Senpa’s entrepreneurship roots blossom at flowershow |07 November 2017

Last weekend the show ground of Camion Hall was transformed into a flower garden for the opening of the fourth edition of ‘Noah’s Garden’.

Florist, garden lovers and horticulturists were all gathered to showcase different varieties of plants, flowers, animals and accessories.

Guests at the ceremony included Vice-President Vincent Meriton, the chief executive of the Small Enterprise Promotion Agency (Senpa) Penny Belmont, the principal secretary for industry, entrepreneurship development and business innovation Roger Toussaint, among others.

Organised by Senpa in collaboration with Violet Breeze, the aim of ‘Noah’s Garden’ is to raise awareness of the diversity, richness and cultural value of a garden and encourage new segments of the public to value them.  At the same time encourage small business in the horticulture sector to market their products and give them the exposure to showcase their ability and skills.

To formally launch the event Ms Belmont stated that it allows businesses to promote their products.

“Gardens educate people about biodiversity and food security, and preserve our great collections. We are extremely lucky to have so many beautiful plants and diverse home gardens in Seychelles. Such activity is part of Senpa’s annual events taking place every year, which was launched four years ago and has grown into one of our main events. Also our aim is to encourage more people to venture into such industry. It’s not easy to do business but with the right knowledge everyone can achieve their dreams,” she said.

Some of the flowers on display in the show

Mr Toussaint added that the Ministry of Finance is working really hard to allow small businesses to have better access to finance to develop their small business.

“Such activity allows small businesses to promote their work and also encourages more to venture into gardening.  It will also educate people on the importance on biodiversity and how to protect our plants. But small businesses need all the support to be successful, so the Ministry of Finance is working really hard to allow them to have better access to finance,” he said.

Many businesses came out to promote their work such as Organic Farming, Taluha Garden Centre and Lyra Florist among others.

The owner of Lyra Florist, Lyra Nicette, stated that she has been doing this business for the past 12 years.

She specialises in funeral bouquet, office bouquet, among others and her business is located at Ma Constance.

“I have been doing this business for the past 12 years. Local people really appreciate gardening, and we love our garden,” she said.

During the ceremony participants who have completed training in floral arrangement and basic sewing skills received their certificates.

During the launch ceremony there were also various forms of entertainment by singers Marie Antoinette Dodin and Jean Marc Volcy, kanmtole dance by Anse Boileau school and a fashion show.

Guests being entertained by a kanmtole dance performance and a fashion show