Small businesses, such as shops, grocery stores, and convenience stores, are a fundamental pillar in the economy and everyday life of Saint Lucia. Besides their economic significance, these small businesses hold rich cultural and communal value. On Tuesday November 7th, The Coca Cola Foundation and Heineken Saint Lucia Ltd officially launched ‘Growing Together’; a free digital training programme aimed at empowering small business owners.
The launch tool place at the Gros Islet Human Resource Centre.
In presenting the programme at Tuesday’s launch, Managing Director of Heineken Saint Lucia Mrs. Holly Bostock said that “as a global company with incredibly impactful global brands, we understand our responsibility to use our business as a positive force for change. Over the years we have remained committed to making a positive contribution to the communities where we source, live, work and sell our products; and today is no different, as we officially introduce Growing Together to Saint Lucia.”
“Traditional trade shops are places where local traditions and customs can be found, and spaces that promote dialogue and community interaction. Hence, to facilitate the continued growth of these spaces, over one hundred (100) small business owners will benefit from this programme.” Bostock added.
This course covers topics such as: inclusion and personal growth, managing your business, digitalization of the business, and financial health. It is available 24 hours a day, accessible on mobile phones, and can be completed in just 90 minutes, leading to a diploma to validates participants’ efforts.
Honourable Emma Hippolyte Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs was in attendance and gave her Ministry’s full endorsement of the programme, notably emphasising that “given such a rapidly changing business landscape, digital transformation is crucial, as it represents a fundamental shift in streamlining business operations.”
Also in attendance was Honourable Kenson Casimir, Parliamentary Representative for Gros Islet, Executive Director of the St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce Mr. Bryan Louisy, and Mrs. Reena Teelucksingh, Coca-Cola Franchise Operations Manager for KOSCAB, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. Representatives of the Gros-Islet Vendors Association were also present and profited the opportunity to sign up for the training programme.
In the month of December, an exclusive in-person training will be hosted in the south for Heineken Saint Lucia customers, Coca-Cola trade partners and community-based groups along the southern belt.
This innovative economic empowerment initiative is also available to shopkeepers of traditional trade businesses in Jamaica, Belize and Saint Lucia.