PHILIPSBURG--Produce Wealth Revolution Agency (PWR Agency) owner Ifelola Badejo won the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI) election on Friday to represent small businesses. Badejo told The Daily Herald last night that she will be lobbying for digital solutions for businesses, amongst other things.
Badejo amassed a total of 84 votes, 72 at the Philipsburg polling station and 22 at the polling station in Simpson Bay. Also contesting the election were Anna Richardson, who received 70 votes – 63 in Philipsburg and 7 in Simpson Bay; and Cleon Frederick, who secured 52 votes – 47 in Philipsburg and 5 in Simpson Bay.
Badejo said, “Wow! I am overwhelmed by the love and support during this process locally, in the region, and around the world. I am keen on ensuring that we are able to lobby for digital solutions that help small-scale businesses especially through online payments. Another focus is to ensure that there is increased accuracy of information and communication to the business community.”
Badejo said she had decided to enter the race to be able to do more for small businesses and entrepreneurs. “My belief is that the growth and sustainability of our economy is dependent on the success of our small businesses. Along with the other board members, I am looking forward to seeing some changes that are in the best interest of all.”
She congratulated Benjamin Ortega and Jennifer Carty as the new big-business representatives on the board. She also thanked Frederick and Richardson “for an amazing run and campaign as well as being excellent examples of good work ethic and great sportsmanship. I believe that they set a new standard on what elections should be like. Now it’s time to celebrate before the real work begins.
“I would like to thank The Most High for His wisdom and protection, my family, supporters, and all voters who came out. I could not have achieved this alone and so this position is owed to small businesses and the business community at large, as a board member of the Chamber of Commerce.”
