To start the economy moving and promote businesses on the island, particularly those newly created since the COVID-19 pandemic, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) hosted two events showcasing the hard work and creativity of island business owners. On Friday, March 26th, the first one was a ‘Women in Business Expo’ featuring female entrepreneurs, and the following day was Market Day, promoting a variety of large and small businesses.
Both events took place at the Honourable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex and attracted many shoppers. The commerce-geared event offered great deals on an assortment of products.
Deputy Mayor Dianeli Aranda led the Women in Business Expo in collaboration with islander Kristina Romero who is a commissioner of the National Women’s Commission, and Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez.
The four-and-a-half-hour event started at 4PM, and the public was allowed inside the sporting complex after being screened (sanitized and temperature reading). Around 32 booths showcasing different businesses operated by women welcomed the onlookers and shoppers. There were stalls selling clothing, household items, arts, and souvenirs. Other booths offered design and marketing services, pastries, healthy eats, a ceviche bar, and even massages were available. The event, serenaded by DJ Debbie, saw a good deal of traffic, and was considered a success, benefiting those participating.
At the end of the function, Nuñez and Aranda distributed certificates of appreciation to all the businesses that participated in the first ‘Women in Business Expo.’
Market Day
On Saturday, March 27th, as early as 7AM the sporting complex was busy with more than 50 booths with new and local businesses. There was a variety to pick from, with large groups like Bowen and Bowen, Smart and Digicell, to small fruit and vegetable booths. The event also had a jewellery section, wine area, food, clothing, and a booth dedicated to services for emergencies.
The business operators welcomed this initiative by the SPTC. They say it helps in promoting and selling their services. Many of these businesses are new, and Market Day served as the bridge to introduce themselves to the community.
The SPTC looks forward to hosting such events in the future. The town administration believes this is one good way to bring residents together to support the local market. The pandemic has hit the island hard, and as such public events like these help in re-starting the local economy.
The SPTC and its staff, volunteers, and everyone who assisted thank the participants and everyone who came out to support the events. This is expected to be the first of many commerce-centric events on La Isla Bonita.
