In the calm and serene setting of Nelson Road, Freeport, you will find the small workshop of Mrs. Stephania Ramkaran. Mrs. Ramkaran is in the business of Garment Construction, her specialty being children’s clothing (girls). Recently, however, she has ventured in the creation of wall-hangings and handbags.

 

Mrs. Ramkaran was always inspired to be a creative person. By October 2002, she made a move to walk away from her steady job to do what most people are afraid to- start her own business.  Stephania indicated that she had previously heard of NEDCO and the services they offer but was hesitant to the idea of going to a lending institution. She remained self- funded until June of 2005 when she finally came to NEDCO to receive funding.

 

When asked what made her finally decide to use NEDCO as a lending agency, Mrs. Ramkaran stated “the people there are very excited about creativity”. She further added that she was not looking for the ease with which she could obtain funding but rather the reaction to her work. At NEDCO her work received “ecstatic appreciation” from the staff members.

 

Since receiving financing from NEDCO she has been able to increase her production efficiency and capacity. Her products have been moving at a rapid pace, with her children clothes selling out on a regular basis. Her customer base comprises mainly tourists and returning nationals.

 

Mrs. Ramkaran is working towards establishing a retail shop as well as regional bases in Jamaica, Bahamas and Barbados. She also hopes to have a larger workshop. In closing the ambitious mother says that she will recommend NEDCO to any entrepreneur.