Good chance of winning CIC – Vincy innovator

Once he presents himself well, Vincentian finalist Kamara Jerome thinks he stands a good chance of winning the Caribbean Innovation Challenge (CIC).{{more}}

“My chance of winning should not be too challenging, because I don’t think anyone else is doing anything like it. My idea is creative,” Jerome told SEARCHLIGHT yesterday.

The 20-year-old, who is among 19 other finalists, expressed a great deal of happiness for having made it to the final stage of the competition.

“It is a great feeling. This is my first time being in such a big competition for the Caribbean,” he said.

Selected from 493 participants, 20 finalists will have the opportunity to showcase and present their projects to regional and international business experts during the final stage of judging.

The finalists will also be able to meet potential partners and investors who will have a chance to offer additional support to develop their businesses.

Jerome, operator and owner of Emerald Energy, will showcase his boat prototype, which was developed using green technology. It is powered by solar and wind energy, making the prototype environmentally friendly.

Corresponding with the expo, there will be an area dedicated to promoting leadership links for young entrepreneurs such as Jerome, which will be facilitated by CIC resource persons and partner organizations.

Resource persons will facilitate expertise exchanges, learning and connections that support growth and expansion of youth-led businesses. In addition, young entrepreneurs will have a chance to receive personally tailored advice from business experts through one-on-one sessions.

The final of the CIC will be held at the Hilton Resort in Barbados this week, commencing with an opening ceremony on Thursday and it will be followed by an award ceremony on Friday.

Jerome thanked everyone who contributed to his project, and stated that without their help, his idea would not have become a reality. He also thanked persons who supported him via social media and said that he is looking forward to their continued support.

Included in the list of persons he thanked were Omroy “OT” Theophilus Mayers, Dr Sherian Slater, SVG General Services and BMC Agencies.