Charlestown, Nevis – Wednesday, August 19, 2020 was a significant day in the lives of over thirty self-employed individuals on Nevis.
On that day, they attended a Self-employed symposium, hosted jointly by the Social Security Board (specifically, the Branch office in Nevis) and the Small Enterprises Development Unit (SEDU).
The morning’s proceedings commenced with an invocation by Pastor Bernard Browne and the national anthem was beautifully sung by Social Security staffer, Miss Akiana Skelton.
The welcome remarks were delivered by Mr. Curtis Morton, former Branch Office Manager with the Social Security Board, who ably chaired the day’s event. The participants were then captivated by some outstanding presentations from some truly versed speakers.
Director of the Social Security Board, Mr. Antonio Maynard, gave a historical overview of the Social Security Board and the significant contributions that have been made, during the COVID-19 crisis.
Premier of Nevis and former Social Security Scholarship holder, Hon. Mark A. G. Brantley in his presentation lauded the Social Security Board for its significant contribution to the welfare of the society. He urged the Self-employed persons to continue to make their contributions when possible, as they will reap many benefits in the short term and long term future.
Senior Manager at the Branch office, Mr. Donovan Herbert, gave a comprehensive overview of the Self-employed coverage and how it works.
SEDU representative, Mrs. Angela Delpeche, gave a detailed outline as to the workings of the Unit and urged the self-employed persons present, to take advantage of the many services offered to assist them in their business endeavours.
Chief Information Officer at National Bank, Mr. Quincy Prentice, then took the participants through the paces, in a simplified form, as to how they can make effective use of technology, to grow their business.
Just on the verge of lunch, a former manager at the Bank of Nevis and now successful entrepreneur, Mr. Rawlinson Isaac, somehow managed to get his audience to forget all about lunch, as they listened intently, as he gave them many useful tips, as to how to become successful businessmen and women.
Immediately after lunch, Mr. Peter Adrien expounded on the topic REBUILDING in the COVID ECONOMY.
The final presenter was Mr. Jacob Katsman, who gave insights into the INVISIBLE HAND FOUNDATION and guided the participants through the process of acquiring loans from the fund.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Vernel Powell, Deputy Director of Social Security, who thanked all of the presenters and also thanked the participants for coming. He had special praise for Inspector at the Branch office, Mrs. Karen Claxton, who was instrumental in coordinating the event.