News report: BCCEC announces partnership with e-commerce marketplace

BCCEC
Jul 18
2 min read

Published by Youri Kemp, The Nassau Guardian, July 18, 2025

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) has announced a new partnership with an e-commerce marketplace that it said will open doors for Bahamian creators.

“Voyij.com, a mission-driven e-commerce marketplace connecting travelers with local artisans and small businesses, has partnered with the BCCEC and the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas (NAGB) to debut the Bahamian edition of its acclaimed Locals Onboard program,” said the release.

Dr. Leo Rolle, chief executive officer of the BCCEC, emphasized the impact of the partnership, contending that, “The creation of this platform opens doors for Bahamian creators and entrepreneurs to engage global audiences in a powerful way. The Chamber sees the economic and cultural boast this initiative affords The Bahamas as a natural extension of our mandate and commitment to enhancing the business community, so we are elated about the endless prospects curated.”

The release continued: “The program, now in its third year, first launched in Alaska in 2023 with launch partner Royal Caribbean International, and is now offered onboard six cruise line companies. In 2025, the program expanded to the Caribbean region, debuting with Bahamians from Nassau and Exuma.

“Bahamian cultural ambassadors are invited to sail and share their expertise onboard select cruise sailings, offering cruise guests a rich, immersive experience of Bahamian heritage through live demonstrations, storytelling, and sustainably made local goods.”

“Our Bahamian partners are sharing more than products, they’re sharing perspective, pride, and personal stories,” said Voyij co-founder Olivia Klupar. “This kind of exchange turns tourism into a true connection.”

The release added: “Curated in collaboration with the BCCEC and NAGB, ‘Locals Onboard Presented by Voyij.com’ spotlights handcrafted goods and authentic cultural experiences while supporting the country’s small business economy. Guests engage directly with makers, learn the stories behind their creations, and purchase products through Voyij’s onboard events and digital platform.

“Voyij’s Bahamian program continues to expand in 2025 with a new collaboration with Nassau Cruise Port businesses.”

Maelynn Ford, executive director of NAGB, noted: “The opportunity to partner with Voyij has come at a time when we are trying to highlight that tourism is much more than sun, sand and sea, it is immersion into a different and vibrant culture. This program allows for guests to begin that immersion on the cruise ship with Bahamians who are artists, craftsman, and culture builders. It’s a great program.”

Read the report here >>> https://www.thenassauguardian.com/business/bccec-announces-partnership-with-e-commerce-marketplace/article_eaefa6ce-1f78-48a3-9ffb-bb5daae6937d.html