Datasur Unlocks Strategic Opportunities at Cloud Expo 2024

Datasur recently participated in the prestigious Cloud Expo 2024, held on December 4th and 5th in Houten, Netherlands. This renowned event brought together industry leaders to explore the latest advancements in cloud computing, data center infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Representing Datasur, Operational Affairs Manager Mr. Jurgen Schmeltz attended the first day of the Expo with a clear focus: identifying transformative technologies and forging strategic partnerships to support digital transformation in Suriname and the Caribbean region.

The event proved to be a treasure trove of insights. Datasur deepened its understanding of cutting-edge storage solutions, scalable cloud technologies, and the latest trends in cybersecurity. These advancements are poised to elevate Datasur’s service offerings, ensuring that our clients benefit from the most innovative and efficient solutions available. Beyond technology, the Expo served as a platform for building relationships with global industry players. Notable connections were established with companies such as CREDS, CyberArk, Worldstream IT Infrastructure, and Whiskey Cloud. These partnerships lay the foundation for collaborative growth and innovative solutions tailored to meet regional and global needs.

One of the most exciting areas of exploration was the optimization of data center operations. Emerging trends such as edge computing, energy-efficient solutions, and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) were key topics of discussion. These innovations will not only help Datasur enhance its operational efficiency but also enable cost savings that can be passed on to clients. Additionally, the Cloud Expo offered insights into solutions designed to accelerate digital transformation in the Caribbean, providing tools and strategies to help businesses in the region enhance their operations, foster innovation, and contribute to economic growth.

Throughout the event, strategic meetings played a pivotal role in shaping Datasur’s forward path. Discussions with CREDS focused on improving cybersecurity services through customized penetration testing and secure information handling protocols. With Worldstream IT Infrastructure, Datasur explored strategies for efficient data center expansion and knowledge sharing to support scalable growth. CyberArk introduced solutions for Privileged Access Management (PAM), a critical step in securing sensitive data and critical systems across Datasur’s cloud environments. Conversations with Real Solutions highlighted new storage technologies tailored to industries like oil and gas, while Computacenter B.V. shared insights on optimizing IT supply chain management and managed IT services for greater operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, Datasur plans to build on the momentum gained at Cloud Expo 2024 by formalizing these partnerships and launching pilot projects to integrate the latest technologies into its operations. From scalable cloud solutions and edge computing to energy-efficient infrastructure, these initiatives will drive Datasur’s mission to deliver innovative and sustainable digital solutions. Cybersecurity remains a top priority, with plans to implement advanced services developed in collaboration with CREDS and CyberArk. At the same time, Datasur is exploring opportunities to expand its data center capabilities, incorporating AI-driven automation, green energy solutions, and other innovations to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

As part of its commitment to fostering growth in the Caribbean, Datasur will also engage with local businesses and industry leaders to showcase its enhanced services. By positioning itself as a trusted partner in the region’s digital transformation journey, Datasur aims to empower businesses to unlock their full potential through innovation, efficiency, and reliability.

Cloud Expo 2024 has been a transformative experience for Datasur, equipping the company with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to lead the way in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data center infrastructure. With these insights and partnerships, Datasur is ready to shape the future of digital transformation in Suriname and the wider Caribbean.

Jurgen Schmeltz
Operational Affairs Manager, Datasur


Digital Transformation starts with Collaboration!

At Datasur, collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Recently, we had the pleasure of facilitating a visit for our valued client, FATUM, to our esteemed partner, BlueNap. This meaningful interaction reflects our shared commitment, as members of the Caribbean Datacenter Association (CDA), to deliver innovative, cutting-edge solutions that empower businesses in their digital transformation journeys. We are proud to partner with our clients to achieve their goals and appreciate the trust FATUM has placed in us.

The Caribbean Datacenter Association (CDA) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s ICT landscape. By fostering collaboration, promoting best practices, and driving innovation, the CDA strengthens the Caribbean’s digital infrastructure and capabilities. Partnerships like the one between Datasur and BlueNAP, championed by the CDA, are key to providing secure, reliable, and state-of-the-art solutions that meet the unique needs of our region.

Together, we’re not just embracing change—we’re leading the charge in digital transformation across the Caribbean. Thank you for being part of this journey, FATUM. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to shape the future of ICT in the region!


The Secret Ingredients to SMB Survival in a Cyberthreatened World

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are facing a harsh new reality. Cyberattacks are no longer an issue that only affects large enterprises. In fact, up to 85% of ransomware attacks target SMBs, and unfortunately, many lack the resources or expertise to adequately defend themselves. This puts them at significant risk, with as many as 60% of SMBs closing their doors after falling victim to a cyberattack.

But there’s hope. By taking the right steps, SMBs can protect themselves and thrive even in a cyber threatened world. A holistic approach to cybersecurity is crucial, and it revolves around four essential “R’s” that every SMB should focus on:

  • Response: Having a solid incident response plan in place is the first line of defense. Regular testing and updating of this plan are critical to ensure your team is always prepared for a cyberattack.
  • Recovery: Backups are a business lifeline. To ensure you never lose critical data, adopt the 3-2-1 backup rule: maintain three copies of your data, stored on two different media types, and keep one of those copies off-site.
  • Resiliency: Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about people. Make sure your employees are regularly trained to recognize threats like phishing and malware. A vigilant team can be the difference between spotting a threat early and becoming its victim.
  • Resellers: Partnering with Value-Added Resellers (VARs) can provide you with expert advice, cybersecurity solutions tailored to your needs, and ongoing support. These trusted partners will simplify technology sourcing and give you a competitive edge.

At Datasur, we understand the critical need for continuous protection in today’s threat landscape. Downtime is not an option for your business, and that’s why we offer Veeam-powered Data Protection solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Here’s how we can help you stay resilient:

  • 24/7 Continuous Data Protection ensures your operations run smoothly without interruptions.
  • Immutable Backups safeguard your critical files from ransomware attacks.
  • Cloud Storage offers scalable and efficient data management to grow with your business.
  • Rapid Recovery minimizes disruptions, ensuring your business stays up and running even after an incident.

We understand that every business has unique needs, which is why our pricing is customized to align with your specific requirements. With Datasur, your data protection strategy is designed to work for you.
In a world of cyber threats, resilience is key. By taking proactive steps and partnering with the right experts, SMBs can turn cybersecurity into a strength rather than a vulnerability.

Whitney de Rijp, MBA in Innovation and Technology.
Whitney de Rijp is a young driven Surinamese woman. She has been working at Datasur for over 6 years. Together with her top team, they ensure that customer data is stored securely all over the world which helps them focus on their core business.

Integrity, authenticity and just being herself is the mode for success as a Commercial Affairs Manager. Furthermore, she finds it very important to maximize effectiveness and of course lead by example. For both the internal and the external organization she is very transparent, which also fosters loyalty and engagement with the company goals.

Jurgen Schmeltz has as a Bachelor's degree in Information and Communication Technology and several IT certifications. His IT career started in Johannesburg, South Africa at IBM where he gained international experience for 5 years. When he came back to Suriname, he worked for two IT companies and also gained experience in VOIP, Backup Solutions and Microsoft Products.

At the moment Jurgen is a Cloud and Datacenter Infrastructure Specialist with many years of experience in the field of Microsoft Virtualization, Workplace Automation, Backup, Replication and Data Center Infrastructure. He currently holds the position of Operations Manager and is responsible for managing the Datacenter Operations such as Cloud and Network infrastructure.

Furthermore, he is also responsible for managing daily Facility Operations of the Datasur Datacenters and Project Lead for Cloud and Datacenter expansion projects. In his free time he’s a parttime lecturer at the two technical Universities in Suriname.

On behalf of Datasur Jurgen Schmeltz is also chairman of SUR-IX. The Suriname Internet Exchange Point which will be operational before the end of 2022

Sheetal Ganput works as the General Affairs Manager at Datasur. In this role she is part of the management team and reports to the CEO of Datasur.

She is a very self-driven, detail-oriented & hardworking young professional. She has helped to reorganize the company in the field of Office, HRM and Supply Chain Management.

Sheetal has her B.Sc. in Business Management and also completed her M.Sc. completed in Business Management with a specialization in Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Leadership. She is very progressive and is currently doing her Ph.D. study in Leadership & Management

Our CEO, Dr. Anvit Ramlakhan is a prolific strong inspiring inclusive young professional leader from Suriname, working in different fields to contribute for the betterment of humanity and the world. He is an experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in the ICT industry for several years, with a widespread of skills in operations, quality, risk, project, business, strategy, product portfolio management (just to name a few). At Datasur Anvit oversees the total company performance on strategical level, with a strong focus on business growth, innovation, customer experience and financial profitability.

Furthermore, Anvit contributes to development of the Surinamese youth by lecturing and tutoring at four university study organizations in Suriname on undergraduate and postgraduate levels within study fields such as ICT, Electrical engineering, Organization management, Process management, Business intelligence, MBA, etc.

He has a strong professional background with a cum laude doctorate (Ph.D. in Management- Information and Technology) from the Akamai University in USA, Master of Science (M.Sc.) with merit in Information Systems from Anglia Ruskin University in London, UK and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Telecommunications from Anton de Kom University in Paramaribo, Suriname. He currently is finishing up his MBA in Strategic Management and Leadership at the London School of International Business, London, UK.

Anvit has several prolific leadership and business certifications, ongoing humanity service, extensive spiritual drive and a personal theme which is as follows: “Continuous progressive successful excellence”. He is part of volunteer organization HSS for 20+ years, through which character molding, collaboration and way of living for the youth is created and augmented.

In January 2022 he has been elected for two years as Chairman of the ICT Association in Suriname, in order to help strategize the sustainable digital economic development of Suriname. Furthermore he also has been elected as Chairman for the Suriname Business Youth Association in June 2021 for a period of two years, whereby development and support of young entrepreneurs and professionals is one of the main goals. Anvit is also part of the presidential working groups on areas of e-Government and wage council.