The Barbados Consulate in New York is about to launch a project aimed at helping Barbadians and Americans wanting to do business with the island who live and work in the city, with a particular emphasis on small business entrepreneurs.
This was revealed recently by Consul General Lorenzo Harewood in his New Year’s address.
“In line with our focus development, we are excited to announce the build-out of a dedicated business unit at the consulate. This unit will serve as a hub for supporting entrepreneurs, investors and business leaders who wish to engage with Barbados in meaningful ways,” he said.
The project, he added, aims to make doing business with Barbados smoother by offering assistance, guidance and strategic connections that will make for more efficient and beneficial partnerships.
“It is an important step forward in making our consulate not just a point of connection, but a driver of business opportunities and growth.”
Harewood noted that in 2025 there will be a concentrated effort to establish a truly functional and meaningful Barbados Business Network, which will serve as a platform for Bajan entrepreneurs, professionals and investors to connect, collaborate and create new opportunities.
“It will bridge the gap between Barbados and the global business community, allowing for the exchange of ideas, investment and expertise,” the consul general said.
He said the consulate is excited to bring the vision to life and to ensure the network becomes a key asset for both Barbados and the diaspora.
Harewood disclosed that one of the most significant achievements in the new year will be the establishment
of an internship programme aimed at providing young Barbadians in the diaspora with meaningful hands-on, learning experiences.
The programme is designed to offer valuable opportunities for professional development at an individual level, helping the youth involved with developing skills, building networks and making important career choices and connections.
“It reflects our commitment to creating pathways for young Barbadians to succeed and thrive, both in the United States and back home in Barbados. We believe that investing in their growth will benefit not just the individuals, but also strengthen the relationship between the diaspora and the island,” he said.
Another major focus for the consulate in 2025 will be the broadening of its outreach to ensure all Barbadians in the diaspora, particularly those whose parents were born in Barbados, are fully aware of their entitlement to Barbadian citizenship.
He explained that the initiative is not just about expanding access to that citizenship, but also encouraging individuals with various skill sets, experiences and perspectives to return to Barbados and contribute to its development.
Harewood said citizenship offers an opportunity to diversify options and provides a chance to give back to the country. (BA)
