CARICHAM Chair applauds BVI Chamber revamp

Caption (l to r): Honorable Vincent O. Wheatley – Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration, Mrs. Shaina Smith-Archer - Chair of the British Virgin Island Chamber of Commerce, Dr. the Honorable Natalio D. Wheatley – Premier of BVI, Ms. Petipha Lewis - Chair of CARICHAM and Executive Director of the Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Honorable Kye M. Rymer-Deputy Premier Minister for Communications and Works, District 5 Representative.

Tortola, British Virgin Islands-

Ms. Petipha Lewis, Chair of the Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM), delivered the keynote address at a British Virgin Islands Chamber of Commerce function marking its recent rebranding and reorganization. The event, held on 22nd August 2023, in Road Town, Tortola, marked a significant milestone for the BVI Chamber showcasing their commitment to optimizing the business and tourism sectors.

In her address, Ms. Lewis acknowledged the challenges and opportunities inherent in such a transition. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique needs of the business and tourism sectors. Ms. Lewis commended the move to establish dedicated organizations, noting that it is a strategic approach that will allow specialized support for each sector.

“The journey towards rebranding and the launch of the new tourism focused advocacy group, represents a strategic step towards maximizing the potential of both sectors and enhancing the collective impact and resilience of the local economy. A rebranded chamber signifies forward thinking leadership, adaptability, openness to change, and a commitment to fostering an environment conducive to business growth”, she stated.

Ms. Lewis shared that the event reflects the chamber’s commitment to fostering economic growth and resilience in the British Virgin Islands. She called for ongoing adaptability, collaboration, and innovation as essential drivers of success.

Mrs. Shaina Smith-Archer, Chair of the BVI Chamber, reaffirmed the chamber's commitment and mission to empower, educate, and equip businesses for success and growth. She pledged the chamber's dedication to be a driving force in the evolution of the local economy and to mentor future business leaders, while also advocating for a business-friendly environment.

The Honorable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier of the BVI, congratulated the BVI Chamber for its rebranding efforts and stressed the importance of collaboration between the chamber and the government. He committed his government to partner with the chamber on incentives and business-friendly policies to support local businesses during uncertain times.

Deputy Premier Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, Minister of Financial Services, Labour and Trade also extended congratulations and echoed the call for partnership, pledging her commitment to collaborate with the chamber to promote business growth through technology adoption.

--- END---