May 2020
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Contents 7
MAY 2020 ISSUE, VOL 2
E-commerce: opportunities for online sales in the Caribbean
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Do you have what it takes to become your own boss?
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Rhonda Glynn: Zoma Business Solutions
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Sustainable Living solutions
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Natural Beauty
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Taking Back Childhood
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Small steps can make a big difference
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Supporting local businesses
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5 ways to keep your business alive
Contributors
Kimberly Inglis Natasha Carlow Angel Harrt Verena Siblal Boodoosingh Peter Thavenot
Photography
Ken Hong Mack Mee-Mee Thavenot Shutterstock Pixabay Pexels Free pik
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Produced and Published by MEDIA MASTERS LTD
Tel: 868-355-5769/ 271-7037 Email: mediamastersltd@gmail.com web: www.mediamastersltd.com
Supporting Local Artisans
localizeittt - follow us on
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A TIME & PLACE LIKE NO OTHER
2020 started off with great expectations, we
obtained new leads in the development of the local market and amazing new opportunities to expand the Localize-it brand since it’s inception in November 2019. We extended our services to promote various businesses pro bono for the past few months through our social media pages. Tremendous new business relationships were ignited and as we anticipated, our local artisans needed all the help they could get in trying to sustain their way of life in managing their small business. We pushed our marketing campaign forward to bring awareness of the Localize-it brand and purpose far and wide. The journey has been a progressively positive one thus far, as we collaborated with new companies and continue to work as affiliate partners with others in developing a stronger local brand.
As preparations for Carnival 2020 commenced, it was business as usual in Trinidad & Tobago. However the rest of the world started to experience the emergence of a new strain of Coronavirus called COVID-19 . Most artisans had plans to present their products at scheduled Up-Markets after the Carnival season, but to everyone’s dismay Trinidad and Tobago recorded its first case of COVID-19 on the 12th March 2020, followed by another case the following day. The days that followed had an increasing number of cases which led to the indefinite closure of schools and businesses nationwide, citizens were also asked to stay at home. The entire world faced a global pandemic and life as we knew it started to take a change for the worst, or did it? Steadfastly as we continue to adjust to this new way of life, one can only hope for the best. which brings a famous saying to mind ... “You never miss the water until the well runs dry.”
M.M - Thavenot LOCALIZE IT tour guide
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TEAM CREDITS
Contributors Kimberly Inglis
Kimberly is a freelance writer from Trinidad and holds a Bachelor's degree in Spanish with a minor in Linguistics. Through her writing she hopes to educate, inspire and entertain. Check out her blog at www.extensionofexpression.com
Natasha Carlow
Natasha Carlow is a Counsellor, Author and Blogger who writes passionately about family and life after loss. In her spare time she enjoys trying new recipes on Pinterest.
Verena Siblal Boodoosingh
Verena is a freelance writer and an author. She wrote for various local newspapers and Magazines, such as the Newsday Woman’s Magazine, The Guardian, and Caribbean Runway. Currently, Verena is a content writer for a leading financial institution in the Caribbean.
Angel Harrt
Mother, Sister, Thickie, Body Love Coach and Advocate, Self Published Author, Insta @bodyuptt and @angel_the_author. Photography credit:insta @faculty.films (Kwende Edwards).
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DO YOU
LOVE LOCAL?
localizeittt
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Cover Artist
Pink Boat Studios
Fine Art and Nostalgic souvenirs
Meet Zaidee Walker, the artist behind the cover of
Localize-it Magazine May issue. Her local art portfolio captured our attention as it reflected the pure and natural beauty of our twin islands. The creative duo belonging to Pink Boat Studios, which is a collaborative team consisting of Photographer- Patrice Sadaphal and Artist- Zaidee Walker working together towards the same goal... to bring the viewer beautiful photography and artwork inspired by the landscape and culture of Trinidad and Tobago and to support their customers’ mental wellbeing through their images. Both Sadaphal and Walker have a passion for capturing the idyllic island life of Trinidad and Tobago. This is how Pink Boat Studios came to life! Together they go on road trips to locations all over Trinidad and Tobago, capturing photos and painting from them to bring stunning scenes to various homes and workplaces. Their clientele is both local and international as their artwork now adorns the homes and offices of clients in Paris, London, Spain, Florida, Barbados, St. Lucia, and of course Trinidad and Tobago.
Zaidee Walker
Patrice Sadaphal
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e
-Commerce
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ONLINE SALES IN THE CARIBBEAN BY KIMBERLY INGLIS
E-commerce refers to the buying
and selling of goods or services online. We’re no strangers to websites such as Amazon and eBay which allow us to shop from the comfort of our homes. More recently, we’ve even grown used to the idea of booking rideshare services online. What about e-commerce on a regional level? Well, The Archipelago Online Trading Company has produced the region's first multi-link e-commerce platform: ecaribbeanonline.com
This e-commerce platform is an online marketplace where users can enjoy the experience of:
• Seamless and instantaneous shopping • Advertising • The ability to develop storefronts specifically designed to showcase local products and services
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Their goal hinges on the brand’s message, ‘Buy Local, Sell Global’ as they strive to foster the development of small businesses to enable local buying and global selling. Their intention is also to promote entrepreneurism and small businesses by allowing unrestricted information on the products and services that are available for sale by individuals and companies thereby reducing strain on FOREX. It’s definitely a great initiative and a step in the right direction. If you’re interested in finding out which goods and services are offered via the platform or you’d like to join as a vendor or supplier then be sure to head over to the website at www.ecaribbeanonline.com
EASY SHOPPING
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Natural Caribbean Teas
Pure • natural •honest
NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE @ecaribbeanonline.com 9
Inspiration with
Inks
Tina Holley is a self-taught alcohol ink
artist since 2018. She expresses her love for this type of medium through her work. “I started out making my own alcohol inks from markers and isopropyl, but currently most of my collection are brand based inks from various makers.� Tina started her journey using a special type of paper called yupo (which is made from polypropylene) and canvas for her art, her current range of products include tiles for coasters and PVC for a range of table and wall decor.
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“
I LOVE ALCOHOL INKS FOR A FEW REASONS, MAINLY, THE INKS HAVE A MIND OF THEIR OWN, AND WHILE YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO MANIPULATE THEM, YOU HAVE TO GO WITH THEIR FLOW.
”
Tina’s artwork has been applied to different finished products, namely cushions, handbags, shoes, ceramics, and much more. Tina deeply expressed her passion for her work, “My work is purely therapeutic and abstract in nature. While I do give some insight as to my emotions and thoughts of what goes into a finished piece, I encourage customers to connect with the artwork on their own levels, whether it evokes an emotion or if it’s a simple connection to the colours that enhance their living space.” To view more of Tina’s work
follow her page on FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM.
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Do you have what it takes to become your
own boss? BY KIMBERLY INGLIS
While previous generations valued job security
and stability, millennials crave meaning at their jobs. They want flexible working hours and a healthy work-life balance. It’s no surprise then that the idea of being your own boss is especially attractive among millennials. A golden rule of entrepreneurship is identifying a gap in the market then providing an ideal product or service to fill that need, but that’s not all it takes. While it’s no easy task, it has been shown that having the following qualities will work to your advantage:
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CREATIVITY
Formulating and executing a successful business idea takes creativity. As the business grows, this level of innovation will also prove to be invaluable in an evolving market.
SELF-DISCIPLINE
This is especially essential in setting and achieving your long term and short term business goals. This helps to eliminate distractions, setting your focus on what needs to be done.
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CONFIDENCE
How can you get anyone to believe in your business and support your ideas if you don’t? Be humble but exude confidence in all that you do.
INTEGRITY
Practice integrity in promoting a business that consumers can trust. An honest reputation will propel your business for years to come.
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If you’ve been considering becoming your own boss, don’t think that you’re too young to start. You don’t need to have it all figured out; jot down ideas and make plans. Even working to develop these qualities will already give you a headstart.
PERSISTENCE
Running a business takes a great deal of hard work. There will be difficulties, mistakes and trials but persistence and a driven attitude will get you through.
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Rhonda Maria Glynn Chief Disruption Officer
Rhonda is an internationally certified instructor/trainer, with over 29 years working experience in the aviation industry. She holds a MSc. in Aviation Management from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus and a BSc. in Security Administration and Management from the Cipriani College of Labour. At present she’s pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at the Arthur Lok Jack School of Global Business. She has also worked as a national security analyst, attached to the Integrated Threat Assessment Center, Office of the Prime Minister, and as an adjunct lecturer with the Caribbean Institute of Security and Public Safety.
A quality-focused professional, Rhonda believes that people, performance and process, are the most essential qualities of innovative and successful companies. In 2018 she started Zoma Business Solutions, a business consultancy based in Trincity. The company believes that “The future is now� - and that technology is the vanguard of major change. With this in mind the company works with small, medium and micro businesses and startups providing help and guidance in the area of business processes, through targeted training programs, workshops, 1:1 coaching, business planning and entrepreneur-based events. In her down time, she enjoys taking care of her dogs and is an avid fan of Discovery Turbo. Rhonda can be contacted at 1(868)460-4158, at Rhonda@zoma.solutions or via the company website www.zoma.solutions
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In our shared history, we have all grown
up around female entrepreneurs-even when they weren't referred to as such.... the lady who took in washing and/or ironing, the lady who planted short crops and took her produce to market, the village seamstress who made all the school uniforms, sports gear, brownie kits, and wedding dresses... the ladies who made fruit cakes, jams and jellies and even those who sold pies, chow, and candy outside the village schools. Whether by necessity or profession, these were our first "Fempreneurs"; the "original boss-babes." The Global Entrepreneurship Report (2017/2018) states, "women entrepreneurs make a significant contribution toward the growth and well-being of their societies and offering them more targeted support will pay dividends for economic development in any country."- GEM Executive Director Mike Herrington. But we keep missing our opportunities to become “mompreneurs” and “fempreneurs” simply because we keep passing on our opportunities to be great.
How do we remain cognizant of our market and so make the leap into business?
Become aware of the changes in your environment for example, "what's trending in your neck of the woods?" For one, there's a huge market for handmade items - ideal for those who make jewelry and accessories; There's a huge push globally towards "Wellness" This translates as soaps, body oils, ancillary skincare products, candles, and aromatherapy products; Despite the rise of global supply and demand- there's still an opportunity to serve a diaspora market- allowing for economies of scale, especially for those who still want to serve a niche market. Technology has now become both accessible and affordable- which allows almost anyone to build a customer base from anywhere - with a modest cash outlay you can literally become a mogul in your PJs. Opportunities are all around you. Keep your eyes open and prepare yourself to take advantage of all avenues for economic activity - Training, workshops, podcasts, coaching sessions. Additionally, read as much as you can about your industry. Who knows, the "next big thing" could be YOU!!!
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SUSTAINABLE Living Solutions BY KIMBERLY INGLIS
Sustainable living involves the practice of reducing one’s demand on natural resources. The idea is to meet our current needs without compromising the next generation's ability to satisfy their own. Many think that drastic changes have to be made in order for this to become a reality, truth is, there are small steps we can all take to do our part. The food industry is one area in which we can all take advantage of our natural resources and reduce the dependency on foreign imports.
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HERE ARE SOME SUSTAINABLE LIVING SUGGESTIONS AS RELATES TO FOOD: EAT LOCAL
Support local farmers and frequent green markets to boost the local economy.
Incorporate local fruits and vegetables into your diet which lessens dependence and demand for imported food.
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REDUCE MEAT Reduce meat consumption, thereby lessening the strain on the environment.
HOMEM
local Products
A
DE
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SHOP LOCAL
PLANT If you are really adventurous - Try growing some of your own foods, it’s worth a try!
Some will tend to argue that too much damage has already been done by global warming or a huge carbon footprint, but even if some damage is irreversible, we can at least strive to slow down future damage in certain areas.
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Essential Oils
Nature’s way of healing What are essential Oils? Unique aromatic compounds of a plant extracted by steaming or pressing parts such as (flowers, bark, leaves or fruit).
What are essential Oils used for? The application of essential oils or Aromatherapy has increased in recent years. There is a growing body of evidence in scientific literature suggesting that plant essential oils are used as the major therapeutic agents to treat several diseases. According to the (Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine: Volume 5, Issue 8, August 2015) “Inhalation, local application and baths are the major methods used in aromatherapy that utilize these oils to penetrate the human skin surface with marked aura.”
How to use essential oils? When using essential oils on the skin, use with caution as it is recommended to use a carrier to carry it across and through the skin to the circulatory system. That’s where the oils are carried to all systems and cells of the body. Essential oils are very concentrated and it takes very few drops to make a dramatic effect. A standard dilution is 10 drops of essential oil in 1 oz of carrier. When making a blend for the elderly or very young children, always dilute with more carrier oil as a precaution.
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TYPES OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND USES LA VE ND ER
(Lavandula officinalis Chaix.)
Treats abrasions, burns, stress, headaches, in promotion of new cell growth, skin problems, painful muscles and boosting your immune system.
CL AR Y SA GE
(Salvia sclarea Linn.)
Used to ease tension and muscle cramps can be used for both dry and oily skin, along with acne, wrinkles and for controlling cellulite.
TEA TR EE
(Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel)
The tea tree oil possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, insecticidal, and immune stimulant properties. The oil is used in herpes, abscess, blisters acne, cold sores, burns, insect bites, dandruff and oily skin. Other treatments for respiratory problems such as tuberculosis, cough, bronchitis, asthma, catarrh and whooping cough.
EU CA LYP TU S
(Eucalyptus globulus Labill)
Regulates the nervous system, treats throat infections, catarrh, coughs, asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. It has antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties and researchers have proved its efficacy in the treatment of various metabolic and infectious diseases. * information supported by Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicin
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Natural Beauty THE ORGANIC ALTERNATIVE
Before venturing into the topic of an industry that has boomed and continues to flourish, in the past five years, let's first define the difference in natural and organic ingredients that would be used in products we frequent. Basically natural ingredients or anything taken from the soil or ground and used as is. It may include enhanced growth chemicals or other artificial chemicals in growth but not in the creation of the product. Organic ingredients however, are totally free from enhancers, pesticides and any artificial chemicals that could be used in growing them. This can be distinguishable by the size of the plant, vegetable or animal grown free of chemicals. Now that we have a handle on what's organic to what's natural, let's take a closer look at the budding industry, especially in our fair country Trinidad and Tobago.
by ANGEL HART
As we see the rise of cost of living, we have noticed an increase in entrepreneurs where some are leaning to the natural product industry. We are slowly creating artisans with a specialty for skin and health care products. 20
Share the beauty of nature! While the artisans are presenting their works using many of the popular social media platforms, consumers are opting for the natural products that concise with being eco friendly. But why we may ask? With products being eco friendly we are saving the planet. We are creating biodegradable items that won't hurt our surroundings. We are also creating products that are easier on the skin, gives longer results and even last longer in use.
Have you done the switch yet? No longer are we using skin creams, or face powder that are not considered a healthier option. The abrasiveness is gone, leaving a soothing feel on our, dare I say it, natural skin. Trinbagonian artisans are using our local plants, fusing them in the most creative ways, with an ending that meshes culture and creativity to produce household products. What we are seeing is pure genius. Our local talent are budding beauty reps, and their listing includes skin, hair, face and even feminine products. Each focusing on using the chemical free method in their production. Have you done the switch yet? Are you a naturalista or a chemical consumer? SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICES on these natural skincare items by De Jeunesse on ecaribbeanonline.com
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5 ways to keep busy while under COVID-19 lockdown By Kimberly Inglis
The onset of the COVID-19 virus and the circumstances surrounding it are undoubtedly sad and less than favourable. Nonetheless, while we do our part to flatten the curve by staying at home, we can find ways to take advantage of the extra time.
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FI���H ���JE��S ���U�D ��� H�U��
1
Get around to scratching things off that seemingly endless to-do list. Whether it’s something that has to be fixed or an area that just needs an uplift, now’s the time to get it done. Depending on the nature of the project, YouTube is great for getting ideas and step by step tutorials.
DO �� ��LI�� ��UR��
2
There are websites such as coursera.com where you can access free courses. Take the time to improve professionally or even learn more about topics that pique your interest. The best part is being able to work at your own pace.
ES���L��� AN ����CI�� ��UT���
3
Without the constraints of busy schedules, you can now establish an exercise routine. Many free videos are available online for various fitness levels. Try to establish your routine at a time that may best fit into your regular schedule once the time comes.
GE� � ��S�I��
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Use your time to do that hobby you’ve always wanted to start, the kitchen garden you’re dreaming of or the pastime that you’ve since abandoned.
HA�� ��ME ���
Do activities that will help you relax and make you happy. Watch movies, talk with friends via video chat, rebuild an old puzzle, play board games you haven’t seen in ages. If you have children, find ways to involve them as well. Most of all just have fun.
Thi� ��� s�a�l ���s, ��� un��� t��� ke�� ��cu����.
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Taking back
CHILDHOOD By Natasha Carlow
My three year old didn’t know what a thumb was. Growing up in the height of the ‘finger family’ blitz, he referred to it as his ‘daddy’ finger. It’s funny because he truly did not know better. It’s terrifying because even though I thought I knew better, I allowed influences into my home that have significantly shaped my children’s development. While as a child, I spent hours soaking up the sun and day dreaming, my children spend a lot of their time on YouTube. While I was learning to play moral, cricket and boy/girl/animal/thing/place/tv-show with my friends, arguing but resolving conflicts in real time, my children will be cyber bullied by strangers for having a difference in opinion.
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AS A CHILD, I SPENT HOURS SOAKING UP THE SUN AND DAY DREAMING.
”
Theirs is a world that is different from the one I grew up in I cannot control that, but I can control the T.V. remote. I can take back Saturdays by drawing uneven boxes on the ground and playing hopscotch. I can teach them patience by making plum chow and burying it in the ground for 2 weeks. And I can help them de-stress by lying flat on their backs, while watching the clouds take shape above them. Childhood is fleeting but it isn’t too late to take it back.
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Natasha Carlow
Local kids story books
Natasha Carlow is a first time author and
longtime lover of the written word. Natasha is a graduate of the University of the West Indies and works as an Itinerant Counsellor and Lecturer. She resides in Trinidad and Tobago with her husband and two preschoolers. Her first book, Happy Tears and Rainbow Babies tells the story of how faith brought healing and hope to one family after the pain and loss of a miscarriage. Written from a mother to her children, this story engages the reader in a conversation that families everywhere can share and benefit from. Natasha is a contributing writer for Pregnancy After Loss Support,(PALS) an online magazine to families who are expecting after experiencing miscarriage, still birth and child loss. She also works as a local ambassador for PALS working with local families experiencing loss. You can follow Natasha’s blog Mother Two Rainbows at natashacarlow.com or on Facebook at Natasha Carlow Author or in Instagram at natashamelissacarlow and twitter @natasha_carlow
Verena Siblal Boodoosingh
Verena is a former TV Host /journalist and has
over 12 years experience in the media and public relations arena. Verena holds a Master of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of Leicester, England and specialized in Public Relations. In addition, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, and International Relations from The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. In July 2016, she launched her first book in her children’s series, called The Adventures of Ana and Her Magic Dogs – My country Trinidad and Tobago. In 2017, she launched the second book in the series The Lost Flying Fish. Presently, Verena is working on her first fantasy novel, which will be published in September 2020. I am a very patriotic individual and naturally I wanted my daughter to inherit this trait. I have carefully designed this text to teach my own daughter some of the most important lessons all local children should know. After I finished writing the story I reached out to pre-school teachers for feedback, and the responses were phenomenal.
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COOKING my mother’s love language By Natasha Carlow
Growing up we didn’t have a lot, so my mother had to get creative when it came to
feeding us. She was the consummate home-maker ensuring we had home cooked meals daily. I remember displaying her food creations to my classmates who were equally in awe and repulsed that I thought beetroot was food to be consumed. My mother learned how to make healthier, home-made versions of all our favorite things – ice cream, preservatives, baked goods and fried chicken. Anything made by her hand rivaled the ones that were mass produced. Now that I am a mother of two young children, it breaks my heart that I have failed to carry on my mother’s proud tradition of fearlessly creating her own versions of popular foods. Although I do cook regularly for my family, I am not half the cook she was. But I am starting to try. Childhood obesity, NCDs and a global health scare have made it so that homemade is not only better but essential. Cooking was how my mother showed her love and that is a tradition that I intend to embrace completely.
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Small steps can make a BIG difference! Abbytopia of Hope was formed after I realized my daughter's desire to bring about change both to the less fortunate and to the animals in the ocean. From a very young age, Abigail has displayed kindness, humbleness, and love. All kids are special in their own way, her's is caring a little more! for her environment and others. We decided to form Abbytopia of Hope so we can reach out to others by assisting less fortunate kids, and to bring awareness to children between the age group of 4-12. AOH educates children on Marine life and Conservation, this is our main goal. In executing this goal we offer our Oceanography camp and have begun producing locally-made beeswax wraps which eliminate the use of plastic wraps, foil, Ziploc, and other single-use kitchen plastic items. We also developed 2 educational alphabet charts which feature endangered animals and bookmarks which exclusively features T&T marine life.
Our mission is to plant seeds of hope to the future generations. In doing so we hope to bring the much-required awareness to our beautiful marine diversity that Trinidad and Tobago have to offer. We hope to bring about awareness to future generation mainly because the plastic pollution we are facing now will directly affect their generation. Abby has a passion to tell her peers that single-use plastic is dangerous. She also practices not using single-use plastic and eliminating her carbon footprint as much as she can. At her tender age of 7, she has already executed tree planting events, beach cleans ups, and educating as many persons as she can about single-use plastic. Abby aspires to become a Marine Biologist, a Captain of a ship, and a chef. She wishes to tell her peers that they can do anything they dream of once they believe in themselves. Together with the much needed help of sponsors Abbytopia of Hope can bring their dreams to life with the projects that they have planned for Trinidad & Tobago.
Follow us on social media @abbytopiatt
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K ‘s
Sweet
Expressions
K’s Sweet Expressions is an online, small
business owned and run by Kimberly Inglis. It focuses on supplying sweetly irresistible desserts and treats such as cupcakes, brownies and cookies. What really sets this business apart are the delectable shortbread cookies called alfajores. Alfajores originated in South America and are sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche (caramel), rolled in desiccated coconut and sprinkled with icing sugar. To date, they continue to be the most popular order.
After operating for a little over a year, Kimberly secured her first deal for retail sales in June 2019 when Rustic and Blue, a gourmet store on Mucurapo Road, agreed to sell her alfajores. Given the love for the product, she reached out to other retailers and since October 2019 has also been selling alfajores at Brick Lane Cafe, a coffee shop in West Hills, Petit Valley. She added, “Running a side-hustle while working full-time is NOT easy. Baking, while enjoyable, is also very time intensive. I’m extremely thankful for those who continually support me and allow my business to grow.” Please follow on Facebook at ‘K’s Sweet Expressions’ and Instagram @sweetexpressionstt
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Lemon pound cake with lemon glaze.
TRINI COOKING with
Natasha Ingredients:
1/2 cup soft butter 1 cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs or 1 cup apple sauce juice from 1 lemon 1/2 tsp lemon extract or essence 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or essence 1/4 cup mayo or apple sauce 1 lemon zested 1 1/2 cups sifted AP flour 1/4 tsp baking soda 1/8 tsp cinnamon or pumpkin spice 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking powder Icing 1 cup sifted icing sugar 1 tbsp. whole milk 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 tsp lemon extract --Buttered and floured loaf pan
Method: 1. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 2. Add in eggs one at a time until incorporated. 3. Add in mayo, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and then mix. 4. Mix in half of flour, when it comes together add other half of flour and mix in. 5. Pour into greased and floured pan. 6. Bake at 350 deg for 40 mins then test with a toothpick and see if it comes out clean. 7. Set cake aside to cool completely when done. 8. Mix all ingredients in a bowl for the icing. 9. Pour over the cake to coat. 10. Allow to set and firm up. 11. Cut, serve and enjoy.
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SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC By Kimberly Inglis We all understand that in order to stop the spread of Covid-19 and flatten the curve, we must comply with the regulations regarding quarantine and social distancing. On the other hand, many businesses are experiencing great losses as a result of fewer customers, having to operate in a limited capacity or being closed. Here are 3 ways we can support local business during this pandemic:
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1
Order online
2
Promote on social media
3
Many businesses are currently offering the option to place orders online or by phone for pick up or delivery. This is especially evident for food businesses where apps such as Hello Food and Food DROP have grown in popularity. You continue to access your favourite products and services while supporting local businesses; it’s a win-win.
With the closure of non-essential services, specific businesses remain closed while others did so for their safety and that of their workers. In these instances, you can still support through promotions. Social media is a powerful tool and it’s easy to share various pictures, videos and posts.
Take advantage of creative offers
Covid-19 has forced many business owners to get creative. Keep an eye out for great deals and support local especially small business owners who may face even greater challenges. For example, in light of mass cancellations, some photographers are offering discounted prices for advanced bookings.
These suggestions may not seem like much but continue to support when you can, because a little goes a long way. 31
PREVENTION is BETTER than the CURE.
By Kimberly Inglis 32
CURBING
THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
As many of us know, the coronavirus is
The number of new cases will drop significantly.
spread when respiratory droplets from an infected individual come in contact with another person’s eyes, nose or mouth. Dr. Jonas Sharma, a family doctor in the Philipines shared a video giving his tips for curbing the spread of COVID-19. He suggested that everyone wear a face mask together with quarantine and social distancing to prevent the spread of droplets from one person to another. Due to increased demand, there’s now a worldwide shortage of masks. Nonetheless, many small business owners have opted to make and sell masks and there are also tutorials online showing how masks can be made at home. Dr. Sharma highlighted the following benefits to be derived from wearing face masks: .
Once the number of cases drops, the healthcare system will not be overcrowded and will be better able to administer adequate treatment. The need for anti-viral medications will decrease which is beneficial as they can be expensive and may also cause adverse side effects.
After considering the aforementioned points, we should all be urged to continue doing our part to stop the spread of the coronavirus and as Dr. Sharma mentioned in his video in reference to previous pandemics, “Let’s not repeat history but learn from it.” We should also pay close attention to the Ministry of Health and follow the guidelines on curbing the spread of COVID-19 .
Fleur
DESIGNS
Quality custom designed ladies apparel Specializing in:
• Ladies Jackets, dresses, skirts, pants • Office uniforms • Aprons, face masks
Visit us @fleurdesignstt
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Shopping
Local By Kimberly Inglis
When we think of supporting local business our minds gravitate towards the economic benefits. However, there are also environmental advantages to buying local.
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Decreased Carbon Footprint
The transport involved in getting imported goods from their point of origin to the destination country requires the use of a lot of fossil fuels. These fossil fuels release greenhouse gases that harm the environment. When we shop locally, this drastically reduces our carbon footprint. Don’t be tempted to adopt a nonchalant attitude because your choice to buy locally seems insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Every bit counts and it’s definitely a step in the right direction.
Less Pollution
Local producers pride themselves on keeping their product organic, hormone free and pesticide free. Not only is this beneficial to the consumer, it’s also beneficial to the environment. Keeping harmful toxins, like pesticides, out of the air helps to improve crops and air quality.
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Locally-grown food generally contains less chemicals, even if it’s not organic, because these foods are grown in such a smaller-size batch than big companies. Smaller farms and businesses don’t need to put as much time and effort into concerns such as packaging issues, shipping issues, and even longevity. The main focus, instead, is growing and distributing the product.
Protects Local Land and Wildlife
Buying local also helps to protect local lands and wildlife. With your support, local farmers are able to stay in operation and land isn't simply being sold to major developers. Very often, these developers completely transform the land, devastating the wildlife that calls it home. Big business producers also buy out the farm and incorporate inhumane and non-eco-friendly farming practices. It’s understood that some of our preferred food choices aren’t easily grown locally or not grown at all. With that in mind, the next time you do have a choice between locally grown and imported goods, consider the advantages of buying local.
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Fresh Produce at your fingertips
Looking to buy Fresh Produce easily? Here are a few busineses offering curb side pick up or delivery service: • Green Market Santa Cruz • d’ Market Movers • Namdevco Farmers Market • Harvest 2 Home Premium Produce • Green Thumb Growers TT • Garden To Home Fresh Produce
• The Fresh Basket • Green Market Farms Ltd • Upick Farm • Farm Fresh Foods • Akhdir Hydro Farms • Farm to Fam
Support LOCAL farmers
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Share the beauty of nature!
one...two...TEA!
Time to try our local Teas today.
Now available on ecaribbeanonline.com 38
HOme MAde
Granola INGREDIENTS
METHOD
3 cups rolled oats 1/2 cup sesame seeds 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds 1/4 cup cranberry 1/2 cup crushed pecans 1/2 cup crushed cashews 1/4 cup cold press coconut oil 1/4 cup honey 1tbs cinnamon powder
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Celcius, prepare a large oven tray and grease with coconut oil in preparation for the final mix. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients together. Pour coconut oil and honey to dry ingredients and mix well. Pour mixture onto the prepared tray and flatten out evenly to give ample space for baking. Place the tray with granola in the oven and bake for 15-20 mins, making sure it has a golden color. Take the baking tray out of the oven and let it cool properly before serving. The cooled granola can then be stored in an airtight glass bottle to keep its freshness.
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5 Easy ways to
Keep your business Alive During A LOCKDOWN
Think
By Verena Siblal Boodoosingh
COVID-19 has changed the world as we know it. It's tempting to jump ship facing the uncharted territory. However, it's vital to alter your perception. Look at this time as a transitional period for your company to become more efficient and innovative. Here are five tips to help you stay alive:
S
S
1. REFLECT WITHIN: Use this time to pivot your company into the future. Revisit your company goals. Find ways to innovate and become efficient. Assess your finances and trim down on your overheads. For example, if your factory is closed, use this time to revamp your website or develop your social media content. Become the virtual company you need to be to survive.
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smart
2. ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE: Ask your banks and suppliers for deferrals. Ask your landlord for a courtesy extension to pay the rent. Or ask for professional help to manage your finances wisely. Our local government is also offering a variety of stimulus packages, so keep on the lookout. 3. BECOME THE CHAMELEON TO SURVIVE: Adapt to remote work. Organize your remote work with Skype calls, hangouts meetings. Implement project management software to monitor productivity and to achieve efficiency.
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4. STAY VISIBLE: Out of sight out of mind, so it's important to stay visible. Build your Brand Equity. Stay connected and active with clients through various digital channels. 5. BRING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE: Listen to your customers and identify how their needs and habits have changed. Diversify your business or offer a new service (e.g. consultancy services). It's challenging to find a solution that can fit all, but let's try to change our outlook into a positive one. Develop strategies that can help you adapt and evolve. 41
The Private By Mee Mee Thavenot
Art
collection
As I walked through the doors of the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) on the 23rd, January 2020, I stumbled upon an amazing discovery of local artists. My original mission was to capture selected local artisans showcasing their work to Carnival visitors, however to my surprise, I also saw local art being displayed by various artists. As I inquired about the spectacular pieces of art I was informed that this amazing show was curated by Stephanie Johnson; the objective was to promote the local art of Trinidad and Tobago. The artists present were filled with joy and excitement as this was a great opportunity for their work to be shown to an international audience. Stephanie has been curating private shows since 1998 with the intent to showcase unseen pieces of art by various artists. The team of selected artists for this event was: Judith Shaw - Oil on canvas Debbie May-Jardine - Bleach art watercolor Kerry Collins - Oil on canvas Teja Loutoo - Mixed media Oral Vidale - Pencils Carnival visitors enjoyed a wonderful show by our local artists. What a wonderful memory for them to take back home from our Caribbean island.
Teja Loutoo
Judith Shaw
Kerry Collins
Oral Vidale
Debbie May-Jardin
From the left: Stephanie Johnson, Oral Vidale, Debbie May-Jardin and Judith Shaw.
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Trini
Talent
THis Issue we feature a talented local Guitarist
Stefan Roach
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Share the beauty of nature!
OUR HOME ...OUR OWN! Do you support local?
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