By: Sueann Wickham
In a world where technology often seems to leap forward in the blink of an eye, Brian Smith is quietly but decisively steering Guyana into the future of drone and geospatial solutions. As the visionary behind the local business, Dragonfly Drones and Geospatial Solutions, Smith has turned a childhood fascination with aerial wonders into a cutting-edge business that stands out in a field still in its infancy in the country.
During his interview with the Guyana Standard,
Smith shared that his foray into drones wasn’t merely a career move but a natural extension of his academic and personal interests. With a Master’s degree in Natural Resources Management, he was uniquely positioned to appreciate the transformative potential of technology in land use and planning. His early fascination with flying robots and aerial photography soon merged with his professional expertise, leading him to explore how drones could enhance data collection and geospatial analysis.
Dragonfly Drones offers a comprehensive range of services, including aerial photography, geospatial mapping, surveying, and monitoring. What distinguishes Dragonfly from its competitors is its commitment to delivering precise and actionable insights through advanced drone technology.
The inception of Dragonfly Drones and Geospatial Solutions he said, was driven by a need to overcome the limitations of traditional data collection methods. “I saw the potential for drones to change the game,”Smith explained. This realization came at a time when the post-COVID landscape demanded more efficient, data-driven solutions. His goal was to establish a company that could leverage drone technology to offer innovative solutions across various industries, from surveying to mapping.
However, launching Dragonfly Drones involved navigating significant regulatory challenges. For readers who are not aware, in Guyana, drone operations are regulated by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The GCAA’s regulations require drone operators to secure permits, register their drones, and adhere to specific operational guidelines, including altitude limits and restrictions on flying in no-fly zones such as near airports and sensitive sites. Compliance with these regulations is critical for ensuring both safety and legality in their operations, a challenge that Smith has met with diligence and a commitment to working closely with regulators.
“Getting the necessary permits and ensuring compliance with aviation authorities required a lot of patience and effort,” Smith shared. Overcoming these hurdles involved building relationships with regulatory bodies and investing in continuous training for his team.
Building Dragonfly Drones also required significant personal sacrifices. Smith said he invested a substantial portion of his savings into the company and often faced the challenge of balancing business demands with personal life. Despite these sacrifices, the rewards of seeing the company grow and positively impact its clients have been gratifying for him. “Seeing the company grow and make a difference has made all the sacrifices worthwhile,” he reflected.
One of the milestones that marked Dragonfly Drones’ growth was its selection for the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) fellowship. This programme brought together young entrepreneurs from across the Americas, providing invaluable networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. “The YLAI fellowship was a game-changer for us,” Smith affirmed. The connections and insights gained have significantly influenced Dragonfly’s strategy and facilitated new partnerships, setting the stage for exciting developments in the near future.
Smith’s personal experiences have also profoundly shaped his approach to running Dragonfly Drones. Raised in Buxton on the East Coast of Demerara, he was deeply influenced by the values of community and giving back.
His wife, Jasmin Smith, who bought him his first drone, has been a steadfast supporter throughout his entrepreneurial journey. “My personal experiences and community values drive me to give back and foster a spirit of collaboration,” Smith explained. This sense of community is also reflected in Dragonfly’s initiatives, such as the Drone Kids programme, which aims to inspire and educate the next generation of tech enthusiasts.
Looking forward, Smith has ambitious plans for Dragonfly Drones. He aims to expand the company’s service offerings, enhance its technological capabilities, and establish a strong presence in international markets. “Our long-term strategy involves continuous investment in research and development, forging strategic partnerships, and setting industry standards,” Smith revealed. By pursuing these goals, he said he will ensure that Dragonfly Drones remains at the forefront of the drone industry, driving innovation and excellence.
“We’re working on integrating new software to ensure we provide unmatched reliability and precision in our services,” Smith noted. This focus on technological advancement and quality he said, also sets Dragonfly apart in a rapidly evolving industry.
For aspiring tech entrepreneurs, Smith offered some practical advice: “Stay curious and never stop learning.” He noted that the “tech” industry is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest trends is essential. Building a network of mentors and peers he said can provide critical support and insights according to Smith.
Reflecting on his entrepreneurial path, Smith acknowledged that patience and strategic planning are also crucial. While the initial focus was on rapid growth, he now recognizes the value of incremental scaling and maintaining high-quality service. He said investing in mentorship and planning could have accelerated growth, but each experience has contributed to Dragonfly Drones’ resilience and success. “Every step, whether a success or setback, has strengthened our company and its mission,” he affirmed.
For those interested in exploring the innovative drone and geospatial solutions offered by Dragonfly Drones, reach out to the company via their social media platforms @dragonflydronesgy on Instagram, Dragonfly Drone Solutions on Facebook or contact Brian Smith at +592 687 2714 to learn more about how they can assist you in your next project or venture.
