On Tuesday, November 11, the OPSR hosted a graduation ceremony and Exposition for the participants of the 2008 SME-CLIMB programme. Following the success of the first year and the enthusiasm expressed by other small business towards the programme, the OPSR felt it imperative to continue the programme for yet another year allowing more small business to reap the benefits.

The first part of the event consisted of a business forum during which representatives of the different business associations made presentations to the participants in an effort to encourage them to become members. Presenting organizations included the St.Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association(SLHTA) represented by Ms Angela Alphonse, St.Lucia Small Business Association(SLISBA) represented by Mr. Martin Satney, Mr. Royston Taylor stood in for the St. Lucia Manufacturers Association (SMA) and Mr. Bryan Louisy spoke on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture. Each speaker gave an encouraging and passionate speech on their organization and the benefits of joining the association. Participants showed a very keen interest and continued discussions with the different representatives even after the forum. The OPSR pledged its further support to the CLIMB participants by offering the first year’s membership to any organization.

The graduation ceremony in no way fell short of that for college graduates. The participants walked the aisle to receive with great pride, their certificates of participation and certificates for their businesses. The anticipation and excitement amplified when it was announced that the best student in each discipline would be given a special award, as well as the overall best student in each geographic cluster. A highlight of the ceremony was the inspirational and stirring presentation by guest speaker, local business man, Mr. Rayneau Gajadhar, Managing Director of Construction and Industrial Equipment Ltd and R.J. Quarries, who drove his point home when he held up a hundred dollar note and, after insisting three times who wanted the bill, finally got it snatched out of his hand by a participant.

After being treated to some tasty delights by caterer, Sweet Escapes, a participant in the 2007 programme, the participants assumed their place at the Expo showcasing the exciting diversity of the goods and services they offer. Also invited to exhibit were the participants of the 2007 programme.

As part of the programme the CLIMB participants received tuition in Strategic Planning, Financial Accounting, IT, Business Law and Marketing. They were also equipped with computers, printers and fax machines and a logo, business cards and business sign were designed for those in need of establishing or reinforcing their corporate identification.