Made In The Bahamas Town Hall Meeting Highlights Key Steps Toward Certification and Promotes Local Talent

The Made In The Bahamas Town Hall Meeting was a resounding success. At the meeting, attendees were able to learn about the programme, and meet local vendors.

The Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) hosted its highly anticipated Made in The Bahamas Town Hall Meeting on November 14, 2024, at the Holy Trinity Activities Centre, Stapledon Gardens. The event, which celebrated Bahamian craftsmanship and fostered dialogue about the forthcoming Made In The Bahamas Certification Programme, was a tremendous success.

The evening began with remarks from Senator Hon. Randy Rolle, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Economic Affairs, Senator Hon. Michael Halkitis. His address emphasized the importance of the certification programme in elevating the global recognition of Bahamian products and driving economic growth.

Attendees were also treated to an engaging presentation by Fabian Scott, Deputy Director of the Barbados National Institute, who shared regional best practices and lessons learned from similar initiatives in the Caribbean. BBSQ presented the potential criteria for the certification programme and outlined the steps Bahamian businesses can take to become certified. 

Clint Watson, General Manager of the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas, expertly moderated the event, ensuring a lively and informative atmosphere. Attendees also had the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts about the certification programme during the public Q&A session.

The venue was alive with energy as local vendors showcased their products, highlighting the diversity and quality of Bahamian goods. Vendors included The Rose of Sharon, Anji, Da’ Goat, Cia Monet, Cultureware, Chelltunez, Media Box Bahamas, J Sweets, Everything Comes Up Art, Monica Ulinga, Lotus Gel, Taste of Cat Island Catering, Jimmy Wines and Spirits, and KC Catering, which also provided delicious food and desserts for the evening.

Key partners such as the Bahamas Agricultural Industrial Corporation (BAIC), The Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation, and the Bahama Light Industries Development Council (BILDC) set up tables to share their resources and services, further emphasizing collaboration within the business community.

BBSQ extends heartfelt gratitude to its staff, board members, and planning committees, including DG Incorporated, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event. Special thanks go to Fabian Scott for his insights, Ann Marie for her exceptional decorations, and KC Catering for the delicious food. We also thank our sponsors, Caribbean Bottling Company (Coca Cola Bahamas), Purity Bakery, Blanco Bleach, Echo Water, Graycliff, John Watlings Distillery, Aquapure, and Limeade Bahamas, who contributed to the event’s success, as did Mangra Studios, for their assistance with livestreaming the event and capturing content for the bureau.

Thanks to the Holy Trinity Activities Centre and its staff for hosting us, the press for covering the event, our vendors for showcasing their products, and, most importantly, the public for attending and engaging in this milestone event.

The Made In The Bahamas Town Hall Meeting marks a significant step toward fostering Bahamian pride and quality assurance, building a brighter future for local businesses.

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About BBSQ: The Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) is a corporate body dedicated to establishing and maintaining the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) in The Bahamas. Through metrology, standards, conformity assessment, and accreditation, BBSQ ensures that products and services meet the highest quality standards, promoting consumer safety and fair trade. BBSQ plays a crucial role in upholding the quality and safety of goods and services in the Bahamian market, fostering a culture of excellence that benefits both the local economy and international trade.