The Hoyte’s Village Playing Field, St James, came alive yesterday as residents and visitors joined together for the latest stop of the We Gatherin’ Road Show, a day filled with music, family fun, and opportunities for small business owners to showcase their skills.
From as early as 10 a.m., the playing field buzzed with activity. Vendors lined the perimeter with craft items, clothing, and locally made treats, taking full advantage of the chance to put their work before the community. Artisans reported a steady flow of interest, with several remarking that the event provided an invaluable platform to reach new customers and build their brand.
The atmosphere was festive, fuelled by lively sets from the DJ, while children enjoyed a jumping tent, games, and face-painting. Many families turned the day into an outing, mingling freely across the field.
Dozens of small business owners and corporate entities also gathered for the Emerging Entrepreneur Trade Fair and Business Expo hosted through a partnership between the Barbados Trust Fund Limited (BTFL), the Office of the Supervisor of Insolvency and the St James We Gatherin’ Committee.
Senior Administrative Officer at BTFL, Joezane Joseph, said the event marked a continuation of the entrepreneur-focused expos held during the 2024 Cricket World Cup and another in June at Weymouth, Bridgetown.
“The turnout today is actually great. I’m so happy to see the amount of entrepreneurs here and the support from corporate entities,” she told the Sunday Sun.
The expo featured live booths from key government departments, including the National Insurance and Social Security Services, Barbados Inland Revenue, and fintech initiative BimPay from the Central Bank of Barbados, all providing information to support emerging businesses.
Adding entertainment to the mix was a lighthearted cook-off between Ministers Chad Blackman and Sandra Husbands, drawing enthusiastic crowds and showcasing the event’s community spirit.
For some of the patrons the highlight was the sense of togetherness that the event fostered.
“This is what community life is about,” said Simone Clarke, a Hoyte’s Village resident who attended with her two young children. “We’re seeing people support the vendors, the children are playing safely, and everyone is enjoying themselves. It brings back the old village spirit.”
Entrepreneur Jason Phillips, who showcased handmade
jewellery, praised the initiative.
“It’s not just about sales,” he explained. “It’s about meeting people, building connections, and letting the community know that local talent is here and thriving.”
Others also welcomed the opportunity for neighbourly bonding. Retired teacher Marjorie Green noted: “Too often we pass each other on the street without saying hello. Today gave us a chance to stop, chat, and laugh together. That’s priceless.” ( CLM/RRM)
