August was a whirlwind, packed with a mix of challenges, accomplishments, and unexpected highlights. It was the kind of month that tests your mettle as an entrepreneur and reminds you why resilience and humor are essential for survival. Here’s a look at what kept me busy (and on my toes) this month.
Agri Expo Adventure
August kicked off with the Agri Expo, an event that brought together innovators, farmers, entrepreneurs, and agri-enthusiasts under one roof. This year was particularly special for me as it marked the first time in two years that I exhibited at an event. It felt great to be back in an environment buzzing with excitement and innovation. It was incredible to witness firsthand how the industry is evolving with new technologies and sustainable practices.
For me, it was not just a chance to network but also an opportunity to highlight my involvement with Sorghum United. I took the time to speak to a few interested individuals about the work we’re doing and the potential that sorghum holds for the region. The interest and curiosity were palpable, and it reminded me of the importance of sharing knowledge and creating awareness.
Walking through the expo, I was inspired by the passion and ingenuity of everyone present and left with a renewed sense of purpose. The event reaffirmed the interconnectedness of my ventures with agriculture and local industries, making the experience all the more rewarding.
Lights, Camera, Action: Back on the Filming Set
This month, I also found myself back on set for another filming project, and it was as exhilarating as ever. There’s a unique energy that comes with being on a filming set—a blend of creativity, coordination, and a touch of chaos. This time, we were showcasing young, local entrepreneurs and their journeys. Watching these kids share their stories and pitch their businesses was a beautiful reminder of why I love supporting and championing the next generation. Their passion and courage to stand in front of the camera and share their dreams were inspiring. It was a day filled with excitement, a few tears, and a lot of motivation. Supporting young entrepreneurs? Absolutely a 10/10 experience.
The Drama of Shipment Issues and the USD Forex Shortage
August wouldn’t have been complete without a bit of logistical drama. This time, it wasn’t just about typical delays; it was my first real encounter with the madness of the USD forex shortage in Trinidad. It all started with an urgent shipment that was held up at customs. Without access to the USD needed to pay local shippers—because they require payment in USD—the demurrage fees for the shipment began racking up daily. Every hour was costing me, and the stress was piling up as customers started threatening to sue, claiming that the lack of supplies and equipment was damaging their businesses. It was a wild ride indeed.
To make matters worse, my typically “limitless” Scotia card decided to play tricks on me. Suspiciously limited after an unauthorized use scare, it left me stuck with a meager $500 USD cap, right when I needed more. My business has banked faithfully with them for over 10 years, yet a simple $3,000 USD wire transfer has been pending. Can you imagine the frustration?
The Impact on Business
These foreign exchange issues aren’t just inconveniences; they’re crippling. According to reports, Trinidad has been grappling with an ongoing USD shortage that has left businesses and individuals struggling. This shortage affects everything from day-to-day operations to large-scale imports. In my case, the delays and inability to make timely payments directly impacted my business’s reputation and client relationships. It’s difficult to maintain trust when customers are threatening legal action over delayed shipments.
To anyone considering business ventures in Trinidad, take note: This is not a playground for the faint of heart, the weak of spirit, or those who plan on staying sober through the chaos. The mix of slow-moving bureaucracy, bank restrictions, and currency shortages can test even the most seasoned entrepreneurs. And yet, somehow, we find a way to keep pushing forward—adapting, learning, and finding new (sometimes unconventional) paths to keep our businesses alive.
Despite the absurdity of it all, this experience reinforced one thing: resilience is a non-negotiable skill here. We’re not just business owners; we’re jugglers, problem solvers, and, sometimes, magicians making miracles happen under pressure.
August might have thrown me into the deep end, but I came out swimming, albeit with a few more gray hairs and a deeper understanding of why we Trinidadians are so tough.
A Silver Lining: Recognition in Silver Lining First Million
Amidst the chaos, there was a bright spot: being featured in Silver Lining First Million, a publication that highlighted the growth of that business alongside the stories of entrepreneurs they support illustrating significant milestones. Seeing my journey laid out on pages 13 and 34 was surreal. It was a moment that made me pause, reflect, and feel proud of how far I’ve come. It felt like a nudge from the universe, a little sign saying,
“You’re on the right path. Keep going.”
For anyone who has battled depression, you know that it doesn’t simply disappear on command. But this month, for reasons I can’t fully explain, it felt like the weight lifted. The fog cleared, and I found myself with renewed energy and focus. I used this unexpected boost to fuel my projects and embraced every moment of clarity and peace. It’s not always like this, but when it is, you learn to appreciate it. Small victories like this are worth celebrating.
Wrapping Up August
August was a month filled with tests of patience, unexpected triumphs, and moments that reaffirmed why I do what I do. From the hustle and bustle of the Agri Expo to being featured in a respected publication, and from navigating the chaotic world of USD shortages to watching young entrepreneurs shine, it was a month that reminded me that the entrepreneurial journey is full of highs and lows.
For every late shipment, stressful bank issue, or sleepless night, there’s recognition, personal growth, and those sweet moments of pride that make it all worthwhile. Here’s to resilience, adaptability, and the small wins that keep us going. Here’s to August.
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