Commissioner Krystal Patterson proudly presents Breaking Barriers: In Small Business, a free community event that celebrates entrepreneurship and connects small business owners with the resources they need to succeed.

Attendees will hear from a curated panel of local business owners and community partners.

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this is a space to connect, learn, and thrive. 

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Program

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Doors Open + Light Networking

11:05 AM – 11:10 AM

Opening Remarks & Introductions

Host: Suzette Speaks, Attorney & FM Radio Host, Voice of the Caribbean Radio
& Commissioner Krystal Patterson

11:10 AM – 11:50 AM

Panel 1: Building Blocks of Small Business

Moderator:
Shaheewa Gelin, Founder Broward Black Chamber of Commerce

Panelists:
Garry B. Louima, Esq., Managing Attorney, First Step Legal Solutions
Oyinka Coakley, “The Entrepreneur’s Professor,” COA Consulting Services LLC.
Sélines Silverio, Founder, Silverio Éxito Consulting

11:50 AM – 12:30 PM

Networking Break

Headshots • Light Bites • Music

12:30 PM – 1:10 PM

Panel 2: The Guide to Government
Moderator: 
Shaheewa Gelin, Founder Broward Black Chamber of Commerce

Panelists: 
Sandy-Michael E. McDonald, Director, Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development, 
Kenneth Lopez, Economic and Redevelopment Administrator for the City of Tamarac,
Daniel Vest, Procurement and Contracts Manager, City of Tamarac 

1:10 PM – 1:40 PM

Fireside Chat:
She Means Business – Stories of Strength, Success, and Shattering Ceilings
Speakers:
Michelle Caba, CEO & Founder of FAMA Agency
 & Commissioner Krystal Patterson

1:40 PM – 1:50 PM

The Breakthrough
Speaker:
Dr. Shanequa Fleming, Founder of Culture Accelerators® +
The Well Executive® | Forbes Contributor | TEDx Speaker

1:50 PM – 2:30 PM

Networking + Vendor Showcase
Refreshments Provided

Join Commissioner Krystal Patterson for the launch of her Breaking Barriers series with a powerful event focused on Small Business Development. This gathering brings together entrepreneurs, community leaders, and economic development partners for an engaging conversation on growing, networking, and empowering local business in Tamarac and beyond.