Entrepreneurs and small businesses were celebrated at the Economic Empowerment Zones Agency's (EEZA) For The People event held in North East Hamilton.

The four-hour event, which is in its second year, was staged in Court Street to recognise the contributions made towards the establishment of the North East Hamilton Economic Empowerment Zone (NEHEEZ).

Among the festivities on offer were live music and performances from a number of local entertainers and groups; a complimentary buffet for 600 people catered by Authentic Bermudian Cuisine (ABC) and Fish & Tings; fashion shows that showcased the stylish offerings of several unique retail shops in the North East Hamilton area, such as Clara Bows Boutique, Connections, Connections Plus, Connections Shoes, Kids 2000 and Klimaxx Boutique; and an entertainment finale provided by H&H Gombeys.

The EEZA also honoured influential people and organisations who have had a big input into the NEHEEZ, with presentations made by Finance Minister Paula Cox to: Hazel Christopher, the Augustus family, the Clarke family, and the Bermuda Industrial Union. In addition Youth on the Move Bermuda and Tetro Administrative Services celebrated six graduates of their training programme.

Erica Smith, director of the EEZA, said: "The For the People annual event is an opportunity for us to give back to the community while giving the business owners and stakeholders in this area an opportunity to show Bermuda the value that they add as businesses in the zone. Many of the shops in the NEHEEZ are unique and we look forward to the opportunity to be able to showcase the distinctive products and services that this area has to offer."