Caribbean Business Hub celebrated its double lustrum in style on March 26. The tropical evening at the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Curaçao in The Hague was enhanced by performances from the famous singer/entertainer Lou Prince. His iconic song, “This is the moment,” set the tone right from the start for the attending entrepreneurs and professionals.
After the opening by CBH’s chairman, Nico de Visser, and the acting Minister Plenipotentiary, Ms. Ann Phillips, the CBH board member Lionel Martijn reflected on 10 years of successful Caribbean networking. Core values of Caribbean Business Hub as a platform for fostering entrepreneurship were highlighted, including personal entrepreneurship and building bridges between the Kingdom’s regions. Additionally, attention was paid to the founders of CBH, the keynote speakers over the years, the successful deals made, and also tribute was paid to those who have passed away.
Then Antoin Klein Hofmeijer, Head of TUI Dutch Caribbean, provided an insight into the organization and activities of the travel company TUI in the Caribbean region. A very diverse range of locations is available, catering to all target groups. This company is clearly rooted in the islands, with local employees and as a supporter of sustainability and social projects.
Robby Schouten, a television icon with “Far away from home,” subsequently spoke about his 60-year career. Besides being a tv-producer, he is a successful entrepreneur with his tours across Europe—a role model for entrepreneurs from the Caribbean who wish to start businesses in Europe.
Especially for the 10th anniversary, two Caribbean Business Hub plaques were awarded. Robby Schouten received an award for his contributions as an ambassador for all the Caribbean islands and his versatile entrepreneurship. Nico van der Ven of NivenPress was honored for 10 years of giving support to CBH with his professional photography.
Naturally, there was also plenty of time for networking, and Lou Prince once again serenaded the audience with his warm voice. The diverse group of attendees clearly enjoyed the great company, delicious tropical catering, and positive, constructive atmosphere. Many have already signed up for the next business event on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, with the topical theme “We make Caribbean Great Again!” For more information, visit www.caribbeanbusinesshub.nl
