ABOUT
licia grant
A finance, accounting & business management professional, Licia has over 13 years’ experience in social and economic development projects. She has worked extensively in the management of contracts, relationship building and funding for public and private development projects that focused on commercial portfolio enhancement, social housing, and maintenance of developed areas. Additionally, Licia spent a significant portion of her career in the management of accounts for the operation of MDAs with annual budgets of over $30M.
To complement her prior years’ experience in finance & accounting, she now operates as a Senior Director at the Special Economic Zone Authority with responsibility for business development and stakeholder relationship management. This has seen the portfolio management of Jamaican special economic zone companies with a cumulative worth of over $800M in relationship building and business development. Licia is an enthusiastic reader of fitness & nature-based materials and spends much of her time keeping abreast of emerging business ideas. She is also an avid gardener and operator of radio-controlled vehicles.
To complement her prior years’ experience in finance & accounting, she now operates as a Senior Director at the Special Economic Zone Authority with responsibility for business development and stakeholder relationship management. This has seen the portfolio management of Jamaican special economic zone companies with a cumulative worth of over $800M in relationship building and business development. Licia is an enthusiastic reader of fitness & nature-based materials and spends much of her time keeping abreast of emerging business ideas. She is also an avid gardener and operator of radio-controlled vehicles.
ABOUT
Robert Barcelo
Robert Barcelo was appointed Business (Cargo) Development Manager for Port Everglades on June 9, 2014. He brings diverse ocean carrier knowledge to his endeavor of further developing business thru Port Everglades.
Port Everglades enjoys the benefits of generating revenues of more than $151.7 million in FY2022, as well as the distinction of being a top container port in Florida. During (FY) 2022, the port handled 1.1 million TEUS. Port Everglades is also among the world’s top 3 cruise ports moving an average of 3.9 million passengers annually.
Prior to joining the Port Everglades cargo development team, Robert served as Commercial Manager for Isabella Shipping. He’s held similar commercial and operational managerial positions with various South Florida regional and multi-national ocean carriers. Robert received an Associate Degree in Business Management from Miami-Dade College. He is currently an active participant in various organizations involved in South Florida’s International/domestic transportation and logistics community, including the Florida Custom Brokers & Forwarders Association Board of Directors, the International Fresh Produce Association member and sits on the Business Solution Provider Roundtable, and is a Board Member and sits on the Logistics Department Advisory Board for Florida International University.
Originally from Habana, Cuba, Robert immigrated to the United States along with his family in 1969; he’s been a South Florida dweller since. Robert is an avid basketball and baseball fan and enjoys catching games with his sons and family. He has kept his musical roots alive, and can be seen playing live with his band, 4 On the Floor, throughout many of South Florida’s top live music venues.
Port Everglades enjoys the benefits of generating revenues of more than $151.7 million in FY2022, as well as the distinction of being a top container port in Florida. During (FY) 2022, the port handled 1.1 million TEUS. Port Everglades is also among the world’s top 3 cruise ports moving an average of 3.9 million passengers annually.
Prior to joining the Port Everglades cargo development team, Robert served as Commercial Manager for Isabella Shipping. He’s held similar commercial and operational managerial positions with various South Florida regional and multi-national ocean carriers. Robert received an Associate Degree in Business Management from Miami-Dade College. He is currently an active participant in various organizations involved in South Florida’s International/domestic transportation and logistics community, including the Florida Custom Brokers & Forwarders Association Board of Directors, the International Fresh Produce Association member and sits on the Business Solution Provider Roundtable, and is a Board Member and sits on the Logistics Department Advisory Board for Florida International University.
Originally from Habana, Cuba, Robert immigrated to the United States along with his family in 1969; he’s been a South Florida dweller since. Robert is an avid basketball and baseball fan and enjoys catching games with his sons and family. He has kept his musical roots alive, and can be seen playing live with his band, 4 On the Floor, throughout many of South Florida’s top live music venues.
ABOUT
Jorge Duran
For over 30 years, Mr. Duran has worked with the governments and private sector of the Americas in the design and implementation of development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Since 2003 he has served at the Organization of American States (OAS) as Senior Advisor in Technology for Development, Senior Manager for Municipal Development and Capacity Building, Chief of the Office of Science, Technology and Innovation and, since 2013, as Chief of the Secretariat of the Inter-American Committee on Ports (CIP).
Previously, he was Vice-President of International at the Latin American Institute of Educational Communication (ILCE) in Mexico City (1995-2002); Advisor in Science and Technology Policy for the Presidency of Mexico (1990-1992); Special Assistant to the Mexican Ambassador at the U.N.(1994).Mr. Duran has also been an Associate Professor at the Tecnológico of Monterrey and the Universidad Iberoamericana where he designed and taught courses on history and politics of Latin America.
Mr. Duran has Masters’ Degrees, in International Affairs and Science and Technology Policy, from The George Washington University and a double major in Psychology and Latin American Studies from The American University in Washington DC where he currently resides with his two daughters.
Previously, he was Vice-President of International at the Latin American Institute of Educational Communication (ILCE) in Mexico City (1995-2002); Advisor in Science and Technology Policy for the Presidency of Mexico (1990-1992); Special Assistant to the Mexican Ambassador at the U.N.(1994).Mr. Duran has also been an Associate Professor at the Tecnológico of Monterrey and the Universidad Iberoamericana where he designed and taught courses on history and politics of Latin America.
Mr. Duran has Masters’ Degrees, in International Affairs and Science and Technology Policy, from The George Washington University and a double major in Psychology and Latin American Studies from The American University in Washington DC where he currently resides with his two daughters.
ABOUT
Kelli-Dawn Hamilton
Kelli-Dawn is a distinguished professional with a wealth of expertise in policy development, international trade, public relations, and investment facilitation. Serving as the ChiefExecutive Officer at the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) since November 1, 2023, Kelli-Dawn brings a decade-long track record of excellence in driving organizational success and fostering economic growth.
With her previous role as Director of Investor Relations and Communications at the JSEZA, Kelli-Dawn demonstrated her prowess as an investment facilitator, playing a pivotal role in attracting investments and enhancing communication strategies. Prior to her tenure at the JSEZA, Kelli-Dawn honed her skills at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation, JAMPRO, where she contributed to a range of special projects, research, business development, capacity building, specifically in the services industry and investment promotion.
As a certified Services Go Global Trainer, Kelli-Dawn has been a catalyst for entrepreneurship across the Caribbean Region, empowering local businesses to expand their market base and access overseas markets.Recognized for her adept project management skills, Kelli-Dawn has successfully coordinated and implemented numerous national initiatives, contributing to the advancement of a range of sectors in Jamaica.In addition to her professional commitments, Kelli-Dawn actively contributes to the governance landscape of Jamaica, serving on the Board of Directors of prestigious organizations such as the Spectrum Management Authority of Jamaica, the Jamaica International Financial Services Authority (JIFSA), and the Rural Agricultural Development Agency (RADA).
Kelli-Dawn holds a Master of Science Degree in Comparative Politics and Political Theory, as well as a Bachelor of Science in International Relations with a minor in Political Science, both from the University of the West Indies, Mona. Her academic background, coupled with her extensive practical experience, underscores her commitment to driving socio-economic development and fostering strategic partnerships on a global scale.
With her previous role as Director of Investor Relations and Communications at the JSEZA, Kelli-Dawn demonstrated her prowess as an investment facilitator, playing a pivotal role in attracting investments and enhancing communication strategies. Prior to her tenure at the JSEZA, Kelli-Dawn honed her skills at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation, JAMPRO, where she contributed to a range of special projects, research, business development, capacity building, specifically in the services industry and investment promotion.
As a certified Services Go Global Trainer, Kelli-Dawn has been a catalyst for entrepreneurship across the Caribbean Region, empowering local businesses to expand their market base and access overseas markets.Recognized for her adept project management skills, Kelli-Dawn has successfully coordinated and implemented numerous national initiatives, contributing to the advancement of a range of sectors in Jamaica.In addition to her professional commitments, Kelli-Dawn actively contributes to the governance landscape of Jamaica, serving on the Board of Directors of prestigious organizations such as the Spectrum Management Authority of Jamaica, the Jamaica International Financial Services Authority (JIFSA), and the Rural Agricultural Development Agency (RADA).
Kelli-Dawn holds a Master of Science Degree in Comparative Politics and Political Theory, as well as a Bachelor of Science in International Relations with a minor in Political Science, both from the University of the West Indies, Mona. Her academic background, coupled with her extensive practical experience, underscores her commitment to driving socio-economic development and fostering strategic partnerships on a global scale.
ABOUT
Gosia Uminska
As a Snr Director B2B at Cable & Wireless Communications, Gosia’s responsibilities include overseeing business and product strategy, customer value proposition, go-to-market and Partner Management for Government and Large Enterprises across 25 Caribbean markets. She is passionate fostering innovation to drive maximum customer value and prosperity of the Caribbean region.
Gosia has extensive experience in the telecommunication and technology industry in Europe, US and the Caribbean. She is a Chartered Management Accountant and worked in various finance, operations, and commercial roles. Gosia also serves as the Chairperson of PMAC Digitalization Working Group
Gosia has extensive experience in the telecommunication and technology industry in Europe, US and the Caribbean. She is a Chartered Management Accountant and worked in various finance, operations, and commercial roles. Gosia also serves as the Chairperson of PMAC Digitalization Working Group
ABOUT
Jo-Anne Meaux Arends
Jo-Anne Arends is a passionate and experienced Aviation Business Development Executive responsible for driving overall business growth at the Aruba Airport with more than 10 years of experience within the dynamic aviation sector.
Highly skilled in innovating new business segments, creating comprehensive market planning strategies, conducting meticulous data analysis, devising impactful marketing approaches, accurate forecasting and executing strategic pricing methodologies.
Highly skilled in innovating new business segments, creating comprehensive market planning strategies, conducting meticulous data analysis, devising impactful marketing approaches, accurate forecasting and executing strategic pricing methodologies.
ABOUT
Ronald Theodore
Ronald Theodore is currently employed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Investment Development Corporation (GIDC). Theodore has been employed with GIDC since November 2001, where he was first employed as an Investment Promotion Officer. He has been instrumental in facilitating many investments in Grenada within the Tourism, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Agribusiness sectors.
He had the distinction of being the first Grenadian President of the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies from 2012 to 2014 and continued to serve on their Board until 2020. He was again elected as President on December 19, 2022, for the period 2023 to 2024.Theodore is also a member of Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Committee and serves on the Board of Grenada’s Bureau of Standards.He holds an MBA from the Edinburg Business School as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Economics & Management from the University of the West Indies.
He had the distinction of being the first Grenadian President of the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies from 2012 to 2014 and continued to serve on their Board until 2020. He was again elected as President on December 19, 2022, for the period 2023 to 2024.Theodore is also a member of Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Committee and serves on the Board of Grenada’s Bureau of Standards.He holds an MBA from the Edinburg Business School as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Economics & Management from the University of the West Indies.
ABOUT
DeoDarwin Telemaque
Mr. Darwin Telemaque, is a very accomplished transportation and logistics expert professional with extensive experience in port operations, logistics, project management, and safety management. Mr. Telemaque is a strategic leader who prioritizes performance optimization and employs international best practices in addressing intricate technological, logistical, and human resource issues.
Mr Telemaque currently serves as the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, a position he has held for ten years. He has played a significant role in the redevelopment of the port in St. John's, Antigua, which is regarded as the first of its kind in the Caribbean. With the ability to berth three cargo ships and five cruise ships concurrently, it serves as a vital hub for transportation and a significant driver of the local economy.
In addition to his duties, he holds the positions of Vice-Chairman of the International Committee of Ports of the Organization of the American States (OAS), Chairman of the Port Committee of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and Chairman of the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC). He fulfills these positions with passion and diligence, working to advance the development of these organizations for the benefit of the region they serve.
It's remarkable that Mr. Telemaque can participate on multiple local development committees and consultancies despite his various obligations. He has sat on several key panel discussions relating to port developments, Regional Transport, Logistics around the region and the world. He is passionate about developing resilient and sustainable infrastructure and Port Services for the region.
Mr Telemaque currently serves as the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, a position he has held for ten years. He has played a significant role in the redevelopment of the port in St. John's, Antigua, which is regarded as the first of its kind in the Caribbean. With the ability to berth three cargo ships and five cruise ships concurrently, it serves as a vital hub for transportation and a significant driver of the local economy.
In addition to his duties, he holds the positions of Vice-Chairman of the International Committee of Ports of the Organization of the American States (OAS), Chairman of the Port Committee of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and Chairman of the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC). He fulfills these positions with passion and diligence, working to advance the development of these organizations for the benefit of the region they serve.
It's remarkable that Mr. Telemaque can participate on multiple local development committees and consultancies despite his various obligations. He has sat on several key panel discussions relating to port developments, Regional Transport, Logistics around the region and the world. He is passionate about developing resilient and sustainable infrastructure and Port Services for the region.
ABOUT
Mrs. Shullette Cox
Mrs. Shullette Cox became President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) on February 13, 2023, marking a remarkable journey from her beginnings as a JAMPRO intern over 20 years ago. Her dynamic leadership and unwavering dedication are focused on driving JAMPRO's mission to promote exports, investments and Jamaica's overall growth, shaping a prosperous future for the nation.
Previously, Mrs. Cox served as Vice President of the Research, Advocacy, and Project Implementation Division (RAPID), where she skillfully managed crucial national programs such as the National Competitiveness Council (NCC), the National Investment Policy (NIP), and the Jamaica Business Gateway (JBG).
Her tenure has seen her driving pivotal government reforms that have elevated Jamaica's global business ranking, particularly the significant leap from 21st to 6th place worldwide for starting a business. With diverse qualifications, including certification as a change management practitioner, gazetted court mediator, and training in finance and estate planning, Mrs. Cox’s influence extends beyond JAMPRO. She contributes as a respected board member for various institutions, such as the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA), the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA), and the Jamaica International Financial Services Authority (JIFSA).
Previously, Mrs. Cox served as Vice President of the Research, Advocacy, and Project Implementation Division (RAPID), where she skillfully managed crucial national programs such as the National Competitiveness Council (NCC), the National Investment Policy (NIP), and the Jamaica Business Gateway (JBG).
Her tenure has seen her driving pivotal government reforms that have elevated Jamaica's global business ranking, particularly the significant leap from 21st to 6th place worldwide for starting a business. With diverse qualifications, including certification as a change management practitioner, gazetted court mediator, and training in finance and estate planning, Mrs. Cox’s influence extends beyond JAMPRO. She contributes as a respected board member for various institutions, such as the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA), the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA), and the Jamaica International Financial Services Authority (JIFSA).
ABOUT
Sekou Alleyne
A strategic business development professional, Sekou attained his MBA from the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Business and earned his Bachelor of Commerce at Concordia University, Montreal, Canada. Sekou has leveraged his background in Toronto’s real estate development and leasing market to play a leading role in the investor attraction effort in InvesTT since its inception. Sekou was intimately involved in the attraction and facilitation of the set-up of Trinidad and Tobago’s first international Call Centre, iQor, which is located at the Tamana Intech Park, and has now expanded to three locations.
A primary focus for Sekou at InvesTT, the national investment promotion agency of Trinidad and Tobago, is attracting investment to the country’s Business Process Outsourcing, Manufacturing, Logistics and Maritime and Agri business sectors. As well, the tenanting of eTecK’s Phoenix Park Industrial Estate, Tamana In Tech Park and the Moruga Agro-industrial parks is of utmost importance to the agency.
As the leader of the Agency, Sekou is highly motivated to engage in activities leading to investment in the above sectors including stakeholder engagement with existing industry participants, site selector consultant engagement as well as foreign and local investor awareness, outreach and facilitation.
A primary focus for Sekou at InvesTT, the national investment promotion agency of Trinidad and Tobago, is attracting investment to the country’s Business Process Outsourcing, Manufacturing, Logistics and Maritime and Agri business sectors. As well, the tenanting of eTecK’s Phoenix Park Industrial Estate, Tamana In Tech Park and the Moruga Agro-industrial parks is of utmost importance to the agency.
As the leader of the Agency, Sekou is highly motivated to engage in activities leading to investment in the above sectors including stakeholder engagement with existing industry participants, site selector consultant engagement as well as foreign and local investor awareness, outreach and facilitation.
ABOUT
Dr Samir Hamrouni
Dr. Samir Hamrouni is CEO of the World Free Zones Organization. He leads the organization to bring Free Zone stakeholders together and promote their positive impact. In seven years he has overseen the reach of the organization into over 130 countries. Through his flagship initiative Free Zone of the Future- a global initiative for local prosperity, Dr. Samir is providing Free Zones with the necessary tools to be tech-ready, innovative and sustainable organizations which contribute to the economic prosperity and social development of their host country.
Previously, Dr. Samir was employed as Senior Advisor with Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), a 100% Government owned free zone that promotes modern technology based industries. Previous to DSO he was at Economic Zones World, EZW, a global developer and operator of economic zones, technology, logistics and industrial parks. EZW’s portfolio includes JAFZA, one of the world’s largest free zones; TechnoPark (TP), a research driven business and industrial park, and Dubai Auto Zone, an industry specific free zone.
Dr. Samir coordinated a multidisciplinary team, which developed for the Dubai Economic Development Department and Dubai Executive Council the “Dubai Medium Term Economic Plan 2012-2016”.Dr. Samir has served in various posts since he began his career. He was Manager of Research & Development at The Arab Science & Technology Foundation (ASTF). During 2004-2005, Samir joined the Euro-Arab Management School (EAMS), as Director of Business Development. In 2002, he founded the Barcelona Arab Center, which aims to consolidate Euro-Arab cooperation in the cultural, social, educational and economic fields.
From 2002, he was working as Research Manager at the University of Barcelona (UB), where he played a key role in the internationalization of research and the establishment of “Parc Cientific de Barcelona” (Barcelona Science Park), a pioneer R+D+I structure.
Previously, Dr. Samir was employed as Senior Advisor with Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), a 100% Government owned free zone that promotes modern technology based industries. Previous to DSO he was at Economic Zones World, EZW, a global developer and operator of economic zones, technology, logistics and industrial parks. EZW’s portfolio includes JAFZA, one of the world’s largest free zones; TechnoPark (TP), a research driven business and industrial park, and Dubai Auto Zone, an industry specific free zone.
Dr. Samir coordinated a multidisciplinary team, which developed for the Dubai Economic Development Department and Dubai Executive Council the “Dubai Medium Term Economic Plan 2012-2016”.Dr. Samir has served in various posts since he began his career. He was Manager of Research & Development at The Arab Science & Technology Foundation (ASTF). During 2004-2005, Samir joined the Euro-Arab Management School (EAMS), as Director of Business Development. In 2002, he founded the Barcelona Arab Center, which aims to consolidate Euro-Arab cooperation in the cultural, social, educational and economic fields.
From 2002, he was working as Research Manager at the University of Barcelona (UB), where he played a key role in the internationalization of research and the establishment of “Parc Cientific de Barcelona” (Barcelona Science Park), a pioneer R+D+I structure.
ABOUT
Minister Aubyn Hill
Minister Aubyn Hill has over 35 years of working experience in the private sector. As an international banker, he has lived in nine countries and done business in more than 125. With a MBA from Harvard Business School, Senator Hill spent 21 years as a banker in the Middle East. Starting in 2002, he also led the management team which completed the successful turnaround of one of the largest banks in the Caribbean, National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCB).
In 19 months, Aubyn and his team moved NCB’s stock price from $5.51 when he joined to JA$31.70. After The Most Honourable Andrew Holness was returned as Prime Minister in a landslide election on September 3, 2020, he invited Senator Aubyn Hill to join his cabinet in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation.
On January 11, 2022, Prime Minister Holness reshuffled the Cabinet and appointed Minister Hill as Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce. Minister Hill has responsibility for 20 agencies and departments. Minister has a firm interest in facilitating, enabling and encouraging small and large Jamaican businesses to grown and be profitable. His focus is on growing exports exponentially and securing greater local andforeign direct investments into the Jamaican economy.
In 19 months, Aubyn and his team moved NCB’s stock price from $5.51 when he joined to JA$31.70. After The Most Honourable Andrew Holness was returned as Prime Minister in a landslide election on September 3, 2020, he invited Senator Aubyn Hill to join his cabinet in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation.
On January 11, 2022, Prime Minister Holness reshuffled the Cabinet and appointed Minister Hill as Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce. Minister Hill has responsibility for 20 agencies and departments. Minister has a firm interest in facilitating, enabling and encouraging small and large Jamaican businesses to grown and be profitable. His focus is on growing exports exponentially and securing greater local andforeign direct investments into the Jamaican economy.
ABOUT
Harvey Garcia
Harvey Garcia, Founder and President of Holistic Solutions Global, is an accomplished entrepreneur with two decades of experience in business development across technology, global commodity trade, logistics, and food distribution.
Renowned as an award-winning sales professional, Harvey is particularly committed to advancing the agricultural sector in the Dominican Republic. He has spearheaded successful initiatives such as Caribe Farms and the Dominican Soybean Association, consistently driving startup ventures toward substantial growth.
Harvey's expertise has also enriched major corporations like Coca Cola Enterprises and Time Warner, bolstering their market presence. With a deep passion for business, nutrition, and innovative problem-solving, Harvey aims to transform agribusiness throughout the CALA region and beyond.
Renowned as an award-winning sales professional, Harvey is particularly committed to advancing the agricultural sector in the Dominican Republic. He has spearheaded successful initiatives such as Caribe Farms and the Dominican Soybean Association, consistently driving startup ventures toward substantial growth.
Harvey's expertise has also enriched major corporations like Coca Cola Enterprises and Time Warner, bolstering their market presence. With a deep passion for business, nutrition, and innovative problem-solving, Harvey aims to transform agribusiness throughout the CALA region and beyond.
CLIC 2024
speakers
Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill
Minister - Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce - Jamaica
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Ronald Theodore
President - CAIPA
CEO - Grenada Investment Development Corporation
CEO - Grenada Investment Development Corporation
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Darwin Telemaque
Chairman - Port Management Association of the Caribbean
CEO - Antigua Port Authority
CEO - Antigua Port Authority
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Licia Grant
Senior Director, Business Partners & Support Services - Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority
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Robert Barcelo
Business Development Manager - Port Everglades
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Jorge Duran
Chief Secretariat, Inter-American Committee on Ports (CIP) - Organization of American States (OAS)
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Kelli-Dawn Hamilton
Chief Executive Officer - Special Economic Zone Authority
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Gosia Uminska
Snr Director Enterprise & Government CVP- Cable & Wireless Communications
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Jo-Anne Meaux Arends
Aviation Business Development Executive -Aruba Airport Authority
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Shullette Cox
President - Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO)
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Sekou Alleyne
President, InvesTT - Invest Trinidad & Tobago
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Dr. Samir Hamrouni
CEO - World Free Zones Organization
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Gilbert Williams
CEO - Ethniv Inc
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Harvey Garcia
Founder & President - Holistic Solutions Dominicana
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Copyright ©2024 Caribbean Logistics Investment Conference 2024
Contact: CLIC2024@investincaribbean.org
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