The Seamoss Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has opened what it calls “the region’s first dedicated Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre” in Bequia.
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the new centre marks a ground-breaking advancement in sustainable economic development within the Grenadines, a press release said.
Founder of the association, Shavorn Stephens, described the opening as a historic milestone for the islands, stating that the centre represents “a symbol of economic empowerment, cultural pride, and the resilience of our sea moss community.”
She noted the association’s gratitude to the Government of Canada and CFLI “for believing in our vision and investing in local people, local skills, and local innovation”.
Designed to uplift local producers, the storefront provides cultivators and small businesses with a specialised retail space to showcase products ranging from raw, dried sea moss to an expanding array of value-added innovations, including teas, gels, wellness blends, snacks, beverages, and skincare items.
The centre also features a dynamic interpretative section, offering educational displays on the history of sea moss in the Grenadines, cultivation practices, nutritional benefits, cultural significance, and the contributions of women who shaped and sustained the industry.
During the ceremony, a special tribute was paid to Ann Bernard Harvey, widely celebrated as the pioneer of sea moss cultivation on Union Island.
Marslyn Lewis, director of the Seamoss Association, in her citation, emphasised the significance of honouring her legacy, noting that “her courage, vision, and unwavering determination transformed seamoss from a simple marine plant into a lifeline for families across Union Island and the wider Grenadines. Her legacy lives on in every cultivator and every product produced today”.
Representing the Government of Canada, Jessica Mackie, senior political officer, highlighted Canada’s commitment to supporting sustainable, community-driven initiatives.
“… this sea moss centre not only uplifts small producers and women entrepreneurs but also preserves an important part of Grenadine heritage,” Mackie said, adding that the Government of Canada congratulates the association “for their leadership and dedication in bringing this inspiring project to life”.
Chief Fisheries Officer Jennifer Howard-Cruickshank reaffirmed the ministry’s strong support for the initiative, noting that sea moss cultivation remains one of the most resilient and community-rooted industries within the blue economy.
She said the opening of this Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre marks “a powerful step forward not only for the seamoss sector, but for the sustainable development of our marine resources”.
Howard-Cruickshank further commended the association and CFLI “for empowering cultivators, strengthening livelihoods, and honouring the heritage of our islands”.
The Seamoss Association maintains that this new facility is more than a marketplace; it is a cultural landmark and a learning hub where commerce, education, tradition, and innovation converge.
The centre is expected to increase local income opportunities, broaden consumer awareness, strengthen food security, and help propel St. Vincent and the Grenadines toward greater leadership in sustainable blue economy development.