101: From Island Boy to Fintech Visionary - The Journey of a Bahamian Olympian | Nicholas Rees
Description
In this episode, we are with Nicholas Rees; a digital payment specialist, chartered accountant, private equity investor, and two-time Olympian from the Bahamas.
Nicholas discusses his PPP business model - People, Planet, Profit - and his multifaceted career journey from an Olympic swimmer to founding several businesses, including his successful digital payments platform, Kanoo.
He elaborates on his family's storied history, educational background, and extensive entrepreneurial ventures, such as his innovative water company, Everfresh. Nicholas also provides insight into Kanoo's operations, its role in the Bahamian digital currency ecosystem, digital financial inclusion efforts, and strategic acquisitions, including the recent acquisition of Trinidad-based fintech, LUHU.
He emphasizes the importance of technology investment in the Caribbean and shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.
Chapters:
02:50 Nicholas Rees' Early Life and Family Legacy
06:31 From Swimming to Business: The Transition
08:28 The Struggles and Triumphs of Starting a Business
10:48 The Water Business: A Social Impact Story
16:05 Educational Pursuits and Career Milestones
24:57 The Birth and Growth of Kanoo
29:21 Kanoo's Vision and Future Plans
31:13 Empowering Businesses with Digital Tools
34:05 The Sand Dollar: Bahamas' Digital Currency
36:57 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Payments
40:03 Financial Inclusion in Remote Areas
45:05 Kanoo's Strategic Acquisitions and Partnerships
57:18 Investment Opportunities in Caribbean Tech
01:01:37 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
01:03:53 Conclusion and Farewell
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