Egbert Hamilton (right) of Trench Town Craft Producers shows his wares to teachers Rachel Boxhill (left) and Kezia Page at the 'Kumba Mi Yabba' arts and crafts fair at Devon House, St. Andrew, last year. - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

The Jamaica Business Development Centre (JBDC), in its bid to continually create promotional opportunities for micro, small and medium-size enterprises in Jamaica, will be staging its annual Kumba Mi Yabba Christmas fair at Devon House from tomorrow until Sunday.

The fair, now in its seventh year, will be divided into five villages - food, fashion, gift and craft, wellness and home accessories.

"We are embracing the wellness industry this year by having a wellness village dedicated to those individuals who are interested in pursuing a healthier lifestyle," senior communications officer at the JBDC, Racquel Jones, highlighted.

She said also that the wellness village would feature presentations by wellness professionals on topics such as stress management, how to live a healthier life and health.

Fashion show special

A major highlight of the fair will be a fashion show on December 22.

The show, dubbed 'Technicolour Explosion,' will feature the work of nine of Jamaica's youngest and newest fashion designers who are selected to design a five-piece clothing line, using colours and trends for spring and summer of 2008.

Miss Jones said the designers have benefited from a series of workshops on fashion trends and marketing, and would be showcasing sports, casual, cocktail, formal and swim wear.

In addition to the marketing component of the fair, Kumba Mi Yabba will present a variety of entertainment packages over the three-day period, including a carol service, a kiddies fun yard, concerts and other nightly entertainment.

Miss Jones said participants have benefited tremendously from Kumba Mi Yabba, as it provides a platform for local producers and manufacturers of innovative and indigenous products and services to showcase their merchandise. Additionally, the show provides the medium for entrepreneurs to access a wider market, both locally and overseas.

Over 130 exhibitors will be participating in the show, with an anticipated 10,000 persons visiting the Christmas village.