Silent Sweat Fete St. Kitts – Nevis
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – August 17, 2023 — Pre-launch celebrations for the new Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship, whose motto is “Building Businesses, Fuelling Innovation,” began on Tuesday, August 15, with the All-White Silent Sweat Fete — a vibrant outdoor networking and fitness event at Port Zante’s cruise passenger arrival area.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis, was choreographed by Sweat Master Elston Nisbett and featured a special appearance by Rohani “AkaiiUSweet” Hughes, who energized the crowd with wilders music, a high-tempo soca unique to small island culture. Popular hits like Bruk It Set It and Bounce and Roll It kept participants moving.
Although skies were overcast at the start and rain began at 6:00 p.m., the energy didn’t falter. Participants relocated to the arrival hall for half an hour before returning outside to continue the festivities.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Delrine Taylor, who participated alongside the entire ministry staff, thanked attendees for their enthusiasm and dedication. Key ministry leaders included Director Philip Browne, Assistant Secretary Leah Crag-Chaderton (MC for the evening), and Senior Business Advisor Kyla Gibson-Dore. Special guests included Ambassador H.E. Kenny Douglas and representatives from the Development Bank, Giselle Williams and Veronica Boddie.
The event’s success was bolstered by sponsorship from Digicel, as well as support from the Urban Development Corporation, the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Resources.
Prizes were awarded for categories such as Energy Ken, Hype Barbie, Best Dressed, Push-Up King and Queen, Sweat Titan, Sweat Goddess, and Ultimate Sweat Squad.
Pre-launch activities continue with the Community Business Series, including the second Community Business Meeting at the Key’s Community Centre on Thursday, August 17, at 6:00 p.m. According to Director Philip Browne, the goal is to foster collaboration, dialogue, and growth within the small business sector, partnering with organizations like the Inland Revenue Department, the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, and DCash.