owners to the forefront -- and present possible solutions.

It is being hosted by the Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation (BSBDC) at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.

Scheduled for the last Monday of the month, the event is entitled: Women and Entrepreneurship: Overcoming Issues and Challenges in the 21st Century.

It will showcase women entrepreneurs who have extensive knowledge and expertise on how to overcome challenges, while aiming to be successful in business.

Presenters will include Deborah Tannock of the Esso City Automart, Sheilagh Robertson of the Harbourmaster, Rhona Emmerson of Advertising Associates and Antoinette Bolden of Emerald Financial Ltd.

There will also be an interactive panel discussion featuring moderator Michelle Khaldun, senior manager, business banking at the Bank of N.T.

Butterfield.

A dynamic group of women on the panel will include president of W.J. Seymour Real Estate, Cheryl Ann Lister, Doris Goodman of the Children's Book Shop, Donna Pearman of the People's Pharmacy, Merle Brock Swan Williams of the Adult Education School and Lovette Brangman, who is retired from the Toddler Garten Nursery School.

Women entrepreneurs are the fastest growing segment of the US economy. New start up out paced all other business growth in all 50 states.

BSBDC business development officer, Karla Smith, said, "With statistics like these, it is not surprising that the number of women-owned businesses in Bermuda is definitely on the rise and it is recognised that there are issues which need to be addressed immediately, to ensure success and development for Bermuda's women entrepreneurs.

"We polled 115 female entrepreneurs and the following problems were echoed: financing/cash flows, finding and keeping good employees, start-up problems, no role models, and not knowing who to ask and where to go for help. "This seminar will focus on these vital issues in an attempt to assist businesses with their continued growth and success in Bermuda.'' BUSINESS BUC