Bahamas Business Outlook heads to Andros this month, with a focus on innovation and how Androsians are boosting their island's economy by reviving traditional, sustainable arts and enterprises, according to TCL Group President Joan Albury, founder of the Outlook series.
Noting that Prime Minister Perry Christie will give the keynote address at the Fourth Annual Andros Business Outlook Seminar, Albury said an essential part of each of the seven forums in the Business Outlook series is the opportunity to hear directly from the prime minister, as leader of government, what government's plans for the island are. The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, 2015, at Daniel's Dream Centre, Nicholl's Town, Andros, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Christie is expected to speak to the theme "Securing Andros through Planning, Partnership and Productivity".
"We are anticipating elaboration on such government initiatives as BAMSI that have been the topic of much concern and public debate. We deeply appreciate the prime minister's participation and the input of an excellent slate of sector experts," Albury said.
"In Andros this year we're highlighting innovation and how Androsians are boosting their island's economy by reviving traditional, sustainable arts and enterprises. This is the main aim and drive of the Business Outlook series -- to educate and keep Bahamians abreast of our primary industries and key national issues, as well as to promote self-help, innovation, environmental protection and overall sustainability.
"These are the pursuits that will bring to the fore the best of our islands and our people. Above all, each Outlook helps us to learn directly from the people of each island what they see as essential to growing their economy and opportunities for personal and business growth," Albury said.
Alphonso Smith, domestic investment manager, Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) will moderate the event, and the following addresses are expected:
o "Sustainable livelihood: Opportunities abound" - Donnalee Bowe, assistant general manager, Handicraft Development Department, BAIC;
o "Updates on tourism: Adding value to Andros tourism" - Peter Douglas, manager, Ministry Of Tourism, Andros;
o "BAMSI: Transforming agriculture in The Bahamas" - Godfrey Eneas, ambassador, Food and Agriculture Organization;
o "VAT Compliance" - Ralph Munroe, head of compliance and audit, Department of Inland Revenue; "The Future of the fly fishing industry" - Shawn Leadon, owner, Andros Outdoor Adventures; part-owner of Andros Island Bone fishing Club;
o "The sponging industry in Andros: Challenges and opportunities" - Lynward Saunders, president, Bahamas Commercial Spongers Association;
o "Integrated coastal zone management in the context of the ecosystem-based development plan for Andros" - Cassandra T Rogers, disaster risk management lead specialist, Inter American Development Bank; and
o "Changing and sustaining the construction industry in the Berry Islands" - Terry Winder, president, Winder Construction.
"Partnerships are important to the success of Business Outlook. We deeply appreciate the input of our speakers and the continuing support of the forum from the Andros Chamber of Commerce, BAIC, and the Ministry of Tourism's office on the island," Albury said.
For more information on Andros Business Outlook and registration for the forum contact Margaret Albury at The Counsellors Ltd., telephone 322-7505/6 or 322-1000, email malbury@tclbahamas.com, or visit www.tclevents.com.
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