Speakers

You can only achieve the best by working with the best. This is why for the Social Media Conference Suriname 2024 we've put together a team of local and international speakers that are the best at what they do.

SMCS24

Speakers

Keynote Speakers

Jean-luc van Charante

Jean-luc van Charante is a loving father, husband, entrepreneur and avid social media user with strong love for Suriname. As CEO of INEFFABLE he helps different companies and brands understand the world of Social Media and Online Marketing so they can communicate with their audience in a relatable way.

Leslie Lee Fook

Leslie Lee Fook is a name of legend in the business world. His revolutionary digital transformation strategies and expert knowledge are unrivalled, making him one of the most sought-after figures on Caribbean shores. His career spans over twenty years with experience in Analytics, Robotic Process Automation, and Artificial Intelligence. Typically serving enterprise and government customers, he aspires to create a globally competitive region using data which positively impacts every Caribbean life!

Lia Bliss

Lia Bliss is a globally recognized LinkedIn expert, coach, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping professionals and businesses adapt and thrive in the digital age. With years of experience in sales enablement and LinkedIn training, Lia Bliss brings deep insight and practical strategies to her presentations. Lia enables leaders and their teams to master their online presence and leverage LinkedIn for business growth. She has trained over 100,000 professionals in using LinkedIn algorithms, social selling, and the daily habits needed to build engagement. Lia's mission is to empower others to unlock their potential in this rapidly evolving digital landscape. Her keynote 'LinkedIn Mastery: Adapting to the Digital Age' will provide actionable guidance for professionals to optimize their LinkedIn presence and capitalize on digital opportunities.

Paul Barbato

Geography Now, YouTube's first geography-dedicated channel covering profiles on every country in the world completes 10-year long project finishing off with last country episode Zimbabwe in October 2024 and kicks off a world traveling tour in Suriname!

Individual Sessions

Nigel Hintzen

Nigel has a natural affinity for numbers, making his transition into finance seamless. He specializes in creating detailed financial models that forecast business trends and support crucial decisions. His forward-thinking approach anticipates financial challenges and opportunities, positioning businesses for future success. Known for simplifying complex financial data into actionable insights, he is a valuable asset to any stakeholder. Outside of work, Nigel enjoys reading and dedicating time to personal growth, applying the discipline and motivation that also drive his career. He's passionate about mentoring future accountants, sharing his expertise to shape the next generation of finance professionals.

Raoul Brahim

Raoul Brahim’s journey to creating an employee-centric culture at Adept began with a shift in mindset. Rather than focusing on maximizing profit for a single shareholder, Raoul asked himself: "How can all employees benefit?" This realization marked a turning point, as he re-evaluated what truly mattered to him. Instead of chasing external measures of success, Raoul prioritized what brought him joy and fulfillment. This new perspective helped him redefine success on his own terms, ultimately leading to a culture where every employee thrives. Now, Raoul is eager to share how finding his own “enough” transformed both his life and the company.

Workshops

Enrico Bommel

Enrico (Rico) Bommel is the co-founder of Su Yum Foods and Zero Dollar Strategy, known for his innovative marketing strategies that propel businesses to new heights. His entrepreneurial journey began with Su Yum Foods, where he effectively leveraged social media to drive growth and measurable results. A dedicated advocate for Surinamese business owners, Rico has inspired thousands through impactful community initiatives. His commitment to positive change in Suriname led to the creation of Zero Dollar Strategy, facilitating new marketing techniques and collaborative projects. Outside of social media, Rico is a true jack of all trades, building a seasoned career over the past 11 years since moving to the USA. He has gained extensive experience across various industries, including industrial construction, architecture, and utilities and power distribution engineering, allowing him to achieve work-life balance and dedicate more time to helping other businesses through social media. Rico’s strong work ethic and perseverance demonstrate that growth and manifestation are non-negotiable in everything he undertakes. He is passionate about teaching others the value of uplifting one another and fostering mutual growth.

Jennifer Radke

Jennifer is an international speaker, author, and business leader. Currently, she leads the National Institute for Social Media and OMCP (Online Marketing Certified Professionals), two digital marketing certification bodies that help professionals stand out and build their confidence, credibility, and collaboration through industry credentials. She is a trainer at her core and is passionate about helping professionals build and grow their scope of expertise. First international speaker at the Social Media Conference Suriname and honored to be back this year.

Krieshen Ramkhelawan

With nearly 20 years of geospatial experience, Krieshen Ramkhelawan, Director of GISsat N.V., helps companies transform through location data. He turns complex geospatial insights into actionable results, improving efficiency, driving growth, and enhancing customer engagement. His expertise spans geo-marketing and innovative decision-making using GIS technology.

Gail Meyer

Gail is a serial Entrepreneur who loves to collaborate, add structure and operational excellence to small and large organizations while advocating equality. As a seasoned project manager who started her career at KPMG World Class IT in the Netherlands, her focus is currently on taking her organization, OTNV, to the next level by delivering high-quality internationally accredited programs to corporates transforming them to adopt a culture of accountability.

Selisia Verwey

Selisia Verwey Frankly has been with DOOR Advisory for 10 years as a Senior Research Advisor and Business Analyst. She delivers customized business solutions through deep data analysis and strategic insights. Her passion for social media and customer focus make her a key team member, blending analytical skills with an innovative approach to create sustainable results. An active social media user, she stays ahead of trends and understands evolving customer needs.

Gail Soemodihardjo

Gail is a multi-lingual Content Creator with a passion for social media marketing and education. She specializes in crafting compelling visual content that captures attention and drives engagement. Her expertise includes creating visually stunning landingpages, social media content through graphic design and project management. She thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoy collaborating with diverse teams to achieve a common goal.

Panel Discussions

Jerry Sadiek

As the Marketing Manager at The Kuldipsingh Group for over 24 years, Jerry has played a key role in shaping marketing strategies for the nine Kuldipsingh sister companies, leading a dedicated team to ensure corporate success. Outside of work, Jerry is a proud father, passionate musician, and accomplished draughts player. His diverse expertise in both business and creativity will inspire attendees to think outside the box and develop solid strategies.

Shaquille van Zichem

Shaquille van Zichem is a professional MMA fighter who has been a full-time athlete since 2020. Even during his amateur career, MMA was his main focus. Thanks to a solid marketing plan, creative thinking, and a determined mindset, Shaquille secured numerous sponsorship deals, allowing him to cover expenses such as international training camps.

Anvit Ramlakhan

Dr. Anvit Ramlakhan is a trailblazing young leader from Suriname, holding several noteworthy achievements such as: being the youngest ex-manager at Telesur, youngest and current CEO of Datasur, youngest ex-chairman of Suriname Business Youth, youngest ex-chairman of ICT Association Suriname. Furthermore, he's the first and youngest Surinamese lector at Poly Technic College in the field of Innovation and Technology and is also part time lecturer at three other universities. He has achieved distinction in two masters (M.Sc. and MBA) from ARU-UK and highest honors for his Ph.D. in information technology studies. Anvit is an unwavering example of hard work, dedication, and Surinamese youth talent, embodying excellence in leadership across various domains he is contributing. His statement is: “ We as young Surinamese, ignite innovation and entrepreneurship! Our dreams fuel our nation’s future. Let's pioneer change, defy limits, and shape a prosperous tomorrow together!"

Furgell Pinas

Furgell Pinas is a dedicated Surinamese professional with a strong background in the ICT sector. Currently, he serves as the manager of Business Innovation & Development, focusing on innovation and organizational growth. Since February 2024, he has also been the chairman of the ICT Association Suriname (ICT-As), where he promotes digital transformation and ICT development in the country. Known for his versatility and commitment, Pinas is an avid sports enthusiast, reflecting his passion for both sports and technology as he strives to contribute to Suriname's progress.

Erika van der Mark

Erika van der Mark, creator of Truthversation™, is a friendly and driven entrepreneur dedicated to improving the well-being of others for the past 10 years. As the Director of Journey to Horizon N.V., she aims to help individuals connect genuinely with one another. Through Truthversation™, Erika emphasizes the importance of finding one's truth as a fundamental skill for authentic communication. Journey to Horizon offers guidance for holistic internal development, helping clients break past conditioning, build emotional resilience, and establish genuine relationships.

Sharda Johnn

Discussing the effects of social media use on ones mental health. Personal experience What are the negative effects? How can we prevent social media from taking over our life, how to stay in charge.

Shriya Goerdayal

Meet Shriya Goerdayal, a dynamic marketing expert with 9 years of experience in the field. At 31, Shriya has built an outstanding portfolio, working with leading companies such as Suriname Alcoholic Beverages (SAB), Kersten Motors, and doing Community Management for De Surinaamsche Bank (DSB) and Surinaamse Brouwerij. Currently, she holds the position of Marketing Manager at Rudisa Group of Companies, where she plays a key role in driving the marketing strategy for companies like Burger King.

Jeanine Recappé

She is the passionate and enthusiastic Marketing Manager of McDonald's Suriname, with a love for food. Born in Moengo, she moved to Paramaribo at 16. She studied International Tourism & Leisure Management but gained work experience in Marketing. Outside of work, she enjoys food, the gym, dancing, and spiritual and mental development.

Beverly Cadogan

As a marketing professional with over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I specialize in creating fun, out-of-the-box strategies that drive brand engagement and customer loyalty. With a focus on innovation and building genuine connections, I help brands shine through creative campaigns and memorable experiences. I’m passionate about staying ahead of trends and constantly refining my craft to deliver impactful results.

Derrick Klaverweide

Commercial Director Optiek NINON

Giorgio de la Fuente

Giorgio de la Fuente is a Surinamese filmmaker, cinematographer, and colorist with over a decade of experience. He has worked on commercials, music videos, social media content, documentaries, and films. Key projects include Gow2: Energy To Go (2022) and Hanappier: NYAKU in Paradise (2023). His music video Kenki Yu Yeye Tide won Best Suripop Video Clip 2022. In 2023, the Sranan Folktales episode Asema, which he worked on, won four awards. Giorgio is highly regarded for his cinematography and color grading, contributing to Suriname’s vibrant film industry.

Sergeo Dyon

Sergeo London Dyon, also known as Skitzo London, is a Surinamese film producer who has been creating content online for 10 years. He loves experimenting, which leads him to explore various methods to improve his quality.

Jill Cassie

Jill Cassie is a filmmaker focused on inspiring and showcasing (especially dance) talent in Suriname. Additionally, she and her team work as social marketing consultants and content creators.

Rebecca Issa

Rebecca, from BB&M Marketing, is passionate about creating content, sports, writing, and art. She focuses on social media marketing, particularly on speaking the right brand language to connect with the audience online. She has recently started studying Communication Management at UNISAT. Outside of work and study, she enjoys going to the gym, spending time with friends and family, and being outdoors with ice cream, fries, and drinks, or filming.

Ritesh Sardjoe

He is a seasoned marketer with over 5 years of experience in online marketing. Currently working at Telesur, he began his career at a digital marketing agency at the young age of 20. His expertise lies in crafting effective online marketing strategies to reach and engage target audiences.

Chavelli Wip

Chavelli Wip manages London Communicatie, a leading communication and branding agency in Suriname. She takes communication seriously, believing that the right way of communicating is essential for effectively telling your story.

Warsha Sardjoe

Warsha Sardjoe: A Multifaceted Leader Shaping the Business Landscape Warsha Sardjoe, a visionary CEO and dedicated mother, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the corporate world. She has become a driving force behind the success of Rudisa Group: 29 companies spanning across 7 countries. Warsha's dynamic leadership has propelled her family business to new heights. As a polyglot, Warsha effortlessly communicates in five languages, allowing her to bridge cultural gaps and forge meaningful connections across borders, reflecting her commitment to embracing diversity and nurturing global collaborations. Warsha possesses a vibrant personality that extends into her personal life. A loving mother to her pride and joy, Sky, she cherishes the joys of motherhood. In her free time she engages in activities such as reading, cooking, and occasionally indulging her creativity through painting.

Mario Merhai

Mario Merhai is the CEO of Assuria Insurance, where he has worked since 1997. He started as a staff officer and rose to CEO through realistic ambitions, careful planning, and dedication. With a degree in Actuarial Sciences from the University of Amsterdam, Mario gained valuable experience at Tillinghast-Towers Perrin and Mercer. Inspired by his father and former Assuria CEO Stephen Smit, he is committed to fostering an environment centered on integrity, professionalism, and growth, with a strong passion for using his expertise to benefit Suriname.

Chermain Pansa

Chermain Pansa was born in the heartland of Suriname, the district of Brokopondo, on May 7th, 1994. She is a full-time professional with an educational background in International Law. Chermain is employed by the Sustainable Development division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business, and International Cooperation. Chermain has been active as an activist in the field of youth participation and development since 2013. In addition to her daily job, Chermain has been an event planner at Major Key Events since 2016 and became the manager of the artist Kater Karma in December 2021.