WEL elects new president

Shayan Monelle has been elected as president of the Waitukubuli Entrepreneurs Lévé (WEL), a local organization that supports budding entrepreneurs by providing inspiration and information as they start their businesses.

He will replace Sam Raphael, who is expected to remain as a member of WEL’s board of directors.

As new President, Monelle will be calling on Dominicans, locally and abroad, to assist in finding and forming the next generation of collaborative and innovative business leaders, a release from the organization said.

Monelle is an investment services officer at Invest Dominica, and has already made a significant contribution to delivering WEL’s program in Dominica.

“He has also worked closely with the Dominica Manufacturing Association since 2010, as the technical officer attached to the secretariat. He is known for his calm presence, sharp delivery and commitment to developing enterprise and the entrepreneurial mindset in Dominica,” the release said.

WEL’s flagship event is an annual retreat held at Jungle Bay Dominica, during Global Entrepreneur Week in November. Further seminars called Reconnect are held throughout the year.

Since its inception 94 graduates, with 27 operational businesses have emerged from the program. Jodie’s Sweet Art, 365MMP and Nature’s Caress are a few examples of businesses that have grown under WEL’s stewardship.

WEL is presently on a  campaign, already viral, to raise funds for prosthetic legs for Dione Green, a 2013 graduate who succeeded in all the physical challenges of the program, including a hike up Paix Bouche.

Current board members are outgoing President – Sam Raphael,  Martha Cuffy – Vice-President, Judy Joyce- Secretary, Teetee Weisel, Peter Weisel, Dwight Trotman, Dafrica Thomas and Frederick Baron.