Janoura, Junior Sammy inducted into Champions of Business Hall of Fame

George Janoura and Junior Elgin Sammy, two of TT’s business stalwarts in the textiles and construction sectors, were inducted into the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TTCIC’s) Champions of Business Hall of Fame on November 7, during a gala at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain.

The two were among several people who were recognised for their growth and performance in the business sector.

“I am proud, humbled and honoured,” said Janoura to reporters after the award ceremony. “I never expected this. I don’t know where it came from, but it came.”

He thanked his family and staff for their support throughout the 60 years he had been in the textile business. He said it was a proud moment for them as well.

“First of all, I started in the family business. We all worked together. It is gratifying to them, and it is what we have done all the days of our lives.”

He said while forex is not a challenge for the company at the moment, getting skilled labour is key to the business’s survival. He said Janouras has launched a school which trains people to sew.

“In the old days, the home economics classes taught sewing, but that no longer exists.

“That school is essential to the survival of our company. We now have ten trainees. One of our experienced old machine operators, that person is now teaching the trainees how to sew.

"They are all paid like regular workers. We have people who monitor what they are doing and see what skill level they reach.”

Janoura said his next step is to find new ways to satisfy customers.

Sammy did not speak to the media after the award ceremony, but in his acceptance speech he expressed his gratitude.

“My faith is most important to me. I thank God, my parents, my country, my true friends, my staff and the chamber. This is a very proud moment for us,” he said. “I am truly privileged to stand before you all. I am greatly humbled to accept this award. The road is long but the vision is clear.”

Janoura, founder and managing director of Janouras Custom Design Ltd. According to a bio on the TTCIC’s website, Janoura leads by example to demonstrate core company values.

Janoura has been able to invest in technology and build the skill levels of employees.

“He continues to encourage a culture of creativity and innovation by encouraging all employees to think outside the box and contribute new ideas. The company continues to implement training. These continuous learning opportunities help employees develop new skills and advance their careers within the company,” the bio said.

Sammy, the bio said, entered the construction industry under the directive of his father at 15. Sammy expanded the business into a general contracting company which specialises in civil earthworks, engineering, coastal protection, site preparation and foundations and land development.

“Three decades later, Junior Sammy Contractors Ltd has become a prominent name both in the public and private sectors,” the bio said. “The group comprises Junior Sammy Contractors, Jusamco Pavers, Sammy’s MultiLift Services, Sammy’s Marine Services and Sammy’s Minerals.”

The Champions of Business Awards Programme was introduced in 2005 and was expanded and rebranded in 2014.

“The awards celebrate excellence and captures a spectrum of achievements in business enterprise that included small business development, creativity, innovation, technology, development, sustainability and legacy,” the chamber said on its website.

This year awardees were recognised in six categories.

Other winners:

Breakthrough Exporter of the Year: Creamery Novelties Ltd

Entrepreneurship: Caribbean Specialty Foods Company Ltd

Green Agenda: House of Angostura

Innovation: Cariri

Internationally Known, TT Owned: Chief Brand Products

SME awards (small and medium categories): Cocobel Chocolate Ltd and ODeliver