Minutes of the International Association ofBusiness Communicators (IABC) Barbados Chapter Annual General Meeting

Date: January 25, 2024
Venue: Meeting Room, Frank Collymore Hall, Central Bank of Barbados
Time: 6:00 PM

1. Call to Order
   The meeting was called to order by President Dr. Pamala Proverbs, who welcomed members and
   guests. She expressed appreciation for the executive team’s dedication and highlighted the
   importance of IABC as a professional association for business communicators in Barbados.
2. President’s Report
   Dr. Proverbs presented an overview of the association’s activities in 2023. Key highlights
   included:
    Advocacy for professional development in the business communication field.
    Networking and training sessions aimed at strengthening communication standards in
   Barbados.
    The need for increased membership engagement and the promotion of IABC as a union
   of professional communicators to ensure high standards in the industry.
    The importance of reputation management, sentiment analysis, and agenda-building as
   key skills for communicators.
   Dr. Proverbs emphasized that the success of the organization depends on active participation
   from members and encouraged continued involvement.
3. Financial Report
   VP Finance, Alicia Bascombe, presented the financial report, summarizing:
    The organization’s financial position, noting that while funds remained stable, there is a
   need to generate additional revenue.
    The primary source of income was from the April Professional Development (PD) event.
    Challenges in receiving quarterly remittances from IABC International and the board’s
   intention to follow up to secure the outstanding payments.
    The importance of members paying their annual fees on time to sustain operations.

 A recommendation to host one large revenue-generating event per year to supplement
membership fees and sponsorships.

4. Membership and Outreach
    It was acknowledged that the organization needs to grow its membership base,
   particularly by reaching out to PR and marketing professionals, agencies, and business
   leaders.
    Members discussed the need for strategic outreach to communication professionals who
   may not realize the value of IABC membership.
    The importance of engaging younger professionals and students was also highlighted.
5. Constitutional Changes
   VP Administration, Janelle Riley-Thornhill, presented proposed amendments to the Constitution:
6. Term Extension for Elected Officers:
   o The President and other elected officers shall serve a two-year term instead of one
   year.
   o There will be no limit on consecutive terms if no other candidates contest the
   position.
7. Election Process:
   o Elections will be held every two years. If an incumbent is unopposed, they may
   continue their tenure.
   o A mechanism for leadership transition and mentorship was suggested to ensure
   continuity.

These amendments were discussed, and a motion was moved to approve the amendments. It was
approved by the membership in attendance.

6. Elections for 2024-2026 Term
   Elections were held for the executive committee. The following members were re-elected
   unopposed:
    President: Dr. Pamala Proverbs
    VP Administration: Janelle Riley-Thornhill
    VP Finance: Alicia Bascombe
    VP Professional Development: Fay Cooke Nurse
    VP Communications & Marketing: Nikisha Toppin
    VP Membership: Javier Reid

Members were encouraged to express interest in joining the Board or serving on committees.

7. Upcoming Events & Initiatives
   President Proverbs discussed the following proposed events and initiatives:
    Professional Development Events:
   o Plans to host a major regional conference in early 2025, focusing on crisis
   communications and internal communications.
   o Plans to strengthen local networking and training sessions.
    Accreditation & Awards:
   o Encouraging members with 5+ years of experience to pursue IABC accreditation.
   o Reintroducing the Silver Quill Awards in Barbados to recognize excellence in
   communication.

 Strengthening Membership Engagement:
o Plans to boost regional collaboration, particularly with professionals from the
Eastern Caribbean.

Adjournment
With all agenda items discussed, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM. Members were
encouraged to stay engaged and contribute actively to the association’s growth in 2024 and
beyond.

Any Other Business
 Members discussed strategies to increase industry recognition of IABC Barbados and its
contributions.
 A mentorship program was proposed to guide young professionals entering the field.
 The importance of corporate partnerships and sponsorships was reiterated to sustain
operations.