Welcome Speech by Commissioner of Tourism, Derrick Simmons - SSC-5

Dear participants,

Seeing our island as a tourist destination and tourism being one of the economic pillars of our economy, we must take into consideration how important sustainability and accessibility are today. The Government of our Island takes pleasure in welcoming you to our island and to the 5^th annual Statia Sustainable Conference (SSC).

When we put our minds together there is no obstacle that can’t be overcome. I anticipate, by using the previous conference as a benchmark, that this conference too will bear fruits and enhance entrepreneurship, resulting in the growth of small and medium businesses.

Let me give a special welcome to the keynote speaker, Mr. Ian Blanchard, Managing Director/Coach CILC Action of Barbados. Make use of his passion for helping businesses be successful. Often we only associate the term coach with sports, but sports coaches are not only there during the sporting event but are often involved in the day to day activities of the athletes. It makes sense to have a business coach also who guides businesses in its development.

On a final note, please actively participate in this conference, because you are encouraged to be a participant rather than a spectator.

Welcome to delegates by Chandé Eboni Rivers

Welcome to the Historical Gem of the Caribbean, St. Eustatius, and welcome to the 5th annual Statia Sustainable Conference. My name is Chandé Eboni Rivers, a 19 year old Hospitality Management student, who attends College in The Netherlands and is fortunate enough to be currently doing Internship at a hotel on St. Maarten and St. Eustatius. Since July 27th, 2016 I have been crowned Statia’s Senior Carnival Queen. My family and I are extremely proud of this accomplishment, but more so honored to be considered an Ambassador for the island of my birth. Coming from a bloodline of Entrepreneurs, I am blessed and driven to become a successful Entrepreneur one day, and in keeping with my area of study, hope to join the Tourism Industry on my Island in the near future and contribute the knowledge and experience I have acquired during my years abroad. To the visitors, especially those who may be visiting us for the first time, I hope that you have considered leaving some space in your schedule to see our beautiful island, perhaps; hike the quill, take a dive or enjoy some local music and food. I wish you all an enjoyable, informative and productive conference.