The Entrepreneurs Association for Sustainable Development (EA) will be expanding its base in 2022 as it seeks to empower entrepreneurs through efficient growth and business development strategies by providing networking, mentorship, financial literacy and effective business practices.
“Our is aim is not just to develop businesses, the overall objective is the development of entrepreneurs, ethical and credible business leaders who in turn will be accountable and recognize their responsibility to pay it forward,” Founder of EA, Sonia Noel told the Village Voice Newspaper.
According to Noel, an Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Fashion Designer, EA, which was launched at the Pegasus Hotel last December, has a more than 60 members with a variety of goods and services from real estate, spa, to agro-processing and local beauty products.
She said at the end of January, the Executive will be interviewing potential members.
Noel said the Association is committed to creating a support organization to facilitate growth, networking, finance, marketing, personal, professional and entrepreneurial development among other opportunities to better accelerate and perpetuate entrepreneurial growth and sustainability in Guyana. As such, association intends to rake in as many entrepreneurs as possible to ensure they reap the benefits.
Noel said the Association has seven core values – honesty, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, cohesion, accountability and respect – with Romari Hastings as its President; Estiva Lake, Vice President; Nebiola Toppin, Secretary; and Latoya Barton, Treasurer.
Noel, Raquel Thomas Caesar, Christine Neblett and Lisa Insanally are advisers.
EA was previously Women Association for Sustainable Development, however in celebration of her 50th Birthday, Noel changed the name to allow for greater inclusivity.
An expo for 50 small businesses was held at the Giftland Mall as part of the celebration. It was not limited to gender and according to Noel, she was inspired by the male participants. “When I reflected I realize they are many organizations for women and girls and they are many young men who will do great with the right environment and mentorship. My contribution is more to humanity than gender,” she said.
