Award: Young Visionary Award
Award Description: Recognizing a young individual whose business demonstrates a strong vision for the future and shows potential for significant growth.
Biographies of Nominees
Lenecia Johnson
Lenecia Johnson is a motivated and creative professional, with experience in office administration, customer service, and the creative arts. She holds an Associate Degree in Office Administration from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College and several CXC O’Level passes.
Her work spans administrative and customer service roles at organizations such as Articles Gallery and Gift Shop, VINSURE, Olin Dennie’s Law Firm, Searchlight Newspaper, Oriental Palace, the Inland Revenue Department, and the National Public Library. She is also the owner of Illusette Ato and has represented her craft internationally through the UN Women SIDS Conference MSME Expo and UNESCO’s Transcultura Programme in Sicily.
Lenecia is passionate about creativity and self-expression, with interests in dancing, singing, crafting, drawing, and writing.
Canyon Duncan
Canyon Duncan is a professional skipper and seafarer from Bequia, with extensive sailing experience across the Caribbean, North America, and the Atlantic. Since 2017, he has captained and crewed monohulls and catamarans ranging from 30ft to 70ft for private owners and charter companies, amassing over 9,500 sea hours and 20,000 nautical miles.
He holds an Associate Degree in Travel and Tourism from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College and multiple RYA and STCW certifications, including Day Skipper, Yachtmaster Prep, VHF/SRC, Professional Practices and Responsibilities, Elementary First Aid, and Sea Survival.
Canyon has worked with several international charter operations, including Barefoot Yacht Charters, RM Croisières, and TradeWinds Yacht Charter, and continues to expand his maritime expertise through professional development and global sailing experience. Beyond sailing, he is also skilled in photography, filmmaking, and hospitality, with accolades in regional film festivals.
Dezmorel Hackshaw
Dezmorel Hackshaw is a dedicated tourism and communications professional, with a strong background in customer service, administration, and media production. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Tourism Management and Business Administration from the National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism in Taiwan, and an Associate Degree in Business Studies from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.
Her experience spans roles in hospitality, education, and tourism, serving as a Receptionist at the SVG Bureau of Standards, English Teacher in Taiwan, and currently as a Content Creator at the SVG Tourism Authority, where she contributes to national tourism marketing initiatives and event coverage.
Dezmorel also holds multiple CROSQ, WTO, and hospitality management certifications and has been recognized for her excellence in communication, leadership, and service. Fluent in English with basic Mandarin proficiency, she is passionate about promoting tourism, storytelling, and cultural exchange through media and creative engagement.
China Primus
China Primus is an innovative and eco-conscious swimsuit designer from Cane Garden, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the founder of Ching Ling Designs. With over seven years of experience, she has built a brand celebrated for merging aesthetics with sustainability—creating swimwear that is both striking and environmentally responsible.
A UWI Cave Hill graduate with a BSc in Accounting (2021), China blends creativity and business insight to grow her brand. Since launching Ching Ling Designs in 2017, her work has gained international recognition, featuring in events like Culturama in Nevis, SMX Caribbean Carnival in St. Maarten, and Vincy Mas.
Recognized by Karibbean Kollective and artist Shenseea as one of the region’s leading designers, her designs have been featured in Cacique Magazine and showcased by influencers such as Kevisha Greaves. Beyond fashion, China is passionate about mentorship, sharing her expertise through the LOUD program and local fashion workshops.
Driven by creativity, ethics, and empowerment, China Primus continues to redefine Caribbean swimwear with purpose and style.
Solange Fernandez
Solange La Fleur Noella Fernandez is a hospitality professional from St. Vincent and the Grenadines with an Associate Degree in Hospitality Studies Management from the SVG Community College (DTVE). She has worked in various roles, including Customer Contact Lead Agent at Argyle International Airport, Front Desk Receptionist at Mariners Hotel, and Teacher through the SET Program.
Recognized for her organization and professionalism, Solange excels in customer service, communication, and leadership. She has served as PTA President at the Colonarie Early Childhood Centre and is active in youth and church initiatives. Combining creativity, hospitality expertise, and a passion for community service, Solange continues to make a positive impact in every role she undertakes.
Glenroy Jacobs
Glenroy Jacobs is a results-driven entrepreneur, automotive importer, and field service technician from Richland Park, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with a strong background in technology, business management, and customer service. As the Owner and Manager of GJ’s Auto Imports, he has over three years of experience in the auto import industry, overseeing business operations, supplier negotiations, client relations, and vehicle sourcing. His commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction has earned him a reputation as one of the island’s most trusted importers.
In addition to his entrepreneurial work, Glenroy serves as a Field Service Technician at Flow SVG, where he installs and maintains telecommunications systems and networks, ensuring reliable service and strong client relationships. Known for his discipline, innovation, and community involvement, he also supports youth development through local cricket programs as both a player and coach.
Driven by passion and professionalism, Glenroy Jacobs continues to excel in both the automotive and technology sectors, combining technical skill with entrepreneurial vision to deliver outstanding service and value.
Myia Fraser
Myia Fraser is a dynamic entrepreneur from Argyle, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with over five years of experience in business management and hospitality. As the Owner and Manager of Jos Bar & Grill, she has successfully built and operated one of the area’s popular dining establishments, overseeing all aspects of operations including sales, marketing, bookkeeping, and team leadership.
A graduate of the SVG Community College with an Associate Degree in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, Myia combines strong business acumen with creativity and customer focus. Passionate about excellence and innovation, Myia Fraser continues to make her mark as a results-oriented businesswoman committed to quality service and sustainable growth in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Nakeisha James
Nakeisha N. James is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience in tax administration and compliance, currently serving as a Tax Officer I at the Inland Revenue Department in Kingstown, St. Vincent. She supports small business owners in understanding their tax obligations while fostering accountability and transparency.
As a Founder and Business Owner since 2014, Nakeisha has successfully launched and managed multiple businesses, focusing on sustainable models and community impact. She mentors aspiring entrepreneurs in business planning, registration, and operations, and has been recognized through the Women Empowerment Project and the PYME Grant Program.
Nakeisha holds a Bachelor's certificate in Human Resource Management and is currently pursuing a BSc in Entrepreneurship. She combines expertise in tax compliance, business development, financial management, and leadership to empower individuals and promote local economic growth.
