Small Talk, Big Links: Three Events, Meaningful Connections
LINKAGE Q3 (2026) - NAVIGATING UNCERTAINTY: SUSTAINABILITY, RESILIENCE AND THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS In July and September 2026, AMCHAM T&T’s Chamber Experience & Imaging (CEI) Committee hosted three editions of its Small Talk, Big Links (STBL) networking series, bringing members together for engaging conversations, practical insights and opportunities to build meaningful connections.Held across three different settings, the events explored topics ranging from the future of digital commerce and workplace wellbeing to planning for life’s major milestones – reflecting STBL’s focus on creating spaces where members can connect, learn and exchange ideas.The Future of Cashless CommerceThe series began on July 8 at Rizzoni’s Ristorante, where members gathered for “The Future of Cashless Commerce: What Every Business Leader Should Know.”The session featured Cristina Abreu, Director, Global Transaction Banking, Caribbean South & East, Scotiabank, who shared insights into emerging payment trends, fintech innovation and cybersecurity, while highlighting considerations for businesses as commerce becomes increasingly digital.Platinum Sponsor: Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago (l-r) Cristina Abreu, Director, Global Transaction Banking, Caribbean South & East | Scotiabank; Cindy Mohammed, Manager – Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility, Caribbean South and East, | Scotiabank; Nirad Tewarie – CEO | AMCHAM T&TBeyond Resilience: Addressing Burnout at Its SourceSTBL continued on July 29 at Xscape Lounge, Valpark, with a conversation focused on an issue affecting individuals and organisations alike: “Beyond Resilience: Addressing Burnout at Its Source.”Dr. Mitra Maharaj, Occupational Medicine Physician at Horizon Integrated Health Hub, led members through a discussion on recognising burnout, protecting mental wellbeing and creating healthier and more sustainable ways of working and living.Platinum Sponsor: Value Optical Gold Sponsor: bmobile Business AMCHAM T&T’s CEI Committee, led by Chair Estelle Narine (second from right), with Kelly Bainey, Director of Value Optical Ltd. (centre), and members of the Value Optical leadership team. Gold Sponsors – bMobile BusinessPlanning for Life’s BIG MomentsThe third STBL event took place on September 16 at Rizzoni’s Ristorante Italiano, focusing on “Planning For Life’s BIG Moments: Insurance Insights For Marriage, Home Ownership, Children, etc.”Jarod Perryman, Managing Director, ScotiaLife Trinidad & Tobago Limited | Regional Head, Insurance, Caribbean South & East, shared valuable insights on the role of proactive insurance planning in preparing for major milestones – from marriage and home ownership to starting a family – while helping individuals protect the people and goals that matter most.Platinum Sponsor: Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago (l-r) Kennedy Everett Maraj – Communications & Events Officer (AMCHAM T&T); Nicole Melville – Vice Chair (AMCHAM T&T CEI Committee) Jarod Perryman – Managing Director (ScotiaLife Trinidad & Tobago Limited) Kerry Rampersad – Acting CEO (Heritage Petroleum Company) & Director (AMCHAM T&T); and Estelle Narine – Chair (AMCHAM T&T CEO Committee)More Than NetworkingAcross all three events, members had the opportunity to step away from their usual routines, engage with industry experts and connect with fellow AMCHAM T&T members in relaxed and engaging settings.While each STBL session explored a different topic, the purpose remained consistent: creating opportunities for members to connect, exchange ideas, learn from one another and strengthen the relationships that support business and professional growth.The strong attendance across the three events demonstrates the value members place on opportunities to engage beyond the traditional business setting. By combining relevant conversations with meaningful networking, STBL continues to create a space where professional relationships can develop organically.Partner With UsAs AMCHAM T&T looks ahead to upcoming editions of Small Talk, Big Links, companies interested in connecting with the business community and supporting meaningful member engagement are invited to explore sponsorship opportunities.Interested in sponsoring an upcoming STBL event?Contact Kennedy Everett Maraj, Communications & Events Officer, AMCHAM T&T, at kennedymaraj@amchamtt.com to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how your organisation can partner with AMCHAM T&T to create meaningful experiences for its members. AMCHAM T&T’s Chamber Experience & Imaging (CEI) Committee)
