Derek Walcott Square came alive on Friday as the Youth Economy Agency (YEA) hosted its second annual Marketplace, turning the historic space into a vibrant showcase of Saint Lucia’s young entrepreneurial talent.
Forty youth-led businesses set up shop, offering everything from artisanal treats to creative handcrafted products, while receiving strong public support and a boost from international partners.
Business Development Officer at the YEA, Olivia JnBaptiste, said the event reflected the agency’s mission in action.
“The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing how the youth economy has taken a client from point A to point B,” she explained. Walking through the showcase, she said she noticed tangible improvements across the board.
“A lot of the clients have improved as far as their branding is concerned. I see they have upped their packaging as well. So that makes me feel fulfilled and it makes me feel that the Youth Economy Agency is doing something right.”
JnBaptiste said the agency’s investment in training has helped sharpen participants’ presentation marketing skills.
“Last year, we did a digital marketing training program with the clients and we taught them how to create flyers, to incorporate branding in the small businesses. And I could say that we are seeing that paying off today with some of the exhibitors.”
Adding to the momentum was a special visit from Taiwanese Ambassador Nicole Su, who spent time exploring the booths and sampling the products.
“This is very exciting because all the booths have very fascinating products,” she said. “I just bought a cupcake and then earlier on I had some juice. Really, really great.”
She praised the creativity and skill on display, noting, “We have a lot of talent here. I saw some handicrafts and so on. A lot of talent that we need to showcase to our clients and make sure that people know how talented our young entrepreneurs are.”
The Marketplace forms part of the YEA’s broader effort to create new economic pathways for Saint Lucia’s youth, giving them visibility, mentorship, and hands-on experience in building sustainable businesses.