Min. Gaskin shares business knowledge with students
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, April 14, 2018
Students involved in the craft of jewellery making at the Burrowes School of Arts were today advised by the Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin to stay focused and be consistent with their work.
(from left) Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, Jewellery Arts Instructor at the Burrowes School of Arts, Deborah Phillipe, Administrator of the Burrowes School of Arts, Ivor Thom.
Addressing the Jewellery Arts students, the Minister said, “There are lots of opportunities in jewellery-making in Guyana…it’s a very viable career, you don’t learn overnight or would not get to your peak; but you started your course here, keep at it.”
After touring the classrooms and observing various pieces crafted by the students, Minister Gaskin explained that the correct handling and caring for equipment in the right way is vital in the jewellery industry.
As the owner of Topaz Jewellery, one of the premier jewellery manufacturers in Guyana, the minister also noted the importance of technology which he believes adds quality and efficiency in the design process.
Additionally, Minister Gaskin stressed that trust and good customer service are also important factors in the industry, “You have to maintain an honest relationship with customers…the trade works on trust.”
Minister Gaskin making an address to the Jewellery Arts students.
He added, “People are important in this trade…you cannot do everything alone…don’t try to do it alone. Include people in your plans whether as trainees, customers, colleagues. It’s a people center industry.”
Minister Gaskin guided the students to be involved in an environment that will be encouraging to them and will allow for direct access to the instructors when creating jewels.
Administrator for the Burrowes School of Art, Ivor Thom requested spots for selected students to carry out internship at the Minister’s Topaz Jewellery outlet, to which the Minister replied he will consider.
The Administrator and the students expressed gratitude to the Minister for sharing his experience and noted his advice will go a long way in assisting them in the jewellery industry.
The Burrowes School of Arts is an institution which is geared at training people to become professional artists, through courses such as, painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, textile designs, photography, jewellery and leather craft.
Minister Gaskin observes a student crafting a jewellery piece.
Minister Gaskin observes some of the jewellery pieces made by the students.
By: Crystal Stoll