Dr Joy Over-Agness to elevate Guyana’s entrepreneurial mindset

The World Trade Centre will be the hub of inspiration and innovation on January 13, 2026, as Reverend Dr Joy Over-Agness of Joy Events International brings her renowned expertise to Guyana with a one-day certification workshop titled Reshaping Your Mindset for Success.

The South Florida–based powerhouse, whose portfolio includes crafting events for President Barack Obama and elevating Caribbean entrepreneurs to global recognition, is no stranger to international stages.
Now, she turns her attention to Guyana, aiming to equip local entrepreneurs with the mindset and tools needed to succeed in the event industry – and beyond.
During a recent interview with the renowned Over-Agness, she expressed that she is looking forward to the event.
“I am so looking forward to presenting at this conference because a lot of it is going to be the meat and potatoes of developing this rapidly growing country into the mindset of business,” Dr Over-Agness told attendees ahead of the event.
“This is for entrepreneurs who know what they want to do and what they want to become.”
She also shared her excitement about bringing international talent to Guyana. “I am going to bring in a well-known, international, renowned speaker, a floral designer, and a very good friend of mine. Their knowledge and creativity will complement the workshop, giving attendees a broader understanding of global standards in the event industry,” she said.
Beyond high-profile speakers, Dr Over-Agness is looking forward to hands-on learning, interactive discussions, and practical insights.
“We’re going to focus on strategies that attendees can apply immediately to their businesses, from planning and execution to marketing and client relations. I want people to leave with skills they can use and confidence they can carry anywhere.”
The workshop is aimed at individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset. Dr Over-Agness emphasised that anyone looking to succeed in the event industry – or any business – would greatly benefit from attending the conference, and she encouraged all aspiring entrepreneurs not to miss the opportunity.
Participants will also walk away with a certification, a tangible acknowledgement of their commitment and achievement. “This isn’t a fly-by-night situation,” Dr Over-Agness said. “You can go anywhere and feel comfortable knowing that you have attended this, and this is your part of your accreditation for what you can do.”
Her mission extends beyond teaching event planning. Dr Over-Agness is passionate about raising hospitality standards in Guyana. “My real intention is to see the hospitality in Guyana bump itself up a little more,” she said candidly. “Growing up here, I had a lot of opportunities, and I want to give back by showing what’s possible when passion meets preparation.”
Dr Over-Agness also highlighted the opportunity for networking and collaboration. “I’m excited for attendees to meet like-minded entrepreneurs, share ideas, and form connections that can take their businesses to the next level. That’s one of the most rewarding parts of these workshops — seeing people leave inspired and ready to act.”
In addition to her work as a global events expert, Dr Over-Agness is an adjunct professor at Miami-Dade and Broward Colleges, teaching wedding and event planning and English to Spanish-speaking students. Her dual roles as educator and entrepreneur inform the practical, high-impact approach of the upcoming workshop.
Reflecting on why she chose Guyana, she said, “This is not my first conference here. Four years ago, I held a conference at the Princess Hotel, and I’m back to allow Guyanese citizens the opportunity to gain a bigger picture, a broader mindset of what events should look like, including the little corners they may not have considered. Hospitality in Guyana needs tightening, and I say that openly and freely.”
For those ready to elevate their mindset, learn from global experts, and embrace new possibilities, January 13 at the World Trade Centre promises to be more than just a workshop – it’s a chance to reshape success and bring international standards to Guyana.