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  September 16 - 17, 2025 Miami, Florida

Agenda

CARIF 2025 offers two impactful days of forward-thinking discussions, high-level interviews with top leaders, incisive panel discussions, in-depth workshops, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

Leading players will tackle the most critical issues shaping the Caribbean’s infrastructure landscape, including:

  • Geopolitics, the world economy, and the implications for Caribbean infrastructure
  • Mobilizing Private Capital: Is investor appetite for Caribbean assets on the rise?
  • How can the region better leverage PPPs for infrastructure?
  • Delivering energy security through grid resilience
  • The persistent challenge of NRW: designing and financing effective programs to reduce losses
  • Deep Dive – Guyana – big plans for infrastructure
  • Is infrastructure keeping up with the tourism boom?
  • Sustainable aviation and airport infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth
  • Digitalization & Connectivity: A conversation on trends, successes and shortcomings in the Caribbean
  • Food Security & the economic opportunity of agriculture
  • Best practices to bolster health infrastructure in the Caribbean

Away from the CARIF Main Stage, we invite attendees to meet the market through numerous structured and unstructured networking opportunities, including the fountain-side cocktail reception, networking-enhanced thematic roundtables and deep-dive workshops, and to celebrate achievements over the past year in the annual CARIF Awards ceremony.

Tuesday

September 16
8:00-8:45

Registration and Exhibition

8:45-9:00

Chairperson Welcome & Interactive Scene Setter

  • Gillian Charles-Gollop

    CIBC Caribbean
    Executive Director, Corporate Banking & Sustainable Finance

9:00-9:30

Interactive Scene-Setter: Geopolitical Shifts, Volatility, and the Impact on Caribbean Infrastructure

A data-based assessment of global economic dynamics, the impact on the Caribbean infrastructure space and best adaptation strategies.

  • How can infrastructure investment be used as a tool for economic resilience and inclusive growth in the Caribbean?
  • What forecasting tools and data insights are needed to navigate rising costs and shifting capital flows?
  • Where are the emerging opportunities for strategic infrastructure development in a constrained global economy?

  • Risa Grais-Targow

    Eurasia Group
    Director, Latin America

9:30-10:15

Ministers Talk: Infrastructure as a Driver of Economic Growth

The annual CARIF Ministerial panel featuring a high-level exchange on:

  • National infrastructure priorities and flagship projects underway across the region
  • Development strategies aimed at modernization, sustainability, and investment readiness
  • Regional cooperation initiatives focused on energy security, food resilience, and connectivity—both physical and digital

  • Hon. Spencer R. Brand Arch

    Nevis Island Administration
    Minister of Communication, Public Works, Water Services, Physical Planning & Environment, Posts, Labour and Disaster Management

  • Dr. the Hon. William F. Duguid

    Republic of Barbados
    Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office

  • Richard Threlfall

    KPMG International
    Global Head of Infrastructure, Government, Healthcare and Transport Moderator

10:15-11:00

Securing the Flow of Funding into Caribbean Infrastructure: Who Is Stepping Up and Stepping In?

Amid geopolitical shifts and fiscal pressure, how can the Caribbean region secure a steady, reliable flow of funding to support essential infrastructure projects?

  • How can the region diversify funding sources to reduce reliance on any single donor or partner and build long-term funding resilience?
  • What near-term strategies can fill funding gaps for priority projects?
  • How does the Bridgetown Initiative 3.0 reshape access to development and climate-related funding for Caribbean nations?
  • What role do cost-recovery tools—such as user tariffs, government subsidies, and donor contributions—play in enabling financially sustainable service delivery?
  • How is the landscape of Chinese public-sector funding and grant-making evolving in the region, and what are the implications for strategic alignment and governance?
  • How can Caribbean governments strengthen institutional capacity to deploy funding more efficiently?

  • Tamara Fathi

    Export Development Canada
    Chief Representative for the Andean Region, Central America and the Caribbean

  • Jesse McDougall

    UK Export Finance
    Head of Export Finance, USA, Mexico, and the English-Speaking Caribbean

  • David Mogollon Huerta

    The European Union
    Head of Cooperation to Barbados, Eastern Caribbean States, the OECS, and CARICOM

  • Stacy Richards-Kennedy

    CAF - Development Bank of Latin America
    Regional Manager for the Caribbean, Corporate Vice Presidency for Strategic Programming

  • Devindranauth Bissoon

    Green Climate Fund
    Senior Infrastructure Specialist Moderator

11:00-11:45

Refreshments and Networking

11:45-12:30

Is Investor Appetite for Caribbean Assets on the Rise?

What do investors want to see from the region to increase their investment confidence?  How can increased private sector participation, and the associated innovative know-how, impact the infrastructure pipeline?

  • The importance of guarantors is increasing in delivering successful transactions. Will this trend continue?
  • What innovations in financing mechanisms and programs have been most successful and what is on the horizon?
  • How can the region attract new investors to the space, specifically institutional investors?

  • Adam Carter

    CIBC Caribbean
    Managing Director and Head, Investment Banking, Forex, and Derivative Sales

  • Ian Chin

    Ansa Merchant Bank Limited
    General Manager, Corporate & Investment Banking

  • Kelly Marshall

    Sagicor General Insurance Inc.
    Vice President Reinsurance

  • Barry O’Brien

    Williams Caribbean Capital
    Co-founder and Group CEO

  • Mandisa Regrello

    Dentons
    Partner and Head of Banking and Finance Practice Group,Trinidad and Tobago Moderator

12:35-12:45

IDB InfraScope: And the Region’s PPP Profile

Infrascope is a benchmarking index and tool used to assess the capacity of countries to implement public-private partnerships in infrastructure. Commissioned by the IDB and developed by the Economist Impact since 2009, it evaluates the enabling environment for PPPs in 26 Latin American and Caribbean countries.

  • Pablo Pereira dos Santos

    Inter-American Development Bank
    Principal PPP Specialist

12:45-1:15

Case-Study: How Can the Region Better Leverage PPPs for Infrastructure?

Via two case studies, this session considers the evolving nature and expanded use of PPPs for Caribbean infrastructure.

  • Innovative contract structures for risk allocation: What is working best?
  • What structures must be in place to attract maximum private investment?
  • How to optimize service delivery and operational efficiencies, especially in critical infrastructure
  • Leveraging PPPs to meet climate and resilience goals

  • Cristina Simón

    IDB Invest
    Social Infrastructure Team

1:15-2:30

Networking Lunch

2:30-3:00

Guyana’s Ambitious Infrastructure Agenda

As Guyana works to bridge its infrastructure gap in step with its rapid economic growth, what is the long-term vision—and what near-term priorities will ensure the delivery of resilient, citizen-focused development?

  • When can we expect the launch of a comprehensive national infrastructure plan, and what are its headline goals?
  • How is the administration operationalizing its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), and what are the key milestones on the horizon?
  • With connectivity a national priority, how will ongoing investments in roads and bridges transform transportation and trade—regionally and nationally?
  • What role are multilateral institutions playing in supporting Guyana’s infrastructure transformation, particularly in areas of transport resilience, energy modernization, and climate adaptation?

  • Diletta Doretti

    The World Bank
    Country Representative, Guyana

  • Khishan Singh

    GAICO Inc. | Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana
    Operations Director | Vice President

3:00-3:30

Catalyzing Innovation for Caribbean Infrastructure: Developing Scalable Solutions for Energy, Agriculture, and Ocean Sustainability

  • Arnaud van Dijk

    KPMG in the Cayman Islands
    Partner, ESG

3:30-4:15

Tackling Water Infrastructure Challenges With Fresh Solutions

How can islands design and finance more effective programs to modernize water and waste-water systems? How can the region lean into innovations in technology and financing structures?

  • The persistent challenge of NRW: What is working to reduce losses? 
  • Desalination and the clean energy need: What are the most economically viable solutions?
  • What innovative financing solutions can be pursued to modernize aging water infrastructure and build new facilities on islands?
  • Case study review

  • Hon. Spencer R. Brand Arch

    Nevis Island Administration
    Minister of Communication, Public Works, Water Services, Physical Planning & Environment, Posts, Labour and Disaster Management

  • Henry J. Charrabe

    Seven Seas Water Group
    Chief Executive Officer

  • Timothée Delabarre

    Vinci Construction
    Country Manager

  • Neysa Isenia

    Aqualectra
    Chief Financial Officer

  • Nick St. Georges

    Integrated Sustainability Consultants Ltd.
    Vice President, International

4:15-4:30

Refreshments and Networking

4:30-5:00

Harnessing AI & Digital Innovation for Smarter Island Infrastructure

As Caribbean nations seek to modernize infrastructure and improve service delivery, how can digital innovation and AI accelerate this transformation? Guided by polling and expert commentary, this session examines the strategic integration of AI, e-Government tools, and digital infrastructure solutions to improve project design, execution, and long-term maintenance—tailored specifically to island realities.

  • What are the most impactful applications of AI and digital tools in the Caribbean infrastructure landscape today?
  • How can island states adapt global smart infrastructure solutions to fit local needs and capacities?
  • What role can digital twins play in planning and sustaining smarter infrastructure systems?
  • How can multilateral partners and the private sector collaborate to support this digital transition?

  • Tamaisha Eytle

    FutureBARBADOS | Possibilities Agency
    Director | Executive Director

  • Mark Hill

    Export Barbados
    Chief Executive Officer

  • David Smallbone

    KPMG UK
    Partner, InfraTech Advisory

5:00-6:00

Mitigating Maritime Environmental Impact: Caribbean Ports’ Emerging Policies and Practices

As cruise and cargo shipping strive to decarbonize, how are regional ports supporting sustainability?

  • What trends are we seeing in sustainability-linked infrastructure being included in port development and modernization?  
  • What will be the impact of introducing shore-power and increasing LNG bunkering and supply availability?
  • How can these initiatives be expanded across the region and what financial and technical support is required?
  • Are island governments planning for an associated energy demand spike from the maritime sector? How can they prepare?

  • Milaika Capella Ras

    Caribbean Shipping Association
    General Manager

  • Linden Coppell

    MSC Cruises
    Vice President, Sustainability and ESG

  • Donna Marie Howe

    Jamaica Bauxite Mining Ltd.
    Managing Director

  • Mike Maura

    Nassau Cruise Port | Nassau Container Port
    CEO & Director | Chairman

  • Darwin Telemaque

    Port Management Association of the Caribbean | Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority
    Chairman | Port Manager

6:00-6:15

CARIF Award Ceremony & Winner Showcase

6:15-8:00

Chairperson Day One Conclusions & Networking Cocktail Reception

Wednesday

September 17
8:00-8:50

CARIF ‘Rise and Shine’ Roundtables

Grab a coffee, pick your table, and join these lightly moderated conversation and networking sessions.

8:00-8:50

What Delivers Real Regional Connectivity? Airlift vs Hub & Spoke?

Rise and Shine Roundtable

  • Jack MacKenzie

    KPMG in the Cayman Islands
    Head of Deal Advisory

Strengthening Global Connectivity With Telecommunications Infrastructure

Rise and Shine Roundtable

8:00-8:50

Developing Effective Strategies to Close Capacity Gaps in the Caribbean

Rise and Shine Roundtable

  • Jessica Heath

    KPMG in the Cayman Islands
    Senior Manager, Digital Advisory

How Can the Caribbean Retrofit Its Infrastructure for Efficiency and Resilience?

Rise and Shine Roundtable

  • Stéphanie Nour

    Econoler
    Director for Latin America and the Caribbean

8:00-8:50

How Can the Caribbean Build True Coastal Resilience Amid Rising Risks?

Rise and Shine Roundtable

  • Esteban L. Biondi

    ATM, a Geosyntec Company
    Senior Principal

What Will It Take to Modernize Caribbean Road Networks?

Rise and Shine Roundtable

  • Elona Cela

    IFC
    Senior Investment Officer, Transaction Advisory, PPPs & Corporate Finance

  • Pablo Guerrero

    Inter-American Development Bank
    Lead Transport Specialist

8:50-9:00

Chairperson Remarks

  • Danica Corbin

    KPMG in CARICOM
    Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Lead

9:00-9:50

Is Infrastructure Keeping Up with the Tourism Boom?

As tourism surges across the region, this session will explore whether infrastructure is keeping pace with demand and how destination development strategies must evolve.

  • What are the critical infrastructure gaps tied to tourism growth?
  • How can destinations build and finance infrastructure that supports long-term sustainability?
  • What workforce development solutions are needed to scale the sector responsibly?
  • How should policymakers respond to the rise of cruise company private islands—and the implications for local economies?

  • Latia Duncombe

    The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
    Director General, Office of the Director General

  • Rosa Harris

    Cayman Islands Government
    Director of Tourism

  • Isabel de Caires

    CIBC Caribbean
    Director, Investment Banking Moderator

9:45-10:30

Sustainable Aviation and Airport Infrastructure Development as a Driver of Economic Growth and Development

Prioritizing sustainable aviation and modernized airport infrastructure can be a catalyst for regional growth—so how do we turn that vision into reality?

  • Assessing innovations in green aviation technology, airport resilience, and low-carbon infrastructure investments
  • How can we unlock long-term benefits via more effective policy, financing, and public-private partnerships?
  • Projected impact on job creation, tourism and trade expansion
  • What are the most actionable strategies for aligning aviation development with climate goals and economic opportunity?

  • Dr. Rafael Echevarne

    Airports Council International - Latin America and the Caribbean (ACILAC)
    Director General

  • Pablo Guerrero

    Inter-American Development Bank
    Lead Transport Specialist

  • Thibault Mercier

    Aecon
    International Business Development Director

  • Vernice Walkine

    Nassau Airport Development Company
    President & CEO

  • Michelle Ottey

    IFC
    Principal Investment Officer, Transaction Advisory, PPPs & Corporate Finance, Moderator

10:30-10:45

Refreshments and Networking

10:45-11:30

Resilient Health Systems: Building Caribbean Healthcare Infrastructure for the Future

This session explores both physical and digital healthcare infrastructure needs across Caribbean islands, examining innovative approaches to create accessible, efficient, and climate-resilient health systems.

  • What strategic healthcare facility developments (hospitals, clinics, specialized care centers) are underway, and where do critical infrastructure gaps remain that require immediate attention?
  • Beyond buildings: How can the region strengthen healthcare supply chains through policy reforms, regional cooperation, and innovative logistics solutions?
  • Digital transformation: Leveraging telemedicine, electronic health records, and AI-powered diagnostics to overcome geographical barriers and enhance healthcare quality and access
  • Climate resilience by design: Engineering healthcare facilities with integrated backup systems for power, water, and communications to maintain essential services during extreme weather events

  • Dr. Maryam Abdool-Richards

    National Infrastructure Property Development Company (NIPDEC)
    Chairman

  • Dr. Anna van Poucke

    KPMG
    Global Head of Healthcare

  • Hon. Philip A. Telesford

    Government of Grenada
    Minister of Health

11:30-12:15

Delivering Energy Security and Grid Resilience: Essential Elements for Growth

Energy access and cost define the economic opportunity across islands. How are regional governments, utilities, developers and multilateral partners supporting initiatives to ensure reliable and affordable energy?

  • Reviewing modernizations underway or in the pipeline
  • How can utilities employ more innovative technologies for grid resilience? What is the role of AI in this space?
  • What are the newest developments in microgrids?
  • Regional initiatives for energy security: What does a successful roadmap look like?

  • Roberto Aiello

    Inter-American Development Bank
    Principal Regional Energy Specialist for the Caribbean

  • Marsha Atherley-Ikechi

    OOCUR Inc.
    Executive Director

  • Toni B. Seymour

    Bahamas Power & Light
    Chief Executive Officer

12:15-1:00

Strengthening Food Security and Expanding the Economic Opportunity of Agriculture

Food security is a crucial element of the region’s resilience. How can islands, and the region as a whole, develop policies, practices and infrastructure to ensure access to sufficient fresh and affordable food, and turn agriculture into a driver of economic growth?

  • What innovations in agriculture and supporting logistics can increase food security? Looking at practices such as vertical farming- How can scale be achieved and have region-wide impact?
  • What import substitutions are most deliverable and how can governments incentivize these practices?
  • What is needed to developing better intra-regional agricultural trade:  Policies, transport, agricultural storage
  • Leveraging private sector technological advances and smart agriculture

  • Brian Bogart

    World Food Programme Caribbean Multi-Country Office
    Representative & Country Director

  • Jeffrey Hall

    Pan Jamaica Group
    Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

  • Josh Mahlik

    Fork Farms
    Partnership Development Director

1:00-2:30

Networking Lunch

Additional Registration Required
2:15-5:00

MSC Miami Cruise Terminal Tour

Optional Site Visit

Explore North America’s largest and most advanced cruise terminal. This guided tour of the 400,000 square feet MSC Miami Cruise Terminal includes biometric screening tech, shore power systems, and a striking 10,000 sq. ft. public art installation.

Advance registration required | $75 fee | Learn more

2:30-4:30

Financing the Future: Building Bankable Projects for the Caribbean

Interactive Workshop | Hosted by KPMG and CIBC Caribbean

Even essential infrastructure projects won’t attract funding unless they’re structured to meet investor expectations. This interactive session will explore what makes a project “bankable,” featuring real-world case studies and a hands-on simulation: Would You Fund This?

Advance registration required | Complimentary | Learn more

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