Latest update March 18th, 2025 3:14 AM
Feb 09, 2025 Features / Columnists, News, Waterfalls Magazine, Young entrepreneurs
“Young entrepreneurs have the unique purpose of creating new industries and opportunities, paving the way for innovation and growth in our society.”
By Allyiah Allicock
Kaieteur News- In a world where technology is evolving, making the impossible possible has been truly leaving a tremendous impact in our world today. With new inventions introduced everyday it pushes people to not only educate themselves but develop new skills.
Here in Guyana, there are countless times that new technologies and interventions have been impacting and transforming the lives of many.
Take for instance, Sheridan Wood and her husband Kenneth Parris who since August 2024 have been bringing people’s ideas to life through 3D printing.
With 3D printing services not widely known and available across our country, the couple decided last year to introduce their services through a business called FabLab.gy.
Speaking about their newly introduced business venture and what inspired them, Wood in a recent interview with The Waterfalls shared that “Our initial interest was in creating 3D-printed miniature architectural models, given my background in architecture. As we researched, we realized there weren’t any other companies locally offering this service. This motivated us to fill that gap.”
Wood said from there, they branched out to printing home décor items, props, figurines, and key chains.
For those unfamiliar, FabLab.gy is a 3D printing service that prints a variety of items, including cosplay/costume masks, decorative vases, jewelry boxes, and custom models for businesses or personal projects.
Speaking about their journey since their existence, the young entrepreneurs stated that when they first started, they had to figure out the most effective processes for 3D printing. “It was a lot of experimenting, learning how to use the machines, exploring different software, and becoming familiar with how to produce the best quality prints,” she explained.
She noted too that initially, they were not finding the most suitable materials, like the right type of filament for specific projects. However, through trial and error, they have learned what works and what does not and this she said has helped them consistently to improve the quality of their work.
Wood is also a teacher and digital artist with a passion for digital modeling and design. Her husband, she noted shares a love for technology, making them a great team for this venture. Also part of their team, Wood said, is her 17-year-old sister, who helps with content creation and product brainstorming. “Together, we’re committed to making FabLab.gy a go-to for 3D printing solutions in Guyana,” she added.
Already making an impact in the country, Wood expressed that so far, their support base has been wonderful. She related that family, friends, and early customers have been incredibly encouraging and have helped spread the word about their business.
“Their positive feedback motivates us to keep going,” she remarked.
Noting that this is only the beginning of a wonderful journey, Wood shared that their long-term goal moving on is to expand their services to include 3D-printed models for companies, particularly architectural prototypes, given her background in architecture.
“Additionally, we want to produce costume pieces for cultural celebrations like Mashramani, such as masks and accessories. The possibilities with 3D printing are endless,” she said.
With their aim to take their craft to the next level, Wood is of the view that as the Guyanese economy grows, new needs are constantly being discovered. She said this creates opportunities for businesses to thrive in ways that did not exist before.
She observed that, “Young entrepreneurs have the unique purpose of creating new industries and opportunities, paving the way for innovation and growth in our society.”
Asked what she thinks can be done more locally to help develop small businesses, the businesswoman suggested there should be more hosting of expo events with a lower barrier to entry.
“And creating more spaces like pop-up shops would help small businesses introduce their products and services to a wider audience. These opportunities allow businesses to connect with potential customers and build their presence in the community,” she commented
If anyone is interested in connecting with FabLab.gy, you can do so through telephone number (592) 610-6292, email @fablab.gy or their social media pages on Instagram/Facebook/TikTok @fablab.gy. Also their store location is at the Girl House, 92 Middle Street between Main and Carmichael Streets, Georgetown, Guyana.
(FabLab.gy bringing your ideas to life)
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