The 2018 National Awards of the Saint Lucia Industrial and Small Business Association (SLISBA), was held last weekend.

The awards, which focused on inspiring creativity and innovation for national development among the small business industry, was a joint collaboration between SLISBA and the Community Engagement Office of the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF).

The initiative was also used as a marketing platform to sensitize and encourage young entrepreneurs and small businesses that are not registered with SLISBA to join and enjoy the many perks and opportunities for further growth and development within the business economy of Saint Lucia and the wider region.

Over 38 categories were recognized with an attempt to highlight several unsung heroes, like the Coconut Water Vendor of the Year, Shoemaker of the Year, DJ of the Year, Fisherman of the Year, Hairdresser of the Year, and Roadside Vendor of the Year, among others.
The event was celebrated at Morne Coubaril Estate in Soufriere, on Nov. 17.