SOCIAL SECURITY SELF-EMPLOYED SYMPOSIUM
The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board hosted its first Self-employed symposium during its 24th Self-employed anniversary, an event designed to provide support to the Self-employed for retooling and re-introduction of key concepts in a contracted economy. The event was attended by over 40 Self-employed persons representing a wide range of sectors including vendors, contractors, bus and taxi drivers, farmers, accountants, beauticians, retail stores, and other professionals.
“Social Security continues to be the single most important social program designed by the Government to strive for economic justice for its people. This is driven by the wisdom, that when hardship is upon us, especially unexpectedly, wages can easily be replaced”, said Mr. Antonio Maynard, Director at the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, in his opening remarks. The Director further indicated that one of the objectives in commemorating this anniversary, is for Social Security to intensify their efforts to engage the Self-employed and enhance registration and compliance. “The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most powerful example, why all Self-employed persons must ensure that they are registered and compliant to receive their benefits”, he ended.
Presentations during the event covered an overview of understanding Self-employed coverage and its importance, insurance options to supplement Social Security’s coverage, small business measures and guidance during the pandemic, digital relevance and rebuilding in the COVID economy.
“We have to treat the current situation that we are facing as a new normal. Entrepreneurs must adjust their business management as if they are going to be in a prolonged down-swing”, said Economist, Mr. Peter Adrian. Central to his inspiring presentation, Mr. Adrian encouraged the attendees to practice better management of their cash flow immediately. “You’ll have to mitigate your risk by taking some chances, eliminating others, and controlling most”, he added.
Other presentations focused on:
- Developing an intimate relationship with Social Security and understanding how the coverage is beneficial to the Self-employed, as outlined by Compliance Manager – Denis Johnson
- The importance of securing endowments, whole life plans or riders to support your pension income during your golden years by Mr. Terence Dublin of NAGIGO Insurance
- The 3 M’s of Marketing Strategy (message, market & means) presented by Mr. Rodney Browne of e-Caribbean and,
- Considering an alternative stream of income, partnership, and survival tips to keep your business afloat by Ms. Deidre Richardson of Richardson’s Business Services.
The Symposium was chaired by Mr. Walwyn Chiverton – Benefits Manager, the National Anthem was rendered by Mr. Alex Condell – Inspector, and the closing remarks by Chief Self-employed Inspector, Mrs. Patricia Rogers-Lake.
All presentations from our invited speakers can be viewed on our YouTube channel: St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board.
The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board whole-heartedly thanks all the attendees and presenters for attending the one-day symposium and has committed its ongoing support to the Self-employed sector.
A similar Symposium is scheduled for Nevis on Wednesday 19th August 2020 at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church Hall Room, 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Tasha Hendrickson, Acting Public Relations & Customer Service Manager
St. Christopher & Nevis Social Security Board
Phone: 869 465 2535
Email: thendrickson@socialsecurity.kn