PHILIPSBURG:--- The K1 Britannia Foundation’s comprehensive Work, Training, and Social Development (WTSD) Program continues to empower youth from vulnerable and troubled backgrounds, fostering their skills and aspirations through various initiatives. The one-year K1 WTSD Program encompasses scholarships, work readiness and life skills workshops, volunteering, mentorship, internships, and more.
Recently, the program conducted a highly engaging two-day entrepreneurship workshop focusing on the Lean Canvas Business Model. The workshop, led by entrepreneur Damien Schmidt of Dastru Design Labs, provided participants with the opportunity to identify local problems, devise solutions, and create concise business plans and pitches. Schmidt remarked, "I was happy to work along with the K1 Team to be able to assist the youths on this journey. They were well satisfied, and I definitely see some future entrepreneurs. Looking forward to doing this again."
The workshop featured valuable real-life insights from four entrepreneurs, including Fanilia Baly of Divine, Kenrick Housen of Carl and Sons Unique Bakery, Billy-Jean Baptiste of Quick Stop Tire Center, and Darin Hodge. These entrepreneurs shared their personal journeys, discussing the struggles, challenges, and lessons learned in their entrepreneurial endeavors. They also answered questions, offered advice, and inspired the youth to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.
Additionally, Tishauna Richardson, a Junior Business Officer from Qredits, attended the workshop to share essential information about the role of Qredits in small business development on the island. She evaluated the various business pitches, posed insightful questions, and provided critical feedback. Her guidance was crucial in helping the youth clarify their business ideas, think critically, and understand how to leverage credit to build and sustain their businesses.
Aspiring entrepreneur Zack found the workshop especially useful and motivational, stating, “I was trying to figure out becoming an entrepreneur on my own. After I went to the workshop, they helped me open my eyes to the fact that I was on the right path. So, it made me have more faith and more hope that I’m getting somewhere.”
The workshop was filled with high energy and enthusiasm, reflecting the participants' strong interest in entrepreneurship. Many of the youth have set entrepreneurship as a key goal, and this workshop was a pivotal step in equipping them with the knowledge and motivation needed to achieve their dreams.
This is just one of the many workshops covering various focus areas of personal development, communication, financial literacy, health, work readiness/employment, entrepreneurship, and more, that the youth have benefited from as part of the program.
The goal of K1’s WTSD Program is to give youth a second chance, create a space for positive personal development, and invoke long-term change in a young person’s life that will positively impact St. Maarten.
The K1 Britannia Foundation expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Damien Schmidt and all guests for their expertise, positive energy, and passion in creating an engaging learning environment. Thanks to Shiekas Bistro for sponsoring the lunch and Cost U Less for sponsoring the drinks.
The program continues to provide valuable opportunities for youths to gain essential skills and empower themselves for a successful future. K1 Britannia Foundation is committed to assisting these youths in a variety of forms, but this relies entirely on the involvement and generosity of the community. If you are interested in the program and would like to know how you can help, as there are many ways you can, don't hesitate to send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 721-523-8421 or +1 721-553-8186.
