Growing up in the Belize River Valley area, it was always my hope to defy the odds and pursue my creative dream fulltime. In January 2022, while still in the corporate world, I launched HEYABBZ, a brand known for minimalist, timeless jewelry handcrafted from precious materials such as pearls, crystals, and gold-filled wires. We quickly became known for our signature personalized rings and our shoppers' ability to come as close as possible to creating their own pieces. A year later, in January 2023, I traded my corporate office for an at-home artisan table and have been creating many meaningful treasures, heirloom and bijouterie since. We continue to think of new ways to maintain a more interactive approach to jewelry shopping, and we hope to have our pieces not only offered within the borders of Belize, but also internationally offered.

Becoming a member of the Chamber undoubtedly was one of the best business decisions made for HEYABBZ. There is a heightened sense of professional care offered by the Chamber that has allowed us to grow strategically. Our first participation in an event held by the BCCI was the Expo Belize Market Place 2022. We took our notes and came back the following year 2023 with a different and more elevated presentation, which ultimately awarded us Best Youth Entrepreneur. This year, we also received the award of Best Micro Booth 2024. These accolades have added immense credibility to our name, opened many doors of opportunities and have allowed us to expand in the MSME realm. 

The Chamber has consistently ensured an environment of care and attention for HEYABBZ. 

I am grateful for all the opportunities offered to us through the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

- Abigail Bood: Creative Designer and Founder - HEYABBZ

December 5, 2024

The CK GIRLS brand was founded in 2022. Though I was constantly occupied, I have always had a desire to launch my own business in the children's clothing sector. During quarantine, I took the time to research about the children’s clothing market which included strategies, competition, and perspectives. I was inspired to develop new designs and make those designs a reality ever since. Following quarantine, I had the brand name CK GIRLS, the products, and some ideas for how to launch my business into the marketplace. Then came the big question, “When would be the right time and place?”

My initial introduction to the BCCI occurred when a friend encouraged me to become involved with the organization. I took the initiative to learn about participating in one of Belize's premier events, the Expo Belize Market Place 2022, where CK GIRLS received their first award for Most Creative Booth. Subsequently, I became a member of BCCI in early 2023. Later that same year, CK GIRLS received a second award for Best Booth. We are immensely grateful to BCCI, as it has significantly contributed to enhancing our brand's recognition and reputation. I will always appreciate the BCCI for the numerous wonderful opportunities that they have provided and continue to provide.

~ Irma Ramos: Founder & Owner – CK GIRLS

August 15, 2024

Lord Designs was founded in 2021 in Belize City. I began by creating small wooden pieces for my home, family, and friends. From there I launched my business on Instagram where I accepted orders. All my products are made of Belizean woods and handcrafted by me. Lord Designs is honored to have customers choose us, and I know the pieces will bring years of happiness to their new homes.

In 2022, I became a member of the Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry and won the title of Best Male Entrepreneur. Through participating in the Made in Belize Trade Shows and Expo Belize Market Place events hosted by the BCCI, Lord Designs has received greater exposure which has in turn, lead to greater sales. I am extremely grateful to the BCCI and its events for all of the opportunities it has provided me over the last few years.

~ Andrew Lord: Founder & Owner - Lord Designs

July 22, 2024

"When I discovered that micro businesses could join the Belize Chamber of Commerce, I eagerly signed up Deb's Trinket Box. Building credibility is essential for startups like mine aiming to establish themselves in the marketplace. Associating with a respected organization like the Belize Chamber of Commerce is crucial because it enhances trust among potential customers, partners, and investors who value the Chamber's reputation for promoting business excellence and ethical practices.

Joining the Chamber has proven to be a strategic move for my handmade gemstone jewelry business. The partnerships and resources available have significantly enhanced our membership experience, providing valuable networking opportunities through events such as the Made in Belize Trade Show and Expo Belize Marketplace, as well as increasing our visibility within the local business community. This has strengthened our position and opened doors to new growth opportunities."

~ Deb Arana: Artisan & Founder - Deb's Trinket Box

July 8, 2024

I chose to become a Member of the Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry because, as a member, there are many opportunities. For instance, I have been able to participate in seminars that were beneficial to me as an entrepreneur and to my growing small business. Also, I have received a lot of support and advice from the Chamber in my growing business - they have motivated me to keep growing, innovating, and achieving my goals. Lastly, getting the member discount and attending the Made in Belize Expo & Expo Belize Marketplace has given me the opportunity to showcase my products and introduce them to the Belizean community.

I share a heartfelt “Thank You” to the Chamber and all its members for their continued support! 

~ Ashlee Habet - Owner of Ashlee’s Baked Creations

April 18, 2024

Socias LTD is a digital company led by three innovative women who believe that digital transformation, strategically applied is key to business growth and efficiency. Socias is behind some of the most innovative and disruptive digital solutions in the Belizean market; including Belize’s first online marketplace- BelizeON, and the customer favourite fully automated food delivery app- BelizeOND’Way. Socias’ mission is rooted in transforming and disrupting the digital landscape of Belize and doing so while amplifying the talents and potential of every team member. 

Socias was built and thrives on the sum of every individual voice being heard- priding ourselves in empowering the voices of the women in our organization so they are equally positioned for success. With a focus on mentorship and professional development, Socias works every day to ensure that the next generation of women leaders has an even bigger impact on the entrepreneurial landscape in Belize.

We celebrate the achievements of women globally not just this month, but every month! Our hope is that our output helps to close the gap of what it takes to achieve true gender equality in our society- one inspired woman at a time.

~ Yanik Flowers, Marketing Manager at Socias Ltd.

March 17, 2023

My name is Carla Vernon proud owner of Handmade Jewelry by Carla, mother of three boys. My business started in June 2020 during Covid, I was finding a way to make money, and also something I love doing while being at home, I  had always loved crafts anything that has to do with crafts I loved, always willing and open to learning new things. So one day I was playing with some beads and made a set of sunflower earrings, one of my sons saw my work and asked me to make a bracelet and a ring for him so I said why not, posted a picture of my finishing product on m Facebook page some friends started asking questions making inquiries about some pieces of jewelry they would be interested in, I didn't want to do it at first. But my little sister took the initiative to post pictures of the pieces of jewelry and then oh gosh! Her friends started to place orders, and that's how my business exists up to this point, I must say that being an entrepreneur has its challenges but I am grateful for the women in my circle who have been there for me and have stood strong beside me, rooting for me and for my business to grow!          

Happy Women's Month to all hardworking women, keep striving to make ends meet!!!

~ Carla Vernon, Owner of Handmade Jewelry by Carla

March 17, 2023

Smithy's Natural Blend is an all-natural refreshing, tasty & unique juice flavors company. Juices for a purpose with benefits. Smithy "policy" your health matter!

~Adelma Malic, Co-Owner of Smithy's Natural Blend

March 17, 2023

“In a time where digitization and continued scalability makes or breaks a company, we see the value in the networking opportunities, webinars, and industry-relevant information that being a President Circle Member of the Chamber affords. The Chamber strives to raise the professional appearance of the service industry in Belize, and I am excited to be a part of the transformation.”

-Asad Magana, Assistant General Manager, Lending Operations, Development Finance Corporation 

May 6, 2022

Our Team has been a part of the Belize Chamber of Commerce since 2016. The Training Support offered by BCCI through diverse workshops has enabled us to continue growing and innovating in our field.  It has also helped to strengthen our voice by offering a proactive platform for the Business Community. 

-Luenda Escalante, Assistant Manager

Zeta-OW Ice Factory & Bottling Co. Ltd.

March 9, 2022

"As a micro member and home baker, I value and appreciate that the Chamber hosts The Made in Belize Events which provide small businesses like mine the opportunity to showcase my products and expand my customer reach. In doing so, The Chamber's collaboration significantly impacts growth and builds awareness towards our brand. This has proven to be invaluable, especially in these challenging times."

-Chloe Marin, Home Baker of gourmet desserts and baked goods for all occasions.

 

February 16, 2022

"In a time where digitization and continued scalability makes or breaks a company, we see the value in the networking opportunities, webinars, and industry-relevant information that being a Signature member of the Chamber affords. The Chamber strives to raise the professional appearance of the service industry in Belize, and I am excited to be a part of the transformation.”

-Farah Guerrero Partner

December 7, 2021

"The Big Creek Group of Companies is a proud member of the Belize Chamber of Commerce. We have benefited greatly from our affiliation as it has allowed countless opportunities to connect with stakeholders and has provided access to a variety of seminars and training sessions for upskilling our workforce. During such uncertain times, the work of the BCC has been vital in offering a stable backdrop for businesses throughout Belize with their active role in Senate debates. The BCC can be considered a part of our business in the sense that they represent the private sector and as such is our eyes and ears with legislation and laws that affect us."

 

- Zahida Flores Managing Director Big Creek Group of Companies

 

November 10, 2021

"I am super appreciative of the BCCI.  Your programmes have helped increase the exposure for my small business, the staff is very responsive to my questions and concerns and the sharing of Information whether by training or daily emails ensure members are kept in the loop".

-Ms. Sheena Gentle Owner of Nari Self Care 

September 6, 2021

-Ms. Kathy Esquivel Manager

July 6, 2021

"Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has embraced the growth of my accounting and tax services firm. Engage with a group of professionals that support your professional and personal growth. I joined BCCI and so should you!" - Emil Pinelo Managing Director 

May 4, 2021

"Being a member of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry is of great benefit !!! The service is reliable, fast and of great quality. Their people are so friendly, professional and they are always willing to assist in the most efficient manner." -Tania Correa, Local Finance Officer

UNO Belize Limited April 1, 2021

"Calico Jack’s Resort and Zipline participates in the Belize Chamber of Commerce (Distinguished Member) because of the great value that membership provides. Our specific motivating factors for joining were to belong to a group with advocacy for businesses vis-à-vis policy and consistent with Belize’s sustainable development; the excellent and timely briefings and information that BCCI provides to its members on key business-related topics in Belize and in the region; funding and technical assistance for SMEs, and MSE provided by Caribbean and other multilateral agencies; and to belong to and have fellowship with a group of innovative risk-takers across economic sectors.
BCCI has over delivered with respect to our main objectives. For example, on advocacy, I note the contributions on the Labour Amendment and also of the Business Senator on the implications for businesses of the Holiday Act edit; our access to Policy Tracker and the posting of information on Belize by sector on the BCCI website which allows one to keep up to date on developments and laws; invitations in 2020 to apply for grants from CEDA and technical support from Compete Caribbean, and the events hosted by the BCCI and shift to zoom to keep all of us engaged notwithstanding the constraints we face during the Corona virus pandemic.
In addition, there are other membership benefits we prize including the hosting of training and seminars; the Expos that the BCCI hosts; and the BCCI discount card which not only provides discounts for Chamber members (extended recently to the staff of BCCI members) and that also allows BCCI members to support one another. We are proud to be longstanding Chamber members!"

 

Dr. Ydahlia Metzgen

Calico Jack's Village Limited March 3, 2021

"Marie Sharp's Fine Foods Limited has been a Proud Member of the Belize Chamber of Commerce. Being a Chamber of Commerce member comes with many benefits. These Benefits not only boost our business, but also help to connect, innovate and build lasting relationships with fellow members and the community on a whole.  For one we focus a lot in Marketing and in today's world we must get an edge. The BCCI has the right platform, venues and the dedicated staffs that can make this happen. The Chamber hosts and provides events like training sessions, luncheons, networking seminars and promotional events like the Expo for business development and growth. In addition, as a part of the chamber we get more exposure and credibility that is needed for customers to feel more at ease when doing business. We are also part of a vast network and membership that supports each other. Such support come in the form of providing great discounts on products and services using our unique BCCI discount card which can mean big money savings in the long term. This kind of partnership and opportunity that the BCCI provide helps build the local economy and we must do our part to participate and get involved as well. Furthermore, our Chamber is that voice that represents its members when issues may arise that impact business. Part of BCCI’s mandate is to advocate for its members on a national level and to continue its support for business in Belize. During this time of uncertainty, we want to continue build our relationship with the chamber and its members to foster a strong and healthy economic environment for the country of Belize. Whether you’re a small, medium, or large business joining the BCCI is a great business investment and decision that can promote growth and development."

Marie Sharp's Fine Foods Limited March 3, 2021

“Joining the Chamber has had a positive impact on our company and me personally. I know if I call on them they will support my efforts.

Starting a new business in Belize can be very complex for foreigners and Belizeans alike. Where do you go to for information? Where can you apply for grants? In your supply chain can you include other Belizean companies to ensure that you benefit more Belizeans? Names of lawyers and Government agencies, trade missions and so much more.

Naledo has grown in the last 4 years and managed to navigate complex waters thanks to the Chamber and its team. The Chamber’s staff and members have been very helpful to us especially when it comes to the advocacy work they do. We are a social enterprise that makes a difference in a local economy, through our young team and over 350 growers and environment. We do all our value added work in Belize.”

Naledo Belize March 3, 2021