Under the theme “Building Regional Brands for Global Scale”, Bank of Saint Lucia is turning its commitment to education and empowerment into action. Entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders from across the region gathered from March 18th for the landmark Caribbean Franchise Summit. This three-day intensive event runs till March 20th and marks the culmination of the Franchising Education & Development Series, a conference designed to expand Caribbean brands through the power of franchising.
The series is the brainchild of Michelle Samuel, a 2017 YLAI alumna and strategist behind SLUDTERA. Emphasing Bank of Saint Lucia’s role as Title Sponsor, Senior Manager – Marketing and Corporate Communications, Ms. Genevieve Downes, expressed eagerness to champion this initiative as a catalyst for economic empowerment and sustainability. “It serves as a bridge connecting global expertise and entrepreneurial talent, equipping local business owners with the resources they need to flourish.”
Attendees will learn from icons, Shawna Rollins of Delicious Treats Franchise, Christopher Conner of Franchise Marketing Systems, and Pan African Alliance for Small and Medium Industries’ Dr. Henry E. Emejuo, alongside Caribbean leaders driving regional change. Actionable roadmaps for financial modeling, legal frameworks, and expansion tactics will be discussed, while an exclusive Investor Reception presents an opportunity to network with over 100 industry experts.
The experience extends beyond the three days with a curated post-event masterclass on March 24th, offering intimate, hands-on sessions.