Welcome to the BEDC corner; here, you will get a chance to meet the dedicated members of our team and Board. We will share our thoughts on entrepreneurship and what it means to provide support and help you build your dreams.
This month we feature Deshun Simmons, Assistant Communication & Development Officer.
- What excites you about entrepreneurship?
The ability of entrepreneurs to find solutions to problems that many of us may not quite see yet and the creative ways that they are able to execute their visions is inspiring. I’ve also found that some people “accidentally” become entrepreneurs; they create products or services that resonate with them and quickly find that there is a market for it, catapulting them into entrepreneurship.
- What advice would you give to someone who is trying to become an entrepreneur?
Learn. Entrepreneurs, especially those just starting, wear many hats in their business, so they should learn constantly and consistently. This will ensure that they build their brands sustainably and stay on top of current trends and best practices.
- What is your role at BEDC?
My role at BEDC is the Assistant Communication & Development Officer; my unit is responsible for ensuring the public knows who BEDC is, what we offer, and how we can help them throughout their entrepreneurial journey. We also work on developing the educational programming that we provide at the BEDC, from our Summer Student Entrepreneur Program to our Accelerator program.
- What is the best part about being a member of the BEDC team?
Helping entrepreneurs either launch a business or take it to the next level and then watching how their businesses grow over the months and years. Even helping our young people, through outreach, realize that entrepreneurship is a viable career option is great to see. As project coordinator for the Summer Student Entrepreneur Program, it’s incredible to see students, most times very shy, blossom into more confident entrepreneurs by the end of the program.
- What role does entrepreneurship play in the future of Bermuda?
Entrepreneurs are essential to a thriving economy as they can introduce innovative technologies & products and have the ability to provide short-term and long-term job opportunities.
- What trends have you noticed emerging within Bermuda’s Entrepreneurial Landscape?
We’ve seen a general increase in those wanting to start a business but have seen growth in entrepreneurs focusing on mental health and well-being as focal points in their businesses.
