St Lucia, February 20, 2024 – With sponsorship support from the Bank of St. Lucia, the St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, triumphantly hosted its first HR Connect dialogue successfully. “The Strategic Role of HR” a groundbreaking event aimed at bringing Human Resource Development and Human Resource Management professionals from Chamber Member Companies together to explore and discuss the strategic role of HR but also to share ideas and experiences on the “Evolving Role of HR”.

HR Connect is envisioned by the Chamber as a networking, knowledge and best practice sharing forum for Chamber members to help their HR Managers more appropriately address contemporary workplace issues, through coming together and finding collaborative vehicles to so do. Held at the Palmville Conference Room, Coco Palm, the event brought together HR professionals and thought leaders in the field of human resources for an open and insightful discussion and exchange of ideas.

The event featured a Keynote Address that sought to set the tone for the event delivered by Mr. Francis Lewis, Principal Consultant at Res Consulting, who delved into the topic by speaking to the strategic significance of HR amidst evolving organizational dynamics. Mr. Lewis' presentation, titled "Navigating Organizational Challenges: The Strategic Role of HR," was well received for its thought-provoking insights and relevance to today's corporate landscape.

The highlight of HR Connect was the very informative and captivating interactive panel discussion which followed. The Expert Panel featured prominent industry figures such as Mrs. Adella St Rose from Heineken St. Lucia, Mrs. Thecla Deterville from Celestial Self Development Centre, Mrs. Nickler Velinor-Paul from Massy Stores, Mr. Sherlon Leon from Sagicor Life, and Dr. Cletus Bertin from CARILEC. Moderated by Mr. Francis Lewis, the panel explored contemporary issues including the inter-generational workforce, psychological safety, embracing agility, use of data insights, talent management and the integration of AI in the workplace to name a few.

Brian Louisy, Executive Director of the St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, delivered closing remarks, expressing gratitude to sponsor Bank of St Lucia, speakers, panelist, and attendees for their contributions to the success of HR Connect. The event concluded with a number of give aways provided by some of the Panelist that included gift certificates for coaching sessions, workshop placements, and other company paraphernalia.

Overall, HR Connect was a resounding success, with participants asking for a schedule for future HR Connect Events, and providing recommendations on how future HR Connect events can be strengthened and even suggesting topics for future events for the Chamber’s consideration.

HR Connect is a clear affirmation of the Chamber's delivery of its value proposition on business development and upskilling services that meet the ever-evolving needs of members, while providing networking opportunities, information and critical knowledge to members.

Members can look forward to more relevant and exciting programs with the Chamber in the upcoming months.

For information on upcoming events, and how to become a member of the Chamber please visit the St Lucia Chamber of Commerce website at www.stluciachamber.org.

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