Buzz to Brand: Celebrating Identity and Empowering the Beekeeping Community by Shenequa Williams
The gentle hum of collaboration filled the Copper and Lumber Event Centre (Nelson’s Dockyard) on Wednesday, October 16th, as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Antigua and Barbuda Intellectual Property & Commerce Office (ABIPCO), and the Antigua and Barbuda Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. (ABBC) hosted the opening day of a two-day workshop titled “Buzz to Brand: Celebrating Identity and Empowering the Beekeeping Community.”
The event marked a significant milestone for the local beekeeping industry, highlighting how intellectual property (IP) can strengthen community-based enterprises and elevate national products from hive to heritage.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Ricki Camacho/Registrar of ABIPCO, described the initiative as a proud achievement for both the ABBC and the nation. She commended the dedication and professionalism of all partners involved, emphasizing that the project represents “A collective mark on the power of creativity, collaboration, and transformation.” Ms. Camacho also extended gratitude to the WIPO team for their technical guidance and to her ABIPCO colleagues for their unwavering commitment.
Ms. Jess Honculada/Senior Counsellor at WIPO, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting inclusive development through intellectual property. She praised the partnership with ABIPCO and ABBC, noting that the workshop embodies WIPO’s mission to empower local industries by harnessing IP tools to promote identity, innovation, and sustainability.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture, underscored the vital role bees play in ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security. He noted that beekeeping is more than an economic activity, it represents a mindset of stewardship. “Sustainability,” he stated, “is about producing in ways that protect our environment, nurture our communities, and secure our future.” He also reminded participants that pollination contributes to over 75% of flowering plants and nearly 35% of global food production, making the work of beekeepers essential to both agriculture and biodiversity.
Participants were also invited to explore the Entrepreneurial Exhibition, introduced by Mr. John Mussington/Chairman of the Barbuda Council/Barbudan Beekeeper, and Ms. Taril Walker Bowen/Vice President of the ABBC. The exhibition featured a range of locally crafted products, such as honey-based goods, handmade candles, and creative artisan pieces, that showcased the ingenuity of local entrepreneurs and the versatility of beekeeping by-products. The session concluded with a honey tasting, giving attendees the opportunity to savor the sweetness of Antigua and Barbuda’s locally produced honey.
Hon. E.P. Chet Greene/Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, delivered a compelling address on “The Role of Branding in National Economic Resilience.” He emphasized that branding is not merely about marketing but a strategic tool for national development. “A brand,” he explained, “is a symbol of authenticity and excellence. When we build a strong collective brand as a region, we amplify our voice on the global stage.” The Minister encouraged local producers to think beyond the product and focus on creating a brand that reflects the spirit and resilience of the Antiguan and Barbudan people.
The first day of the workshop concluded at 12:30 p.m. due to inclement weather and was scheduled to resume on Friday, October 17th, continuing the conversation on empowering the beekeeping sector through innovation, collaboration, and identify.
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