established to encourage the growth and development of the services sector. b In particular TTCSI: assists service providers to identify and exploit market opportunities; lobbies government and international agencies on behalf of services providers; develops capacity among local services providers; assists in the development of standards and certification to access foreign markets and ensures that member interests are represented in trade negotiations.

We are also the local body responsible for issuing the CARICOM Service Provider Certificates. Our membership includes associations in the fields of financial services, hospitality, construction, ICT, midwifery, cultural industries, customs brokerage, human resource management, T&T Cosmetology Association, and pest management. b Services account for more than 51% of GDP and contribute an average of TT$43 billion annually to the local economy.

The views and opinions expressed or implied in TTCSI QUARTERLY are solely those of the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by TTCSI.

All info herein is the property of TTCSI and may not be reproduced without prior consent. 03

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Angela Lee Loy, TTCSI President

As the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ (TTCSI) President, I take pride in what the organisation has achieved in 2014. The TTCSI has made significant progress in meeting its objectives, improving its brand and strengthening our base and Members’ Association, but not without its challenges. I served as President for the latter half of 2014, but the milestones we have accomplished are significant. The theme of this magazine is Celebrating Excellence in Services, as we would like to

highlight the recipients of TTCSI’s Excellence in Services Awards and shed light on the expanding services sector. First, I acknowledge the tireless efforts and contribution of the TTCSI staff to the National Services Week 2014 - they always strive towards the goal of professionalism and always cultivate an environment of innovation and success. Second, congratulations to all the recipients who received awards for their dedication and commitment to the services sector! For 2015, we plan to host training workshops and initiatives that would assist in further building the capacity of the services sector, which include Business Continuity Management, Network for Economic Empowerment for the Women of the South, a Street Arts Festival, and our Services Talk

radio show will continue to highlight the value and potential of the sector by providing a very vital platform for their voices to be heard. This year will come with its own share of challenges, lessons, and victories, but I look forward to the bright path ahead. Our direction is clear, our staff is motivated, and our mission for 2015 is to scale up and continue to be the voice of the services sector, which is our unwavering responsibility. I wish you all a great and successful 2015! Hoping that you all your hard work for 2014 brings greater rewards for this year. TTCSI has begun its new year with the same momentum that we had when we closed 2014.

THE YEAR 2015 MARKS A NEW ERA OF TTCSI!

NATIONAL SERVICES WEEK 2014

TO LAST A LIFETIME Written by Tori-Ann Haywood

“The creativity and consistency of National Services Week (NSW) 2014 show us that the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) has a lot to offer,” said one participant at the Excellence in Services Award ceremony. This was one of the many statements that hummed through the NSW 2014, which was held at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Centre during the ﬁrst week of November. The TTCSI’s National Services Week culminates every year since 2009, during the ﬁrst week of November, to acknowledge leaders and innovators in the services sector, and to build the sector through training and workshops. This year it was held from the 3rd to 6th November, under the theme Building Bridges. “I have been to the NSW every year, but this year the staff outdid themselves with a sincere sense of professionalism,” says Mahindra Satram-Maharaj, Chairman of the National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF) and the President of the Mas Transformation Secretariat. The Excellence in Services Award ceremony kicked off the weeklong series of events. The award ceremony seeks to honour outstanding individuals who exemplify the services sector through their innovation, quality, and leadership. Its goal is to also inspire more innovation, while recognizing leaders in the Services industries for their outstanding performance and contribution to the sector. These awards included Best Use of Innovation in Services, Best New Service, Service Provider of the Year, Young Service Provider of the Year, Service Association of the Year, and Service Exporter of the Year. The ceremony also highlighted the improvement and importance of the services sector to the national economy.

Feature speaker, Minister of Trade, Investment, Industry and Communications, Mr. Vasant Bharath, stated that the non-petroleum sector’s contribution to the T&T’s overall GDP was projected to increase by 60.9 percent by the end of 2014. The services sector’s contribution is estimated to be 51.8 percent. For the remainder of the week, the participants were treated to three days of informative and interactive sessions that left an impact on them. The second day, the TTCSI facilitated a workshop called SME Financing – Bridging the Gap. This workshop was timely, as access to ﬁnance is the most prevalent obstacle for many SMEs. Feature speaker, Minister of Finance and the Economy, Larry Howai, announced that a new $50 million funding facility will be available to small businesses seeking funding at the start of 2015. He highlighted the importance of encouraging entrepreneurship in Trinidad and Tobago, stating that “venture capital is a unique means of ﬁnancing that can assist us to not only bolster the work of our entrepreneurs, but to embrace innovation as an avenue for economic transformation.” Other speakers included Varun Maraj, CEO, Trinidad and Tobago Financial Centre; Jason Julien, General Manager, First Citizens Investment Services Ltd; Ashely Mitchell, Managing Director, Enterprise Hub; and Charles Maynard, CEO, Avantor Capital Limited. On the third day of this signature event, the TTCSI, in collaboration with the (TTGBC) Green Building Council, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources; and the United States Embassy, awarded secondary schools for participating in the “I AM Green Building Secondary School Competition.” This is the second year for this competition, which encouraged third and fourth form

students to create a project that would make their school compound more environmentally friendly. Students from over 50 schools were empowered to promote awareness of energy efficiency and a culture of research and critical thinking. The winner of this year’s competition was the Debe High School, where the students identiﬁed their problem as the continuous running of an electric pump that burns natural gas to supply oxygen to an aquaculture system on their school premises. In order to improve energy efficiency, the students suggested that the pump be fuelled by electricity generated from solar panels, and had a step-by-step plan of how this could be achieved on their compound.

• 2ND PLACE WINNER - Swaha Hindu College, Sangre Grande • 3RD PLACE WINNER - Tabaquite Secondary School • MOST ENTHUSIASTIC - Barrackpore Secondary • BEST DRAWING - Belmont Secondary • MOST ORIGINAL PRESENTATION - Hillview College

National Services Week could not have had a better closing day ceremony, as TTCSI partnered with The Project Management Institute Southern Caribbean Chapter (PMI SCC), to host a workshop on “The Value of Project Management: Sustainable Development.” PMI SCC, launched in Trinidad and Tobago ﬁfteen years ago, celebrated its 10th Annual International Project Management Day.

SEE YOU AT NSW 2015!

BUILDING BRIDGES

GTECH Ad

TTMA Ad

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

YO U N G S E R V I C E PR O V I D E R Written by Tori-Ann Haywood

It is always intriguing to hear the story of young successful entrepreneurs, who charted a pathway for their businesses. It speaks to the environment of our nation, which encourages free enterprise and facilitates businesses from an incubator stage to a functional, successful company. One of these young entrepreneurs is Sueann Ramsingh, Managing Director of Inspired Technologies, a consulting and technology services company. When I sat down with the Sueann Ramsingh, she offered us a snapshot of her inspiring journey to becoming a young entrepreneur. “A key piece of advice my mother gave me when I was younger is to be true to myself and continue to work towards my goals, despite challenges I may encounter,” says Ramsingh. “My parents taught me the value of hard work and showed me how to be a leader.” And, clearly, these lessons have paid off. After graduating with honours in her Computer Science major, Ramsingh acquired traditional employment, but always felt as though the world was bigger than what she experienced at the office. She knew her capabilities, followed her heart, and opened her consulting firm in 2011. In the early stages of the business, Inspired Technologies focused on the design and development of websites for personal and corporate users. Her business took off, and the volume of the business kept growing. She had the opportunity to work with clients locally, such as the Ministry of National Security, and internationally, in countries such as Jamaica, Grenada, Mexico and the United States.

When asked how her business grew so quickly, she says, “We give the client exactly what they want. We provide quality work, and we are highly flexible. We also record lessons learnt from each project. And that helps us, I think.” Ramsingh says her services include web development, document management systems, asset management systems, value-added Short Messaging Service (SMS), and services and technology training and development. “But as the business changed to a limited liability company, we will now have an increase in the number of services and solutions that the company offers.” These services include the design and implementation of corporate intranets, Document Management Systems, Unified Asset Management and Tracking (using RFID and GPS) and the provision of value-added SMS services on the networks of both local mobile network operators. As the face of her company, Ramsingh stands a chic and eloquent business owner who is not afraid of challenges, particularly since she stands tall in a market that is dominated by men. She does not allow that to affect her, as she intends to expand her regional footprint and partner with established providers for ICT solutions. Based on her track record and future plans, it is clear that Sueann Ramsingh loves her work and she has found her niche and its for this she copped the TTCSI’s 2014 Young Service Provider of the Year Award.

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

S ERVICE A SSOCIATION TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Written by Ryan De Souza

Operating for 136 years, the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TTCIC) has been the oldest and largest business service support organisation in Trinidad and Tobago. It is the foremost representative business support organization (BSO) that speaks on behalf of the private sector. As of September 2014, the TTCIC’s membership comprised of 645 businesses. The TTCIC managed to increase its membership by four percent in 2013 and six per cent in 2014. Its members continue to show confidence in the organization and continued willingness to partner with the Chamber on strategic initiatives. These growing figures are a reflection of TTCIC’s number one priority, which is member satisfaction. The BSO also seeks to create an environment for national development, and promote an open international trade and investment climate. It is led by a visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ms. Catherine Kumar, whose open door policy ensures the involvement of every staff member, as there exists a shared belief that a strengthened internal base will positively impact the TTCIC’s member relationship and engagement with other stakeholders. Kumar says the organisation’s strategic plan is also aimed at strengthening its member relationship and engagement. She adds that this is attained by the implementation of CEO visits with members; Member Focus Groups, “Meet Me at Five” Networking Events, New Members Welcome Receptions, and continuous member consultations on trade and business development issues. Kumar says that in an effort to better improve TTCIC’s services to its members in 2013, the BSO launched Phase One of its new online Chamber Master Customer Relationship Management system, giving members greater access to the TTCIC. It allows Members to login, develop a company profile, and access a searchable online Members Directory, among other things. 14

Regarding its thrust for national development, Kumar explains that there has been a strategic decision to focus on empowering the business community and, by extension, the entire country. As such, youth development plays a critical role in national development, and in this regard the TTCIC has it as a core area in its annual work plan. Ably supported and executed by the Nova Committee, the TTCIC’s JumpStart programme is held annually during the July/ August school vacation period. It is a structured support programme that provides financial literacy training, life skills enhancement, career guidance and apprenticeship placements in member organisations. In 2014, JumpStart completed its 17th year, with 87 secondary school students graduating from the programme. Further, as part of TTCIC’s commitment to Governance and Transparency and Small Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) Development, it hosted its 2nd Annual Business Opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago Programme (BizOppsTT) from November 17-18 2014. BizOppsTT is intended to provide an information-sharing avenue through which SMEs can unlock their potential. In addition to expounding on the business opportunities, the presentations demystified the pre-qualification requirements for companies wishing to register for future procurement opportunities. The TTCIC’s dedication and commitment to excellence is why TTCSI believes it, along with TUCO, deserves to be recognized as the 2014 Service Association of the Year. TTCSI is proud to call TTCIC our first member, and we believe that our relationship will prosper in 2015 and beyond.

CONGRATULATIONS TTCIC FOR RUNNING AWAY WITH THE TTCSI’S 2014 ASSOCIATION OF THE YEAR AWARD!

NSW 2014 WINNER’ S PROFILE

TTCSI’s

A SSOCIATION TRINBAGO UNIFIED

CALYPSONIANS ORGANISATION

Written by TTCSI

Some people may think of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organizations (TUCO), as a social group for “older calypsonians,” but many do not know that TUCO is core to the development of cultural sustainability for the country. Over the past decade in particular, TUCO became a leader in the entertainment industry, translating vast ideas into practical steps, simply illustrating that it deserved the TTCSI 2014 Association of the Year award. Initially, in 1998, TUCO was created as an organization primarily concerned with its members’ welfare, but when talented, committed members pooled their resources, TUCO emerged as a dynamic machine, claiming its space in the entertainment industry, both at home and abroad. Its members consist of more than 400 practicing artistes, including the seasoned the Mighty Sparrow, Contender, and Black Sage, as well as the young and talented Roderick “Chucky” Gordon. TUCO promotes proactive and efficient leadership in carving the path of cultural sustainability in Trinidad and Tobago. Led by the President Lutalo Masimba, aka Brother Resistance, the organization hosts several workshops and seminars to reflect its mission to sustain the Trinbagonian calypso culture. “Over the past few years, TUCO has been charting a new image for itself, as we seek to establish a corporate face,” said Masimba, on winning the award that shows they have done exactly that.

One of TUCO’s mandates is to host, produce and promote the National Calypso Monarch competitions, in partnership with the National Carnival Commission. During the Carnival season, TUCO also hosts the National Extempo Monarch and the National Junior Calypso Monarch. From July to August, TUCO presents the Junior Calypso Workshop Camp for children, ages 7-19. The main objective is to place the sight and sound of calypso in the next generation by encouraging them to write and compose sweet calypso music. “Yong people in particular are curious about the origins of calypso and its sustainability,” says Devon Seales, Assistant Public Relations Officer at TUCO. “You don’t usually hear about the origins of calypso, or how it started, so they are usually very intrigued when they hear about it,” Seales adds. Outside of Trinidad and Tobago’s annual Carnival celebrations, TUCO has left a remarkable impression on the international community that speaks for itself. TUCO has been involved in the promotion of the first ever World Carnival Competition held in Trinidad and Tobago at the National Stadium. TUCO also coordinated the first World Carnival Conference held in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, in 1998. Even though it was more than a decade ago, the ripple effects of the Conference still resonate today, as the Carnival spirit went

wide on the east coast of the USA. far and wid TUCO also produced the 2006 Carifesta TU Calypso Monarch event in Trinidad and Tobago. Carnival has always been a tourist attraction for the region, but in 2006 Carifesta created a signpost for all visitors of the region. However, Masimba says they are trying to strengthen and transform the organization internally by making it more vibrant and relevant by engaging in several initiatives, which include: + The enhancement of its Policy Document, which speaks to making every member IT Literate, the establishment of a Cultural Development Investment Board, a TUCO Women’s and Youth Arms, to name a few + A Communications Unit and a Monitoring and Evaluation Unit + In the field of education and training, TUCO has partnered with the Ministry of Community Development to engage in several initiatives to assist members in perfecting their craft Dubbing it the “new” TUCO, Masimba says the organization advocates for a paradigm shift in attitude on the part of its fellow artistes. “Only when that is achieved could Calypso Music take its rightful place as “World Music” indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago,” he states. 15

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

S ERVICE PR O V I D E R MASSY TECHNOLOGIES InfoCom (Trinidad) Ltd. Written by TTCSI

“We do not come to work, we come to serve!” This is the mantra of the employees of Massy Technologies InfoCom (Trinidad) Limited Project Management Services Unit, which they passionately apply on a daily basis to ensure that their customers are completely satisfied.

Their key services include: + Project and program management + Business implementation and support + Project management office consulting & implementation + Project management training

“We have strived towards excellence by being at the forefront of our profession, and we also believe in providing customers with an Edge (expert delivery and guided excellence),” boasts Owen Field, Regional Manager, Project Management Services, Massy Technologies InfoCom. He adds that the Unit’s philosophy to service excellence is encapsulated in the following quote: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.”- Aristotle.

Field further states that the unit has managed to transform itself from an internal focus, one service, and cost centre to a profit centre with four service lines, as well as an external and export focus entity that has been internationally recognized for best practices.

The nine-year-old unit, which copped the TTCSI’s 2014 Service Provider of the Year award, has expertise in projects across multiple industries, including Telecommunications and Information Technology, Financial Services, Government, Energy, Retail, Education and Utilities. Coupled with its corporate strength and competency, the Unit has the capability to provide services for their clients, which give them that complete assurance, Field explains.

Highlighting some of its main successes, Field says, his Unit was pivotal in assisting the Massy Group with several recent transformations locally and regionally. One such project was the simultaneous, region-wide re-branding of all Massy companies, which has significantly changed its landscape. Field says winning the TTCSI’s Service Provider of the Year award would demonstrate the Value of Project Management Services Excellence as indispensable for business results and value realization. “We would honour this with a sense of responsibility, and continue to set higher standards in excellence.”

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

INNOVATION Written by TTCSI

TriniTrolley.com is just five years old, and is already making its name in the e-commerce and online business in Trinidad and Tobago. The Couva-based company, which was established in 2009 with 50 employees, boasts of being the first online business to succeed in Trinidad. Since then, the company has grown significantly, with partnerships ranging from the Ministry of Works to MasterCard. TriniTrolley provides online shopping in Trinidad and the Caribbean, with a promise of 48-hour delivery for products and services. Mr Mazuree Ali, Chief Executive Officer of TriniTrolley.com, says the website has over 100,000 active customers and more than 500,000 unique visitors each month. There is no doubt TriniTrolley.com has hit the ground running. After one year, the company opened a seller account service for anyone wishing to sell online via the website. “Today, there are more than 5,000 sellers, such as RIK, Kiss Baking Company, A.S Bryden & Sons, Thomas & Sons, and small businesses that exist without brick and mortar stores.”

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION Ali says the website has attracted international conglomerates such as Pay Pal and MasterCard. In 2013, the United States Department of State recognised the Company and its CEO in its ‘A New Beginning Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation Program’, among 28 other delegates around the world. The program, which was announced as a special initiative by United States President Barack Obama at the April 2010 Summit on Entrepreneurship in Washington, aims to deepen ties between entrepreneurs in the Unites States and those from around the world. It also creates networking opportunities to share innovative entrepreneurial business strategies, as well as highlighting the variety of market niches served by successful entrepreneurs and innovators. Ali says the company continues to grow, with new local and international business opportunities, as they are able to compete globally, providing superior customer service. Ali is an active guest speaker and appeared at various fora in the services industry, namely Information Communication Technology (ICT) and serves as a mentor to entrepreneurs. For their innovation in driving service exports, TriniTrolley.com earned the TTCSI’s 2014 title- Best Use of Innovation.

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

E XPORTER DYKON

Developments

(Caribbean) Ltd.

Written by TTCSI

Success cannot be achieved without its fair share of challenges. This is no different for DYKON Developments, who copped d the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ (TTCSI) 2014 Exporter of the Year award. The 18-year-old company encountered several challenges before achieving some of its stated goals.

and environment, on that, but not at the and en envi viro vi ro onm nmen entt, aand en nd d gaining knowledge kno expense of cheapening our rate or service.”

Still battling a few, DYKON Developments was able to penetrate into regional and international markets, including: CARIFORUM, Canada; the United States; the Kingdom of Tonga; Fiji; Mauritius; and the United Kingdom.

According to him, the company also attributes its success to partnering with co-competitors, which assisted them in qualifying for bids. “We have spent years building relationship capital, both regionally and internationally, and this has also been on the basis of contributing voluntarily to National and Sectoral collaborative interests.”

DYKON Developments is a business development consultancy firm that provides a range of services locally, regionally and internationally. These services include intellectual capital management, trade facilitation and advice, project management, and business process outsourcing services. The company was established in 1996 and expanded its operations to have a commercial presence in Barbados in 2008 and Canada in 2012. Dav Kowlessar, DYKON’s Chief Executive Officer, says, “One of our major challenges in exporting has been the difference between a requirement to obtain a work permit and the understanding that we can travel and “work” in a foreign country on a contract (not for work) as a trade in service under mode four, known as the movement of natural persons, as defined by the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).” He adds, “On several occasions, one has to state they are going in to have a meeting, but there are no guarantees that you can obtain entry into a country to ply your trade, unlike goods being shipped into a country. We have also found that the cost of intra-regional air transport has not given us an advantage over our international competitors, so we have relied on our ICT platform to maintain contact with regional networks.” However, Kowlessar explains his strategy in overcoming some of these challenges. He says that DYKON employed various strategies to remain competitive, one of which was “to maintain our value proposition in terms of understanding the client’s culture 18

Kowlessar says the company has also managed to deliver against the scope and build its reputation. “We guard our reputation and put in or replace resources to meet the client’s requirements.”

DYKON’S EXPORT PROCESS Within the services industries, there are four modes of supply companies can use to export their services. Kowlessar says they used all four modes: • MODE ONE - Any company can export its services without leaving Trinidad and Tobago. For DYKON, they assisted Mauritius with a transformation plan of the economy via the Internet. • MODE TWO - Consumption abroad. In this instance, international clients came to Trinidad and Tobago to engage DYKON’s services. • MODE THREE - Represents commercial presence, and because of DYKON’s success, their operations were expanded to Barbados and Canada. • MODE FOUR - The movement of natural persons. DYKON’s staff visited other CARICOM and Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to provide their services.

As a result of DYKON Development’s ability to find creative ways to export their services and to successfully compete globally, they copped the TTCSI’s 2014 title - Service Exporter of the Year.

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

S ERVICE PR O V I D E R Jesse James Written by TTCSI

“Customer service represents the heart of a brand in the hearts of its customers.” - Kate Nasser The above philosophy is truly a reflection of the excellent service Mr. Jesse James provides to his customers. Since the inception of his Maxi Taxi business 17 years ago, James has prided himself on delivering a service that is second to none. It is for this reason that James is such a success, and why he copped the TTCSI’s 2014 Service Provider of the Year award.

However, understanding that nothing beats excellent customer service, James began to personalise his service by offering a wide range of products, from sightseeing tours to hiking, beach visits, cultural and sporting activities, shopping, visits to restaurants, and even to the doubles vendors, or any special event that may be happening in Trinidad at the time.

With his drive and passion to provide tourists with the ultimate “Trini” experience, he is now one of the most loved “go-to” guys for transport and tour services in Trinidad. Specifically catering to the yachting industry, James began providing transport services to cruisers in 2002, where he operated out of his minivan, using it as a one-stop shop.

Asked what some of his strategies in providing excellent customer service are, James says, “I listen to my customers’ needs, understand their budget and limitations, and then arrange special trips accordingly. From Carnival to turtle watching, to my own unique “Taste of Trinidad” (sampling food all over the island), I ensure that my customers are truly satisfied.”

James would not only transport cruisers to their destination, but also make regular weekly trips to the Port-of-Spain market and various groceries, where he successfully negotiated with supermarket owners to pay for the trips. His business then grew into a 24-hour airport shuttle service.

But it doesn’t stop there; James says he remembers his customers’ names, even years after, as well as those of their spouses and children, which his customers have grown so much to appreciate. James believes that giving his customers a true “Trini” experience will have them begging for more. And indeed, it has worked!

As he became more involved with the cruising community, James saw a real need to provide guidance and advice to cruisers, assisting them through some of the challenging processes upon arrival. Need to bring in a dog? No problem; James will arrange it! His pleasant personality, coupled with his willingness to go the extra mile, has endeared him to many visiting cruisers. His popularity led to him being honoured as the Port Officer of the Ocean Cruising Club, at the Cruising Station of the Southern Seas Cruising Association (SSCA), as well as receiving a gold medal for his service from the UK Ocean Cruising Club. James says he freely gives of his time to help maintain the daily cruisers’ radio net, and volunteers every year to visit Florida and extoll the attractions of Trinidad to the SSCA. James is dubbed by the Yachting industry as a “one-in-a-million”, and a true ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago!

NSW 2014 WINNER’S PROFILE

SERVICE A WARD Written by TTCSI

Making a difference in other people’s lives can inspire and assist them in realizing their full potential. This is true for Raj Ramdass, the Chief Executive Officer of RSC International Ltd, who is very passionate about creating educational platforms for the growth and development of citizens. Ramdass says, “I believe if the masses are given a self-motivated environment for learning, this would drive a thirst for success.” He also notes, “Through the innovative use of technology in education, our vision is to have high quality, internationally recognized training available for the masses.” RSC International Ltd is an educational training and software development company in Trinidad and Tobago, which is currently focused on improving education through the use of technology. RSC, which is also registered with the Ministry of Education, was established in 2012 from its 23-year old predecessor, Ramdass School of Computing. RSC’s journey to success began when it was selected in November 2012 by the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) to be a part of a trade mission to Colombia, called The Outsource2Lac Mission. RSC was chosen 20

based on its innovative technological model that would assist in solving some of the pertinent problems plaguing the local education system. Some of the issues they sought to address were: + Poor performance in numeracy by students at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level + Workforce development specific to numeracy and literacy + The digital divide RSC’s model was based on developing a number of specialized content teams and the production of an animated content curriculum specifically designed for the CSEC Mathematics syllabus. In May 2013, the model was tested in the lowest performing secondary school (Claxton Bay Secondary) in Victoria, Union. There was no turning back for RSC after this experience. The results of a four-week intervention led to a 300 plus per cent improvement in performance. One year later, in March 2014, the program took off, as it was introduced on a national scale with the Ministry of Education, resulting in the country having the highest pass rate in Mathematics in the history of CSEC exams. The pass rate jumped from 42 per cent in 2012 to 55

per cent in 2014. But RSC’s success didn’t stop there — a visually impaired student, Shamika Henry, gave her personal testimony about her grade one achievement in Mathematics by using the software created by RSC. Having a heart to see people succeed and believing they can make a difference when given the right tools, Ramdass said his company also created a digitized educational programme that has made a significant impact in “hot spot areas” such as St Barbs and Gonzales. RSC teamed up with the Inter Agency Task Force and Citizens Security Program to use the digitized programme in the various community centres and it has proven to be quite successful. “Digitized learning is being used to create change,” Ramdass says. Ramdass states that RSC is looking to spread its wings to other Caribbean countries, as these problems are not unique to Trinidad and Tobago, as well as to include other subject areas and to create adult programs. CONGRATULATIONS, RSC, AND A JOB WELL DONE!

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24hr airport shuttle service

MAXI TAXI SERVICE Welcome! once you dock you’re already a member! ‘MEMBERS ONLY’ Maxi Taxi Service offers a varety of personalized trips and services! Qualified tour operators, certified defensive drivers & first-aiders. We offer special Transportation deals & group rates to help you fully appreciate our beautiful island of Trinidad.

sight-seeing trips . shopping trips . cultural trips . overnight retreats . turtle watching . eco tours . beach limes . carnival trips . hardware trips . customized trips & services including all travel plans! Jesse James - Awarded Seven Seas Cruising Association Camaraderie Award 2001 for Compassionate Services on behalf of the Visiting Trinidad Sailing Community

Tropical Marine, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I. Tel. 633.3486 Jesse James. 683.5202 Sharon Rose James. 757.0139 Email. jessejamesmembersonly@yahoo.com www.membersonlymaxitaxi.com VHF Channel 68

SERV CES

Talk

TTCSI Services Talk is a 30 minutes dynamic, interactive and educational show, which is designed to create a greater awareness of the TTCSI and the Services Sector. It provides a platform for stakeholders to air their views with a solution -oriented focus that could lead to policy formulation. The dynamics between i95.5FM’s diverse and expansive listenership and TTCSI’s creative impulse will give you, our valued partner, the desired reach and impact on your target audience.

TTCSI’s 30-minute programme comprises: + A featured segment called “Face-off”, where stakeholders, business leaders, youth, policy makers and government officials have an opportunity to discuss issues plaguing the sector. + Tips for Tourism + Export tips - A 10-minute segment advising exporters /business community + Once a month TTCSI will shine the spotlight on a new entrepreneur

It’s all about putting, You, the Services Sector into the Spotlight! To book your advertising spot, contact Dixie-Ann Dickson @ 622-9229 ext 27 or ddickson@ttcsi.org

TTCSI would like to thank our generous 2014 sponsors

MASSY STORES

SME FINANCING: BRIDGING THE GAPS

SME E Financin Fi ancing: g:

Bridging the Gaps Written by TTCSI

he SME Financing – Bridging the Gaps workshop was held on the second day of NSW 14. This workshop was timely as it addressed the issues that most SMEs are facing, which is the difficulty in accessing finance. Feature speaker, Minister of Finance and the Economy, Senator the Honourable Larry Howai, announced that a new $50 million funding facility would have been available to small businesses at the start of 2015. He highlighted the importance of encouraging entrepreneurship in Trinidad and Tobago, stating that “venture capital is a unique means of financing that can assist us to not only bolster the work of our entrepreneurs, but to embrace innovation as an avenue for economic transformation.” Other speakers included Varun Maharaj, CEO Trinidad and Tobago Financial Centre; Jason Julien, General Manager First Citizen Investment Services Ltd., Ashely Mitchell, Managing Director Enterprise Hub and Charles Maynard, CEO Avantor Capital Limited.

The Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ (TTCSI) Chief Executive Oﬃcer Camille Sears-Carter Wells shakes the hand of Senator the Honourable Larry Howai, Minister of Finance and the Economy, before the start of the SME Financing: Bridging the Gaps workshop hosted by the TTCSI during National Services Week 2014.

Minister of Finance and the Economy, Senator the Honourable Larry Howai delivers an address during the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ SME Financing: Bridging the Gaps workshop at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

Charles Maynard, CEO Avantor Capital Limited presents on the value of using venture capital as an alternative to accessing ﬁnance and seated are Immediate Past President of Trinidad and Tobago Green Building Council, Roger Salloum; Varun Maharaj, CEO of the International Financial Centre and Senator the Honourable Larry Howai, Minister of Finance and the Economy at the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ SME Financing: Bridging the Gaps workshop at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

Jason Julien, General Manager First Citizens Investment Services Ltd speaks at the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries’ SME Financing: Bridging the Gaps workshop held at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

I AM SECONDARY SCHOOL CHALLENGE

I AM Secondary School

Green

building competition Written by TTCSI

The Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries, in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Green Building Council (TTGBC), Ministry of Environment and Water Resources and the United States Embassy, awarded secondary schools for participating in the “I AM Green Building Secondary School Competition.”

• • • • •

2nd Place winner - Swaha Hindu College, Sangre Grande 3rd Place winner - Tabaquite Secondary School Most Enthusiastic - Barrackpore Secondary Best Drawing - Belmont Secondary Most Original Presentation - Hillview College

This is the second year for the “I AM” Competition, which encouraged third and fourth form students to create a project that would make their school compound more environmentally friendly. Students from more than 50 schools were challenged to incorporate green building principles, demonstrate effective use of energy efficiency, as well as create a culture of research and critical thinking. The winner of this year’s competition was the Debe High School, where the students identified their problem as the continuous running of an electric pump, which burns natural gas to supply oxygen to an aquaculture system on their school premises. In order to improve energy efficiency, the students showed a step-by-step plan of a pump being powered by the use of solar panels. The students were applauded for their innovation. The Minister in the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Ms Ramona Ramdial, delivered the feature address.

Sasha Chaitram, Marketing Oﬃcer of SBCS, presents Tabaquite Secondary School with the 3rd prize.

Hillveiw College copped the Most Original Presentation.

Honourable Minister Ramona Ramdial, Minister of State in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, presents the ﬁrst prize to Debe High School at TTCSI's I AM Secondary School Green Building Competition, which took place during TTCSI's National Services Week 2014 at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain. Belmont Secondary steal the prize for the Best Drawing, which was presented by Cynthia Gloria Hayes, TTCSI Board Member/ immediate Past President of Project Management Institute Southern Caribbean Chapter.

The United States Embassy's Public Aﬀairs Oﬃcer, Stephen Weeks presents IPADS to the 2nd place winners.

Barrackpore West Secondary School took the prize for the Most Enthusiastic, which was presented by Honourable Minister Ramona Ramdial, Minister of State in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

THE VALUE OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

THE VALUE OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT:

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Written by TTCSI

ational Services Week 2014 could not have had a better closing day ceremony as the TTCSI partnered with The Project Management Institute Southern Caribbean Chapter (PMI SCC), to host a workshop on “The Value of Project Management: Sustainable Development” on November 6 at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain. The theme of the workshop was “Achieving a Sustained Competitive Advantage through Project Management.”

While delivering her address, the TTCSI’s Chief Executive Officer Camille Sears-Carter Wells stated that while there is a growing recognition by executives to employ project management principles, there is a greater need for all to see the value of project management and apply it. She further noted that applying such principles can affect the bottom line of any company, as well as help them achieve that competitive edge.

Joe Brown, Chief Executive Oﬃcer of Jaﬀa Restaurant, delivers his presentation during The Value of Project Management: Sustainable Development Workshop at the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries' National Services Weeks 2014 at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

One of the participants raises a point at the Value of Project Management: Sustainable Development Workshop on November 6, the last day of TTCSI's National Services Week 2014 at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

Other speakers included H. Harnarine Maharaj, PMI SCC’s President. Narayan Ramtahal, Programme Manager, Vice President Sponsorship, PMISCC, who spoke on the topic “The Role of Corporate Governance in Sustainable Success in Project Management.” Also speaking was Owen Field, Director, Massy Group of Companies, who delivered a presentation on “Building Bridges to Project Management Excellence - Achieving Real Value.” The workshop ended in a very lively and interactive panel discussion, moderated by Cynthia Gloria Hayes, Immediate Past President of PMISCC and Board Member of TTCSI. Sharing their expertise were H. Harnarine Maharaj; Joe Brown, CEO, Jaffa at the Oval, and Hans Erich Schultz, Project Manager United Nations Development Programme.

H. Harnarine Maharaj, PMISCC's President; Joe Brown, Chief Executive Oﬃcer Jaﬀa Restaurant at the Oval and Hans Erich Schultz, Project Manager, United Nations Development Programme share their expertise.

Participants have their eyes ﬁxed on the panelists.

One participant is all smiles as she listens to the presentations.

SERVICES GO GLOBAL

SERVICES GO GLOBAL The World is Yours! Written by Ryan De Souza

There is a common misconception that exporting is the exclusive domain of large firms. Even the smallest services firm has export potential. Whether you are operating in the creative, ICT, or even the health and wellness sector, the advent of globalization and technology has made it possible for operators across all services sectors to export their services. It is my pleasure to introduce to you, dear reader, SERVICES Go Global, an initiative of the Caribbean Network of Service Coalitions (CNSC). It is best described as an instrumental tool for service firms to enhance their international competitiveness and achieve success in the international marketplace. You may have first heard of this programme at the Export-Import Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (Eximbank) and TTCSI’s “Promoting Services Globally” breakfast seminar. Further mention of this was made at our TTCSI SERVICES Go Global launch in January 2015. SERVICES Go Global is the only export readiness training programme for service exporters and would-be exporters in the world. The programme follows a logical, sequenced approach to exporting - a Roadmap - that takes the exporters through four stages and twelve modules of export preparation. With the completion of each module, elements of the service provider’s export plan are developed.

Service providers who undertake the course will come away having completed the essential elements of their export plan and will have gained the valuable skills necessary to successfully engage in the international marketplace. At the Coalition, we pride ourselves in our duty to represent not solely the services sector, but the operators within it to encourage you to widen your lens and to answer these questions: Where are the opportunities? What markets should we target? Is exporting right for my business? SERVICES Go Global officially launches in the first quarter of 2015, and will be based upon a sector-specific approach with training being delivered on a quarterly basis up to and including our signature eventNational Services Week (NSW) 2015. The TTCSI is delighted to announce its participation in this programme and in September 2014, sent three representatives to Barbados, to a train-the-trainers workshop. The programme was developed and delivered by Global Links Network, a team of certified international trade professionals who have delivered services training in over 50 countries worldwide over the past 20 years.

TTCSI is dedicating 2015 to the further growth and development of the services sector by strengthening its member base. Strong service providers positively result in increased competitiveness, exports, and foreign exchange - indicators of growth for any economy. With the current spiraling downward trend in oil prices, SERVICES Go Global is a timely reminder of the value of diversification and what it means for our country. Keep your eyes and ears tuned in to all things TTCSI; you do not want to miss this chance. Not only does SERVICES Go Global provide an opportunity to effectively harness the export potential of your organization, but it is certainly a tried and true way to achieve your dreams for sustainable growth in your business. There is an entire global market out there for you, the discerning businessperson to capitalize upon.

THE WORLD IS YOURS! 25

FRAUD

the

FRAUD culture

Written by Jerome Chambers

WHAT IS FRAUD? In the broadest sense, fraud can encompass any crime for gain that uses deception as its principal modus operandi. Fraud is defined by Black’s Law Dictionary as, ‘a knowing misrepresentation of the truth or concealment of a material fact to induce another to act to his or her detriment’. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), fraud includes: 1. Corruption (such as conflicts of interest and bribery)

2. Asset misappropriation (through theft or illegal diversions of cash or other assets) 3. Financial statement fraud (such as asset/revenue overstatement or understatement) In its 2014 survey, the ACFE estimated that the typical organization loses five percent of its revenue every year to fraud, with an average cost per incident of US$145,000 dollars among all cases reported. The total global loss in 2013 approached US$3.7 trillion dollars.

OCCUPATIONAL FRAUD Internal fraud, also known as occupational fraud, can be defined as, the use of one’s occupation for personal enrichment through the deliberate misuse or misapplication of the organization’s resources or assets. This type of fraud is relatively common and occurs when an employee, manager, or executive commits fraud against his or her employer. A FRAUD CULTURE The culture that exists within your business includes those values and behaviours that contribute to the unique social and psychological environment of your organization. It is often expressed in the business’ inner workings, interactions with the outside world, as well as the unwritten rules that have been developed over time and are considered valid. What does a business’ culture have to do with fraud, you may well ask- Everything! It is people who commit fraud. People are social animals - their actions, to a large extent, are governed by the culture and environment in which they find themselves as a consequence. Let’s consider the German engineering giant Siemens, who in 2008 agreed to pay a

record fine of US $1.6 billion dollars to settle bribery allegations made by the United States and European authorities. The company was charged with allegedly paying out more than a billion dollars in bribes to win contracts around the world. "Employees obtained large amounts of cash from Siemens cash desks. Employees sometimes carried that cash in suitcases across international borders to pay bribes," Linda Thomsen, SEC director of enforcement said. “Payment authorizations were recorded on “Post-it” notes that were later removed to avoid leaving any permanent record.” Joseph Persichini, head of the FBI field office in Washington, D.C., said, “Their actions were not an anomaly. These were standard operating procedures for corporate executives who viewed bribery as a business strategy.” LEAD BY EXAMPLE In an environment such as Siemens the possible reaction of an employee may be “everyone else is doing it so why not?” This has been a common reaction from many who have been caught. Management is responsible for setting the tone for behaviour and ethics in an organisation, and managers are the role models. If these role models fail to show good judgment and ethics, then the

employees have no direction to follow, or should we say, no proper direction to follow. Closer to home, official statistics for fraud (Table 1) show an interesting trend particularly from 2011 onwards. If we were to take a liberal view of Pareto’s principle, we may even surmise that there are many more occurrences of fraud than are actually reported. TABLE 1 FRAUD OFFENSES, T & T YEAR 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 January – July

FRAUD OFFENSES 158 cases reported 152 cases reported 219 cases reported 307 cases reported 84 cases reported

Source: Trinidad and Tobago Police Service WHAT CAN YOUR BUSINESS DO? Create an organisational culture where: 1. There is a zero tolerance for fraud 2. Dishonest people are clear in the knowledge that honest persons will not tolerate their potential deceit 3. Have your company take a Fraud Check-Up REMEMBER AS LONG AS THERE WERE OPPORTUNITIES, THERE WERE FRAUDSTERS!

WORLD SAILING…SECOND TRINI WOMAN TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD

World Sailing… second Trini wo oman to sail aroun nd the world Written by Vidya Jeremiah Petterson

WORLD SAILING…SECOND TRINI WOMAN TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD

There is a unique freedom that envelopes you, your boat, the wind, sea, waves, dolphins and whales.

your boat, remind you that with joy also

Islands, Tonga and Fiji, where we spent

comes danger.

the cyclone season.

The sight of land is marked with a big

In April 2006 we left Fiji and sailed to New

smile and anticipation after a long passage.

Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia,

You hop on land and find yourself still

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and India.

swaying from the movement of the boat,

In 2007, we sailed the Red Sea via Yemen,

as you make your way to clear Customs

Sudan, through the Suez Canal in Egypt,

and Immigration, the first representatives

and exited in the Mediterranean Sea,

of the land when you are visiting. Then

visiting Greece, Italy, Sicily, Sardinia and

you are free to explore and enjoy.

then France through the European Canals,

Sailing? There is so much to tell.

It was while working at Coral Cove

spent five years sailing in Denmark and

including Luxemburg and Denmark. We Marina Hotel Ltd in 1999 that I met

Sweden. Then, in 2012, we departed from

Sailing is not only about cruising, but also

Kenneth Petterson of the homemade

those two countries and sailed to the

about navigating, knowing about currents,

Swedish S/Y “El Cordero”. After Kenneth

European Canals and Spain from the

tides, hurricanes or cyclone seasons, and

crossed the Atlantic Ocean six times from

Mediterranean Sea, where we spent the

the right time for starting a passage.

1998 to 2002, I flew to Sweden in May

winter. From there we sailed to Melilla, a

Weather is also crucial in planning a trip,

2003, where we were married, and our

Spanish town in North Africa, then

and there are many ways of getting

adventures began.

Gibraltar, Canary Islands, Cape Verde and

weather information while sailing, such as

back on home ground to Chaguaramas,

weather faxes, GRIB (weather data) files

We left Sweden and travelled via the

via the SSB (Single-Side Band) radio

European Canals to Germany, Holland,

which

use,

and

having

Trinidad, on December 11, 2013.

daily

Belgium and France, then went into the

The ocean and its elements should not be

communication with friends, who give us

Mediterranean Sea, to Spain, the Balearic

underestimated.

weather reports from Panama, Sweden

Islands, Gibraltar, Canary Islands, Cape

common sense should always prevail.

and Denmark.

Verde, St Lucia, St Vincent and the

Sailing in the Caribbean or around the

Grenadines, Grenada and sweet T&T.

world like the first Trinidad and Tobago

There is a unique freedom that envelopes

Proper

respect

and

couple that did it, Harold and Kwailan La

you, your boat, the wind, sea, waves,

We sailed to Martinique, Dominica, Iles

Borde, is something I would highly

dolphins and whales. The morning sunrise

des Saints, and then back to Trinidad and

recommend. The sailing community is

and evening sunset experienced from the

Tobago, where we spent the hurricane

huge and the people who live this lifestyle

privacy of your cockpit and the beautiful

season. In November 2004, we sailed to

are unique.

night sky, lit up with shining stars, are

the Venezuelan islands of

majestic sights that entertain you as you

Blanquilla, Los Roques, then Bonaire,

Sailing, though, is not for everyone, so if

pass your watch. The joy of seeing

Curacao, Colombia, and the San Blas

you decide this is something for you, start

acrobatic dolphins dance and perform for

Islands of Panama. We transited the

planning, learn to sail and navigate, and

your sole pleasure, and enormous, curious

Panama Canal in April 2005, sailed to

soon you, too, will have the privilege of

whales diving less than five meters under

Galapagos,

being called a sailor.

French

Testigos,

Polynesia,

Cook

ICT DEVELOPMENT IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Building a Strong

Telecommunications and Broadcasting Backbone to Facilitating ICT Development Written by Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago

in Trinidad and Tobago

Over the last decade, there has been increased use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for accessing information that has driven economic development world over.

legislative framework to aid development; effective management of the Country’s spectrum resources; and the provision of consistent and reliable market data to aid decision-making amongst others.

Access to information that drives economic development requires a strong telecommunications backbone upon which to transmit data.

Looking ahead over the next five (5) years, TATT will focus on three key areas – sector transformation, consumer advocacy and building organisational capacity to support the new era of dynamic and rapidly changing technology.

In 2004, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago set up the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) to ensure the liberalization and expansion of the local telecommunications and broadcasting industry. TATT has therefore focused on building that strong backbone for ICT Development Trinidad and Tobago. TATT’s mandate included the development of an open market for telecommunications services; the orderly development of the sector; promoting universal access to telecommunications services for all persons in Trinidad and Tobago and protecting the interests of the public amongst others. Today, the high level of use of telecommunication technologies and services in this country has significantly contributed to the development of the country’s key economic sectors such as energy, manufacturing, finance, telecommunications, education, health and the environment. Parallel with this is the strengthening of social platforms through the use of the technologies in areas such as entertainment, communications and socialization. Among the factors contributing to this relatively high usage were TATT initiatives aimed at the development of the country’s telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. Some of TATT’s key achievements include expansion of the market; deepening competition; the development of a relevant legal and

SECTOR TRANSFORMATION – The aim is to develop a market that is ready for transition to a fully digital platform. Projects high on the agenda include amongst others: - the development of a local Internet Exchange Point or IXP for the routing of local Internet traffic within Trinidad and Tobago. This is expected to speed up private and public sector online communication and create an environment for local content creation and application development. - Digital Terrestrial Television that will bring high definition digital television to all viewers. - Number Portability that will allow persons and organisations to chang their providers without changing their numbers. - Increased access to basic telecommunications and broadcasting services by every member of thepublic - Enhanced data services with the potential for the introduction of a third mobile operator - Increased consumer focus with the implementation of Consumer Quality of Service Regulations. TATT also looks forward to the implementation of Enhanced Data Services as providers implement improved Technologies over the 700 MHz spectrum band facilitating cheaper and wider access by customers to digital services.

CONSUMER ADVOCACY – TATT has held consultations with civil society groups to guide the development of a consumer advocacy framework to develop more informed consumers. Such consumers will be better able to protect themselves in the dynamic and rapidly changing technology market through wise choices. The organisation is also working towards the implementation of a new package of Consumer Quality of Service Regulations. Once passed in Parliament these regulations will offer improved quality of service and enhanced protection to consumers and greater enforcement strength to TATT. ORGANISATIONAL STRENGTHENING – TATT recognises the dynamic and seismic changes taking place within the sector as a result of rapidly changing technology and international agreements like the European Partnership Agreement (EPA). The organisation has therefore begun working on significant changes to the Telecommunications Act and its Subsidiary Regulations to bring them in line with these agreements and make the organisation better poised for the rapidly changing telecoms future. Included in this, is the revised consumer quality standards regulations which when passed in Parliament will bring significant protection to consumers and bring stronger compliance and regulatory enforcement capabilities to TATT. Organisational strengthening will also include building of human capacity; developing innovative resource management strategies; promoting forward looking economic regulation; enabling broadcasting sector transformation; facilitating new investment; strengthening the legal and regulatory framework and implementing of universal service.

MAS GONE GREEN

Carnival Gateway Hub 3

I M-opens the world to

"Mas Gone Green" Written by TTCSI

The Carnival industry, in particular its masquerade component, represents a significant proportion of the creative industry capacity of T&T. It is highly labour intensive and directly fuelled by the creativity, ingenuity, and rich culture and history of our people. To preserve this heritage and generate greater levels of revenue, it is imperative that the industry be able to adapt and become more competitive, self-sustaining and attractive to future generations. MAS GONE GREEN The National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF), through the Mas Transformation Secretariat, has boldly stepped forward to develop and implement a project called “Mas Gone Green”, in order to begin connecting our Mas with the growing and lucrative market for environmentally friendly products and services. The idea that our Mas can be designed, built and portrayed in an environmentally friendly manner is one that the Secretariat is keen to tout to all of Trinidad and Tobago and, by extension, the rest of the world. The concept of being “Green” has been applied to many things, and some people even dare to leverage this catch phrase for the sake of making a few extra dollars. However, for those who hold a genuine interest in protecting Mother Earth, allow us to engage you on applying this “Green” concept to Trinidad and Tobago’s Masquerade. This country will get its first official taste of Mas Costumes made from environmentally friendly/green materials on May 27, at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya. This will also coincide with the launch and the unveiling of the “Carnival Gateway Web Portal”, in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of 32

Services Industries (TTCSI), National Carnival Development Foundation and the Inter American Development Bank.

medium enterprises, as undertaken in the project, will increase professionalism, dynamism and innovation in the industry.

This two-fold event will see the Mas Transformation Secretariat’s exhibition of 12 prototypes of “Green” costumes, inclusive of the Carnival King and Queen, Individual, Frontline, Backline, Kiddie and J’ouvert sections. Meanwhile, the Carnival Gateway Web Portal, an innovative one-stop hub, is designed to promote economic growth for micro, small and medium-sized businesses in the masquerade sector. This hub will serve as a gateway for the world to access the services and products of stakeholders and service providers. “Mas Gone Green” will be the first initiative to showcase and use the Carnival Gateway Hub.

As such, the Carnival Gateway Hub will not only assist in transforming the masquerade industry into a sustainable business, but also promote Trinidad and Tobago globally as a prime tourism product for Mas, festivals and heritage.

CARNIVAL GATEWAY HUB - I3M PROJECT For too long, our Carnival product, while meeting the needs of nationals most of the time, has proven difficult to market, and while there have been sporadic successes by individual bandleaders at the various Diaspora Carnivals, the full potential of this gigantic festival still remains untapped. Development of the industry’s human and technological infrastructure, as well as the increased capacity building of micro, small and

The TTCSI believes that connectivity generated by the introduction of the Carnival Gateway Hub will allow for a greater degree of cohesiveness and organisation among the fragmented actors in the industry. It will serve as a platform to provide substantial business support and services to improve productivity and efficiency levels through specific online functionalities that will, for example, reduce raw materials costs; increase the research capabilities for design; market the products and services nationally, regionally and internationally; and support vertical and horizontal integration within the sector, while infusing innovation in their business practices. These two initiatives seek to enhance the sustainability and the global competitiveness of the masquerade sector.

From Start-Up to Sustainability

CREATING NEW KNOWLEDGE

A significant responsibility of TLIs is the training of competent professionals to manage the private and public sectors, as well as individuals with technical skills who provide a myriad of related services. TLIs also ensure that professionals remain current in their field by providing professional and continuing education. Both the private and public sector rely on them increasingly to design programmes that meet internal training and capacity building needs.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TERTIARY

EDUCATION TO ECONOMIC

Knowledge transfer is a significant responsibility, since the knowledge that TLIs create, refine or transfer provides significant feedstock that spurs competitiveness. This is particularly valuable in the services sector, where the changing demands of the marketplace and the ability to respond rapidly and appropriately are critical for success. Moreover, the tertiary education sector has an important role in economic development through the export of its services, particularly the results of its research and technical expertise, and by attracting overseas students whose impact on the economy is marked.

DEVELOPMENT

Written by Dr David Rampersad

ertiary education, which includes higher, technical and vocational education, is a major driver of human capital development to meet the needs of an economy increasingly dependent on technology and to ensure competitiveness. If the tertiary education sector is to respond successfully to these imperatives, a rational policy infrastructure, funding for research and development, opportunities for a wide range of students, and sound data on which to base strategies and policies are required. Quality assurance systems ensure high quality learning outcomes and satisfy the expectations of the public, including employers. Those responsible for formulating tertiary education and training programmes must be cognisant of current and anticipated national priorities and economic needs to enable them to craft policy with impact.

By encouraging critical thinking, research and analysis, tertiary level institutions (TLIs) drive productivity, innovation, invention, creativity and entrepreneurship. As major users of information and communications technology, they help create a workforce that can apply its knowledge and skills to a working environment reliant on technology. They

facilitate

access

up-to-date

information, links to other centres of information and learning, participation in debates on matters of relevance to a variety of professional and technical areas, as well as research, and the dissemination of new information and research results that are of value to the business sector. Moreover, their libraries and specialised collections are normally the most important repositories

information

documentation in the Caribbean.

and

The wider impact of tertiary education is frequently underestimated. The training of professionals who earn good salaries, the enhancement of skills that spur innovation and entrepreneurship, and the strengthening of an entrepreneurial class help create wealth, greater opportunities for economic growth, and an increase in the national tax base that facilitates greater expenditure on national programmes. An important by-product of tertiary education is the inculcation of attitudes and values of social responsibility that strengthen civil society and help create a liberal, democratic society. In summary, a relevant well-organised system of tertiary education, based on the highest standards of excellence and providing access to all groups, especially those that have not traditionally had such access, is a sine qua non for comprehensive development and competitiveness across the entire society.

LEED EXAMS

green design, construction, operation and maintenance practices impacting real projects on the ground.

GROWING OUR RANKS;

LEED EXAMS

COME TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Written by TTGBC

he Trinidad and Tobago Green Building Council (TTGBC) achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards making sustainable building design and construction more commonplace in Trinidad and Tobago, when it hosted the LEEDÂŽ Green Associate Exams, a paper-based exam here in May 2014. Trinidad and Tobago became only the second country (after Panama) to be afforded this privilege by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Founded in 2010, the TTGBC is a member-driven organization and the leading advocate of sustainable design in Trinidad & Tobago. Its mission is to transform the way T&T's buildings and communities are designed and built, operated and maintained, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life. TTGBC is dedicated to the fostering of Green Building Practices in Trinidad and Tobago.

In 2013, TTGBC identified professional development as a cornerstone strategy for national transformation and driving the creation of the green building economy in Trinidad and Tobago. The thinking was simple - more credentialed green building professionals locally meant more advocates for sustainable buildings, more conversations about energy and water efficiency, and more experts in

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification program developed by the USGBC. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the most widely recognized programs of its kind with over 3.3 billion square feet of LEED-certified building space in over 135 countries around the world. USGBC (United States Green Building Council) created a series of professional credentials to support this activity. A LEED professional credential signifies a leader in the field and an active participant in the green building movement. TTGBC began to offer preparation training for the LEED Green Associate exam. However, it soon became obvious that while persons were interested in taking the exam, the high cost of airfare, room and board to travel overseas to sit the exam was prohibitive. In July 2013, TTGBC began discussions with members of USGBC regarding the possibility of bringing the LEED professional credential exams to Trinidad. The USGBC was interested, but cautious and maintaining the security and integrity of the exam was of paramount concern. In September 2013, a team from TTGBC travelled to Green Building in Philadelphia, where they met with Jennivine Kwan, Vice President, International Operations at USGBC, to discuss the matter. At the end of the meeting USGBC agreed to allow TTGBC to host the exam in Trinidad. The first LEED Green Associate paper-based exams were held on 17th May 2014, at The Teaching and Learning Complex, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. The exam was fully subscribed and the results recorded an 80 per cent pass rate. Through this initiative, TTGBC effectively doubled the number of green building professionals in Trinidad and Tobago with 18 persons earning their LEED Green Associate credentials. As climate change, global warming and dependence of fossil fuels grab the headlines, TTGBC will continue to do its part in changing the way buildings are designed, constructed, operated and maintained. Plans are already in place to host another LEED Green Associate exam in January 2015 and the possibility of hosting LEED AP exams later in the year is currently being explored.

HRMATT CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

M AT T

VERS

The Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad & Tobago

Carving a way

for Human Resource

Practitioners Written by HRMATT

ver the last 25 years, the Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad and Tobago (HRMATT) has laid a strong foundation that has led to the widespread recognition of the profession and the broadening of the skills of Human Resource practitioners in Trinidad and Tobago. Fewer than 10 years after its formation in 1989, in the position of HR Manager found root in almost every public sector and state-run organisation’s chart. The proliferation of HR Managers in the public service is now viewed as an essential component of the public service reform process. The profession has grown in both academia and business; with mid-size to large companies now enjoying the fruits of having an HR Practitioner as a business partner. HRMATT, as an association, has also enjoyed many successes, and to date can boast of still having a fully functional Secretariat and hosting twenty-four successful Annual General Meetings. We have always had a smooth and democratic election of Board Members and transition of Boards.

as Dr. Jack Fitz-Enz, Alvin Day, and Professor Dave Ulrich…just to name a few. HRMATT has a membership of over 1,200 HRM practitioners in Trinidad and Tobago. We live our motto, “Promoting National Development Through People”, and we continue in this vein by taking a leading role in facilitating change and transformation in organisations through our membership. HRMATT will be hosting its 10th Biennial Conference of HR Practitioners on June 11th – 12th at the Trinidad Hilton & Conference Centre, where we will host Professor Robert S. Kaplan, co-developer of both activity-based costing and the Balanced Scorecard. He has authored or co-authored 14 books and more than 150 papers, including 23 in the Harvard Business Review. HRMATT continues to be the leading voice of Organisation Development in Trinidad and Tobago, and it is our commitment to see organisations thrive.

We have held nine world-class Human Resource Conferences in Trinidad and Tobago, featuring keynote international and regional speakers such

THRTA GALA AWARDS

Trinidad Hotels Restaurants and Tourism Association

Tourism

Awards 2014 The Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association (THRTA) is the main private sector representative body for the tourism industry, performing a pivotal role between the policy makers (Ministry of Tourism), policy implementers (Tourism Development Company) and the private sector. Members of the Association comprise hotels, restaurants and companies that provide goods and services to the industry.

The THRTA embarks on a number of bold initiatives aimed at raising the awareness of the tourism sector as a viable option for economic diversification. The tourism industry is labour intensive and can employ large numbers of persons with a varying degree of skills sets. Tourism has been heralded the world over as the leading option for sustainable development since by its nature it does not consume a nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources. It is with this in mind the THRTA has had the inaugural tourism awards. The THRTA believes that Service Excellence is the tourism and hospitality industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest asset. Outstanding service is a key determining factor for visitors when decisions are made to extend their stay, tell their friends, post comments on the various social networking sites and repeat visits. Additionally locals feel a sense of pride, portraying the attitude that there is no better place to live. It is no coincidence that we have chosen to pay tribute to those who have contributed to the development of tourism during World Tourism Week 2014. The THRTA has hosted for the first time this year the Gala Awards Dinner and Dance to recognise and honour our members who have been Outstanding Performers in the Hospitality and Tourism Sector. This event has helped to lift the tourism industry into the forefront as a sustainable and viable option for diversification of our local economy.

THRTA GALA AWARDS

THRTA GALA TOURISM AWARDEES 2014 Business Excellence Award Tourism Supporting Services

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This award went to Mac Farlane’s Design Studio. The company provided the most innovative and significant support to the Tourism sector such as, Information Technology, design, wholesale, and distributor services. Brian Mac Farlane’s approach to life and the environment has been translated into artistic masterpieces and Carnival pageantry for three decades. He is renowned throughout Trinidad and Tobago, the wider Caribbean, and the world. He was the designer for Tourism Park, Taste T&T and has worked with many hotels in Trinidad and Tobago for special events and seasonal décor.

hotel, with two (2) restaurants and 94 rooms. Facing industry competition from big brands and a multitude of boutique hotels, high standards have been maintained, and the hotel’s full staff complement has never been reduced. Long 12 -hour days, long years, have been balanced by her passion for food, travel and family!

Outstanding Industry Employee Award The outstanding employee is the one who gives his/her heart to the job whether a mundane task or a request for something unconventional and is resourceful at all times. Pauline Felix James works at the Courtyard by Marriott and has consistently demonstrated a passion for exceptional service and a commitment to exceeding the hotel’s goals. She can be described as a service ambassador. Every week, Pauline monitors the team’s Guest Satisfaction Scores. When scores are down, she acts as cheerleader for the team, encouraging them to deliver better service; to not just meet the needs of guests, but to go above and beyond. When the scores are up, she showers praises on her team members.

Business Excellence Award – Direct Tourism ServicesNature Seekers’-Dennis Sammy This award went to the company providing direct tourism services, for example, restaurants, tourist attractions, tour operators, airlines and travel agents. Creating unforgettable experiences for others is not just a skill, it is an art form. The recipient of this award understands the art and science of tourism and has been enterprising and bold in their contributions. Nature Seekers was formed in 1990 with a view to conserving the vulnerable Leatherback Turtle on the beaches of Matura. After initial opposition poachers were transformed into conservationists. The programme now includes guided tours and adventure walks, reforestation initiatives, craft and jewelry creations, soft adventure and sport tourism activities through kayaking along the Salybia River. Nature Seekers has a keen interest in moulding our nation’s next generation by encouraging the concept of sustainability.

Lifetime Achievement Award

This award went to William Aguiton, who has been active in the tourism industry and who has shown tremendous dedicated professionalism and commitment to the THRTA and the development of tourism. William Aguiton epitomises the spirit of hospitality. With professionalism and passion, he has been instrumental in catapulting the hotel industry forward as evidenced by the numerous awards received in the past, including the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 50th Anniversary Gold Medal for his contribution to the development of Tourism in the Caribbean.

Hotelier of the Year Award This award goes to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to the pursuit of excellence. Today, the demand for luxurious facilities with the highest level of personalized services concomitantly demands the hotelier’s commitment and execution of core competencies. The award went to Diana Cohen Chan – Kapok Hotel, which was founded by the awardee’s parents with 35 rooms in 1970 and has evolved into a modern interntional

Trinidad Hotels Restaurants and Tourism Association

c/o Trinidad & Tobago Hospitality & Tourism Institute, Airway Road, Chaguaramas. P.O. Box 243, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. Tel: (868) 634-1174/5 Fax: (868) 634-1176 Email: info@tnthotels.com Website: www.tnthotels.com

CARIBBEAN HOTEL & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

A WOMAN’S HEALTH… A VITAL NEED TO EXAMINE

Women’s Health

A Vital Need to Examine! Written by Nicole Joseph-Chin

The topic of breast health and breast care is of primary importance to women in the region, especially as it entails our ability to access many forms of breast examinations.

Our first point of reference will always be our self-examination, which can be done in the privacy of our homes, for example; in our shower on a frequent basis. This exam can bring us in close connection with our own anatomy, and allow us to understand when we sense anything that is not “normal” by our standards of normalcy. The next options are electronic/sonar graphic and clinical examinations, which can range from an ultrasound to an MRI, all within easy access, and with low to zero levels of discomfort.

Women are choosing less painful options, and once we can all agree that we ought to be vigilant and be aware of our breast health, the choices are open to each woman based on her doctor’s recommendations and her situational needs.

Breasts represent the definition of gender in our population, and whilst taboo in some cultures, they are celebrated in many others, albeit sometimes to the extent of over-exposure in the true sense. But one thing remains very true: if we were to remove the breasts from every woman in the planet, there would be an immediate shortage of supply of sustenance for the new-born child, (except in cases where mother -to-child infections or situations prevail), especially in cases where children have a sensitivity to formula.

BREAST HEALTH In order to feel one’s heartbeat, one has to first navigate the chest area and get past the breasts. Why, then, do we still negate the importance of speaking of breast health, except when the situation arises that a woman has to remove her breast(s)? Breast health and care are everyday topics and good practices should begin with understanding the importance of good support of bras and the importance of even distribution of the weight of breast tissue and its effect on the spine. 40

The bra, which acts as the first layer of support and the barrier against bodily secretions and perspiration, can contribute to the overall sense of well-being of women, from a comfort and aesthetic point of view. However, digging deeper into the discussion, one can also draw a parallel to her posture and her overall health, simply because the principles of balance and good posture demand that the weight of breast tissue should essentially be evenly distributed around the body.

This is ever more so important when she is wearing a breast prosthesis, which in the case of a woman who has had a mastectomy, should be subject to a professional bra fitting and evaluation to determine the exact type of breast prosthesis to wear, way beyond the intent of the semblance of symmetry, but more from the perspective of ensuring that there is no compromise to gait, posture, or pressure on the upper extremities.

A WOMAN’S HEALTH… A VITAL NEED TO EXAMINE

Women seldom correlate breast weight to balance with any other situations that may derive from the improper fit of a bra. But paying close attention to pressure points, one can see how an uncomfortably fitting bra can induce back pain, neck pain, headaches, and even muscular spasm due to circulatory prohibition.

BREAST CARE DURING EXERCISE This brings to mind women who exercise in inappropriate bras or create various substitutes to good fitting bras: some use more than one bra to secure the breasts, without paying attention to the harm that is being done to the breast tissue via compression, which in most cases also prohibits proper circulation during exercise. Sweat also remains trapped in the breast area, and can lead to skin sensitivity. Young women and girls should be treated to a bra fitting at least twice per year in order to adjust any changes that may occur to their bodies that require adequate support. These have all been situations that Ms. Brafit has addressed, especially as a partner and support in the non-clinical aspect of breast and women’s health.

ABOUT MS. BRAFIT Some of the achievements and milestones achieved by Ms. Brafit and CEO/Founder, Nicole Joseph-Chin, include recognition by international bodies for her work in advocacy and breast health awareness, representing her country in many educational events to present papers on breast health and post-surgical care recommendations for women in treatment. She is the author of the Treatment Companion, a personal wellness tool and health journal, which helps women keep track of her health and wellness that is critical for her treatment regimen, especially in any situations of emergency. She has developed a series of Caribbean brands, which include educational services and seminars. In collaboration with a renowned fashion designer, the Pink Slip Project label was created to allow women in treatment to benefit from a garment that could be used by every woman regardless of her size or age. The proceeds were contributed to women who required bras and other post-surgical garments that they could not afford. 41

CSR: The Art of Sustainable Corporate Giving

Corporate Social Responsibility THE ART OF SUSTAINABLE CORPORATE GIVING Written by The TTCIC

atherine Da Silva, Member, Corporate Social Responsibility Committee of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee is dedicated to technical training, advocacy and education in the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility. In the 2012 UNDP Report on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) entitled “View from the Boardroom”, Dr Jens Ulrich Poppen first noted that less than 20% of Small/Medium Enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago are, in fact, engaged in defined and structured CSR programmes. While there was an obvious recognition of and valid reasons for the implementation of CSR, it had not been embraced or inculcated into the culture or strategic planning efforts of diverse sectors. CSR is a management concept whereby companies integrate social, economic and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with stakeholders. It takes into consideration the company's effects on the environment and positive impact on social welfare. Dynamic and fast-paced organizational change, global socio-economic, environmental and political events and issues have determined a future of uncertainty that is reliant on agility and careful planning. Above all, it means that discerning organisations are more than ever carefully aligning their goals and objectives with strategic plans and their implementation as it relates to internal and external publics. In spite of challenges, multinationals, transnationals and conglomerates recognise the value of and role of CSR in strengthening and maintaining intrinsic engagements with

customers, communities, and stakeholders. Ethical considerations, bound by good governance, underline the way, in which programmes and initiatives are fashioned towards sustainable impact. CSR should at its best and most effective usage, become a fundamental part of the way business is conducted and in the fulfilment of all important social, economic, eco-conscious and overriding ethical responsibilities. It can and will attain and serve to sustain progressive and lasting relationships, as it alternatively facilitates measurement and leverages on the use of resources and the creation of resourcefulness. The Art of Corporate giving with carefully designed CSR strategies and programmes ensures that a certain competitive edge is achieved — navigating a company in the direction of visible, tangible and viable stakeholder engagement for a determined or sustainable period of time. It is well worth the investment as a gift that keeps on giving. Volunteerism for instance within high energy, resourceful firms has greatly benefited NGO's and their community engagements having bountiful effects and ripples. Quite apart from dedicated planning and budgeting, CSR must earn the buy-in of the Boardroom to secure its rightful place in outreach and engagement. Planning and implementation follow on to identify relevant CSR programmes/initiatives, which are embraced and aligned with company goals; stringent and realistic deadlines are set and met; resources are itemized and reserved (internal/external); volunteers, consultants and advisors are co-opted and measurement tools/records are identified and integrated. These details, when effectively applied, ensure that penned and thought-out activities are translated into real ACTION to empower, change and transform communities and the global spatial plain.

yoPRO SOCIAL MEDIA

Written by Brett Torina

ixteen years old, about to graduate and face the world. Mom and Dad have provided the opportunity to attend school. Teachers and counselors have given me guidance, and I know what to do next. During my first interview, the hiring manager asks me: “What are my strengths and what are my weaknesses? Am I detail oriented? How do I resolve an issue when a customer complains?” Suddenly, I look back on my past and realize that I have not been prepared for this. Where do I get the answers for these questions? Who can I turn to for this resource? Youth and young professionals are often seen as ill prepared for the workforce. Recruiters and hiring managers alike face a daunting task time and time again, to sift through a pool of applicants who are seemingly not equipped for jobs that require little or no expertise. Yet the problem remains pervasive. The answer is not that far away. The answer graduated one year earlier. The path to understanding these answers can be given by the professional before them. Life doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. It doesn’t have to be a hunt for the perfect solution, the perfect candidate, the perfect job or the perfect opportunity. The knowledge that somebody has the answer you’re looking for and that his or her support is available, can be the difference between being prepared for that job interview and trying to figure out what the right answer is. YoPro Global is a social community that brings together young professionals and those who have gone just before with those who have been in the workforce and possess extensive experience. Youth and young professionals have the opportunity to explore, learn from, and grow with seasoned professionals who want nothing more than to give back. YoPro gives seasoned professionals an opportunity to shape the youth of tomorrow, today. The ROI is better customer service, less crime, more tourism, access to foreign direct investment, vibrant

entrepreneurial sector, creativity and innovation, an overall productive society and fun and engaging youth. By creating simple opportunities for youth and young professionals to have access to seasoned and more experienced professionals where interpersonal skills, communication, and personal branding are learned, young professionals finally have a shot at meeting expectations of employers in the local, regional and global marketplace. But we didn’t stop there. It isn’t enough to just say that we provide an opportunity for people to meet, so we have taken an extra step. When we provide an opportunity like a networking event, we show you how to take advantage of it. So at YoPro events, attendees benefit from our signature facilitated networking which is the ability for someone to walk into a YoPro event without knowing anyone there and walk out having made 3 new friends. Through guided interactions we’re able to identify individuals that each young professional in attendance should meet and personally make those introductions. We make those locally and globally. And our vision continues to grow! 2015 will see YoPro’s expansion in the startup industry, within multi-national and national corporations, amongst local and regional influencers, its driven young professionals and through the region as a whole. With 40 events in Trinidad and Tobago alone, YoPro will kick off the year with the business of Carnival networking event on January 22nd, 2015. Our goal is simple. Prepare youth and young professionals by presenting them with opportunities and then support them in the pursuit of those opportunities. YoPro does this while fostering a community of their peers and seasoned mentors. For more information about YoPro happenings and events contact us at admin@yoproglobal.org. 43

INDUSTRY

WHAT’S GOING ON ASSOCIATION OF FEMALE EXECUTIVES OF TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS London Festival of Architecture

Mothers’ Day Brunch DATE: May 10th VENUE: TBA CONTACT: 681-7024 or 354-7130

THEME: DATE: VENUE: CONTACT:

Work in Progress June 2015 London www.britishcouncil.org

Suit Me Up 15 DATE: November VENUE: TBA CONTACT: 681-7024 or 354-7130

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CHAMBER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE FMM Conference & Expo

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO COALITION OF SERVICES INDUSTRIES (TTCSI)

DATE: VENUE:

May 13th & 14th Hyatt Regency Hotel

Jumpstart Mentorship Caribbean Fraud Conference DATE: June 8th & 9th 2015 VENUE: Trinidad Hilton & Conference Centre CONTACT: 622-9229 ext 28 www.ttcsi.org

DATE: VENUE:

May 23rd TBA)

Financial Management Health & Wellness DATE: VENUE:

June 6th T&T Chamber

Carnival Gateway Hub launch and Mas Gone Green DATE: May 27-29th VENUE: Centre of Excellence CONTACT: 622-9229 ext 28 www.ttcsi.org

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE

Street Arts Festival DATE: July 4th 2015 VENUE: Adam Smith Square CONTACT: 622-9229 ext 27 www.ttcsi.org

HR Analytics-HR Audit/HR Metrics DATE:

June 24th

Effective Business Writing National Services Week 2015 THEME: DATE: VENUE: CONTACT:

Ready, Set, Grow! November 2nd – 6th 2015 Trinidad Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre 622-9229 ext 26 www.ttcsi.org

DATE:

June 26th

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION (TTMA) Trade and Investment Convention DATE: July 8th- 11th, 2015 VENUE: Centre of Excellence, Macoya CONTACT: 675-8862 ext 223 www.tic-tt.com

MEMBERS’ CORNER

TTRMI

The Trinidad & Tobago Risk Management Institute.

Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing... Warren Buffet The unknown represents uncertainty. In the language of risk: Risk is the effect of uncertainty on the achievement of objectives. Since all organizations face uncertainty, the challenge for management is to determine how much uncertainty to accept, as the organization strives to deliver value. In fact, uncertainty presents both risk and opportunity, with the potential to erode or enhance value. How can organizations best handle this double-edged sword? One way to do so is employing a risk-managing framework, e.g. Operational Risk Management (ORM) or Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). ERM is the process of strategically planning, organizing, leading, and controlling the activities of an organization in order to minimize the effects of risk on an organization's resources and outcomes. ERM enables management to effectively deal with uncertainty and associated risk and opportunity, enhancing the capacity to build value, according to the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. As managers strive to cope with an increasingly dynamic business environment, the need for risk management is more evident. Coming into the arena is the Trinidad and Tobago Risk

Management Institute (TTRMI), which aims to close the skills gaps by bringing Risk Management competency to the highest level.

About Us The Trinidad and Tobago Risk Management Institute (TTRMI) was established in 2012 through the vision of Mr. Ken Hackshaw, a risk professional with over 20 years of successful experience in operations, consulting and training in risk management to public and private sector clients in Trinidad & Tobago and North America. The institute’s Advisory Council comprises individual expert consultants and academics who have successfully developed and delivered consulting services in Risk Management to a wide range of international and regional clients and governments. According to Mr. Hackshaw, “TTRMI aims to bring us to the point where we stop blindly hoping for the best, and address risk proactively”. He emphasizes the importance of investing in risk education, training and continuing professional development for a more risk-intelligent workforce, and improved risk culture. The TTRMI aims to be the Caribbean’s leading enterprise-wide risk management education and training institute. The Institute comprises independent, well-respected advocates of the risk profession and practicing professionals. The formal launch of the Institute took place at the Inaugural Caribbean Risk Management Conference, which was held at the Radisson Hotel, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad on Friday 7th November 2014. With keynote speakers Senator the Honourable Larry Howai, Minister of Finance, and Dr. Karen Hardy, Author, Consultant and Senior Advisor in the Office of the US President, the 2014 conference focused on the value of Enterprise Risk Management in the Public Sector. In his speech, Senator Howai

noted that “Risk Management creates and protects value. It contributes to the demonstrable achievement of objectives and improvement of performance.” At the Conference, the Institute also launched its online Risk App, Risk Assessment Management System (RAMS).

MISSION The Mission of TTRMI is to promote the development and implementation of a risk management culture within private and public sector enterprise by providing a vehicle for the initial training and lifelong learning opportunities for new and established risk management professionals throughout the Caribbean. TTRMI’s goal is to strive to become a locally and regionally recognized knowledge centre in risk management, to provide training and opportunities to new and existing risk practitioners, to learn, discuss and exchange ideas on both the principles and the practical application of risk management. The Institute thereby seeks to develop thought leadership and provide learning opportunities by and for risk professionals, with a view to enhancing risk management best practice, both locally and regionally.

BRIDGING THE GAP TTRMI is uniquely poised to provide basic to expert education for private and public service companies on effective risk assessment, risk culture building, evidence-based risk-related policies, processes and the ongoing oversight in effective solutions implementation.

Website: www.ttrmi.com Email: info@ttrmi.com Phone: 468-0649 Address: 119 Mineola Boulevard, Orchard Gardens, Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago 45

PRESENTS

A CALL TO SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS TO TAKE ON AN EXCITING

The “I AM” 2015 Green Building Secondary School competition is a call to 3rd and 4th form school teams to identify, document and analyse a challenge related to energy efficiency at their school and to present a solution incorporating Green Building principles. The main theme of the “I AM” competition this year will be on Climate Change. The main objective is to challenge students to incorporate green building practices as tools in climate change mitigation through renewable energy principles. The other objectives include: • • • • •

Empowering students Fostering teamwork Promote awareness of energy efficiency Creating a culture of research and critical thinking Appreciation for the use of energy in buildings. Presentations must be in a PowerPoint format with 20 slides or less and must illustrate the challenge, its analysis and the solution. Cash Prizes to be won and much more.

Registration forms must be submitted by September 11, 2015. All competition submissions must be received by October 16, 2015. IN COLLABORATION WITH

Trinidad & Tobago Institute of Architects

SUPPORTED BY

For more details on the Competition, please contact Sherry Hassanali or Vanessa Joseph at the TTCSI Secretariat at 622-9229 or via email at shassanali@ttcsi.org OR vjoseph@ttcsi.org

MEMBER’S CORNER