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Kadion Preston
Founder & CEO Caribshopper
Kadion Preston is a Jamaican-born entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Caribshopper, an online marketplace dedicated to authentic Caribbean goods. He co-founded the platform in 2020, with its official launch occurring in January 2021. Caribshopper aims to assist Caribbean manufacturers in scaling their businesses internationally, particularly focusing on empowering women-owned enterprises within the region.124
Early Life and Career
Kadion's entrepreneurial journey began in high school, influenced by his mother's entrepreneurial spirit. This foundation instilled a sense of fearlessness in him, enabling him to seize opportunities, such as speaking with the CEO of Yahoo during an internship in New York.13 His career includes significant roles in technology; he served as the Chief Technology Officer at several companies before founding Caribshopper. Notably, he was the CTO of Sonicloop Networks for over 16 years and has held various technology consulting positions.24
Personal Experiences
Kadion's life took a dramatic turn during the events of September 11, 2001, when he was working on Wall Street. The trauma from that day profoundly impacted his perspective on life and business.13 Following this experience, he sought to create solutions that would benefit Jamaica and its economy, leading to the inception of Caribshopper.1
Impact and Vision
Under Kadion's leadership, Caribshopper has shipped over 28,795 products across the United States and Canada, featuring more than 7,000 SKUs from over 650 brands representing Jamaica and Trinidad.24 His vision extends beyond business; he emphasizes the importance of mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs, viewing it as a crucial factor for success.1
Kadion Preston continues to advocate for Caribbean brands while navigating the challenges of growing an international marketplace. His journey reflects a commitment to fostering economic growth within the Caribbean community.