The amazing Anya Ayoung-Chee, recently joined me for a conversation about the Caribbean entrepreneurship ecosystem. A true entrepreneur and dynamic agent of progress, Anya is the co-founder of Nudge, an innovative ecosystem designed to support Caribbean entrepreneurs. Nudge serves as a vital community, providing resources, support, camaraderie, and guidance to entrepreneurs in the region.
The conversation delved into Anya’s background in design thinking and her journey from being a fashion designer to becoming a key player in entrepreneurship. The idea for Nudge emerged in 2017 when Anya fortuitously met her Nudge co-founder, Julie Avey, an executive at The Massy Group, one of the Caribbean’s largest conglomerates. The collaboration between Anya and Julie, with their diverse backgrounds, mirrors the bridging role that Nudge plays in connecting entrepreneurs with established companies.
Nudge has grown to support almost 200 entrepreneurs building ventures across three islands, helping address the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the Caribbean. Anya highlighted the limited access to markets, networking, and opportunities in comparison to more developed regions. The launch of Nudge in the midst of the 2020 pandemic emphasized the importance of mental well-being in entrepreneurship, acknowledging the emotional and mental impact of global challenges. The platform aims to not only develop skills but also to break down barriers, providing a direct bridge between innovative entrepreneurs and established companies in the Caribbean.