Several local business owners gained international exposure in the Big Apple thanks to a Bermuda Economic Development Corporation initiative.

BEDC representatives and five Bermudian entrepreneurs took part in the Events in Culture Summit hosted by Driven Society in Brooklyn, New York last month.

“This collaboration provided a unique opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products, gain international exposure, and connect with influential figures in the creative and entrepreneurial communities,” the BEDC said.

This event marked an important step in BEDC’s partnership with Driven Society, aimed at creating pathways for Bermudian entrepreneurs to reach international markets, network with global innovators, and gain exposure in the creative sector.

As part of the summit’s programming, Kelsea Williams, BEDC’s communications and development unit manager, participated in a panel discussion on how culture-driven platforms are redefining business and tourism.

The agenda featured panel discussions, presentations and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and business opportunities.

Ms Williams took part in a panel alongside Nas Nworu, PVO Global; Abdul Abdullah, AfroFuture; Shavonne Dargan, Live Nation Urban; and Cedric Shine of Strivers Agency.

The group explored how cultural platforms impact and redefine business and tourism collaborations, emphasising cultural exchange and experiential marketing.

Ms Williams said: “This continued partnership with Driven Society creates vital opportunities for Bermudian entrepreneurs to engage internationally, enhance their visibility, and establish lasting business relationships. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and exploring new opportunities to support the growth and success of our entrepreneurs.”

Participating Bermudian vendors included: Tomei Swan, Jaylen Ever, Nico Bean, Jerry-Dee Richardson, Brittany Haley, Camily Lovell and Janee Pitt.

The BEDC said the summit served as a prominent platform for brand marketers, event producers, and creators to discuss and share insights into experiential marketing, community-driven experiences and cultural engagement.

Ms Swan, cofounder of MLK & HNY, said: “Being at the Events in Culture Summit showed us that the heart, flavour, and storytelling behind MLK & HNY can hold space anywhere. We were proud to represent Bermuda, and even prouder to see how deeply people connected with what we do.”

She said the conference was a surreal experience filled with inspiring panels, creative energy and valuable insights.

“We are excited to carry them forward,” she said. “We are deeply grateful to the BEDC for their support and for championing inclusion and access for small businesses in Bermuda. This is only the beginning.”