Guardian Group presented the Innovative Entrepreneur Award to Mahalia Joseph, an agri-processing and manufacturing business owner at the 2024 National Entrepreneurship Awards on Saturday 3^rd August, 2024 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad. Guardian Group was one of eight (8) Platinum Sponsors at the National Entrepreneurship Development Company’s (NEDCO) event which recognises the outstanding accomplishments of local entrepreneurs.

The Innovative Entrepreneur Award celebrates innovation in emerging and traditional industries that has resulted in higher levels of productivity, growth or efficiency. Miss Joseph has expanded her business beyond the processing of local herbs and spices to launching a solar powered dirt battery—a cheaper, eco-friendly form of energy which she has incorporated into her agri-processing and manufacturing business to help manage electricity consumption and costs.  

Gregg Mannette, Vice President – Sales, Guardian Life of The Caribbean who presented the award said, “Guardian Group congratulates Miss Joseph on her achievement. This is precisely the type of creativity we want to encourage among emerging business owners. Don’t be afraid to dream or approach challenges from extraordinary perspectives.”

He continued, “Entrepreneurs are at the forefront of innovation—developing new technologies, products and services—that contribute to diversification and a more dynamic and adaptable workforce. We applaud and celebrate all the awardees.”

Guardian Group’s sponsorship of the National Entrepreneurship Awards is part of its commitment to entrepreneurial development, creativity and innovation in Trinidad and Tobago and the region.

Guardian Group has a track record of supporting entrepreneurial development through a variety of sponsorships, which include the National Secondary School Entrepreneurship Competition (NSSEC), and NEDCO’s Business Accelerator Programme.