On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, the Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme hosted a Virtual Fireside Chat titled "Pivot to Persist: Entrepreneurship Chronicles" in partnership with the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), and Mona Entrepreneurial and Commercialization Centre (MECC). This event was part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, a celebration of entrepreneurs worldwide.
The chat highlighted programme alumni, including Queritel's CEO and COO, Shani Bennett and Kevonne Martin, as well as local contributors like Larren Peart, founder of Bluedot Insights, and Kadeen Harvey, CEO and founder of Fruit Blossoms. Dr. Chenielle Delyahaye-McKenzie, CEO of De La Enzie Essentials, also participated.
Moderated by Mr. Ramon McLaren, a Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme Committee member and MSBM Lecturer, the event featured insightful and challenging discussions. Participants shared their journeys, starting with Shani and Kevonne, who discussed their experiences with the UWI VC programme and their work on Queritel. They developed an AI solution for market trends and discussions for Fortune 500 companies and their latest innovation, Figozo, optimizes customer lifecycles, making them one of Missouri’s fastest-growing startups. They also spoke about their decision to relocate to the United States for better startup funding and a supportive environment.
Kadeen Harvey shared how her background as a cosmetologist inspired her to start Fruit Blossoms, a business providing fresh, locally sourced fruit arrangements and healthy snacks. She emphasized how her creativity and natural abilities contributed to her success.
Larren Peart candidly discussed his motivation to escape financial struggles and his journey in research and data intelligence with Bluedot Insights. He highlighted the importance of giving back and the virtuous cycle as key motivators.
Dr. Delyahaye-McKenzie, an award-winning entrepreneur and nutraceutical business owner, shared her passion for her field, which she discovered through her studies. She recounted her unique experiences, such as searching for plants on Hope Road for further testing.
The chat brought the entrepreneurs' journeys to life, covering both the challenges and the successes, and aimed to encourage all entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs to continue pursuing their endeavors.