FROM VILLAGE ROOTS TO MBA GRADUATE
On 7th November, Bournemouth University proudly celebrated the graduation of one of its most remarkable students—Phillon Kelly, who received his Master of Business Administration (MBA).
For Kelly, this milestone represents far more than academic achievement; it stands as the fulfilment of a journey that began in the humble village of Clare Valley, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Growing up in Clare Valley, Chris was shaped by a deep sense of community, resilience, and purpose. These values guided him through some of the most defining decisions of his life—including leaving home in 2003 to join the British Army. It was a profound sacrifice for a village boy, stepping away from family and familiarity, but one he pursued with determination and courage.
Serving with the 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, Kelly quickly excelled, earning promotion to Lance Corporal within just eighteen months. He trained personnel in critical security and emergency procedures, led operational teams, managed maritime equipment, and served on overseas operations, including Belize. His years in uniform sharpened the leadership and discipline that would drive the rest of his career.
After his military service, Chris continued to grow professionally—working in key roles across the public sector with HMRC and in leadership positions with Aldi and Lidl. But it was entrepreneurship that would truly allow him to make his mark.
In 2017, he founded Waypoint Enterprises Ltd. Through hard work, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he transformed the company into the leading Shipping Agent to St. Vincent and the Grenadines from the UK. His name soon became known across the country for trustworthiness, integrity, efficiency, and reliability—a reputation earned from the ground up through years of hands-on service and dedication.
Yet his story is deeply connected not only to his own achievements but also to the forward-thinking spirit within his family and community. Chris, was the visionary behind one of Clare Valley’s most successful community developments. Seeing that the village needed more than the traditional corner shop, Chris sought and received permission from his mother to follow his dream.
Today, a mini-mart stands as a vital part of daily life—serving the community and surrounding areas with convenience, dignity, and pride. It is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit that runs through the family and their commitment to lifting their village.
Despite running a thriving business, he made another enormous sacrifice—stepping away from Waypoint Enterprises for a full year so he could fully commit to earning his MBA at Bournemouth University. This decision reflected not only ambition but also long-term vision: the desire to return stronger, more knowledgeable, and better prepared to serve others.
For Chris Kelly as hes affectionately known, graduation is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a new chapter.
“All the experiences I’ve gained—from Clare Valley to the British Army, from public service to building a leading business, and now completing my MBA—I want to pass them on,” he says. His goals include working with communities, supporting the public sector, offering consultancy, and mentoring future leaders. Did I also mention he was awarded the Common Wealth Business Leader by his Peers in the Uk.
From the Seas of Clare Valley to recognition throughout the United Kingdom, Phillon Kelly’s story is one of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering purpose. His journey proves that when ambition is rooted in integrity and community, success becomes something far greater than personal achievement—it becomes a legacy.