Caribbean Week in New York, an annual event celebrating the vibrant culture and tourism of the Caribbean, recently made history by hosting the first-ever Caribbean Tourism Organization Women’s Leadership Awards. The event, held at the Wyndham New Yorker Hotel on June 6, honored six outstanding women who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry in the Caribbean.
The awards ceremony was a highlight of Caribbean Week, which featured a series of events including a trade show, seminars, cultural performances, and culinary demonstrations showcasing the diverse offerings of the Caribbean region. The Women’s Leadership Awards were created to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women who have excelled in various roles within the tourism sector, including marketing, sustainability, and community engagement.
The six honorees represented a cross-section of the Caribbean tourism industry, with recipients hailing from countries such as Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. Among the awardees was Patricia Affonso-Dass, President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, who was recognized for her leadership in promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Other recipients included Petra Roach, Director of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., who was honored for her innovative marketing strategies that have helped to boost tourism to the island. Sharon Flax-Brutus, Director of Tourism for the British Virgin Islands, was recognized for her efforts to promote the destination as a premier luxury travel destination.
The Women’s Leadership Awards also highlighted the importance of gender equality and empowerment in the tourism industry, with honorees sharing their insights and experiences on how to overcome barriers and achieve success in a male-dominated field. The awards ceremony served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women in the Caribbean tourism sector and inspire future generations of female leaders.
In addition to the Women’s Leadership Awards, Caribbean Week in New York also featured a series of panel discussions and workshops focused on key issues facing the region, such as sustainable tourism development, climate change, and the impact of technology on the industry. The event provided a forum for industry professionals, government officials, and stakeholders to come together to discuss ways to promote and strengthen the Caribbean tourism sector.
Overall, the first-ever Caribbean Tourism Organization Women’s Leadership Awards were a resounding success, shining a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of women in the Caribbean tourism industry. The event served as a testament to the important role that women play in driving the growth and success of the region’s tourism sector, and highlighted the need for continued support and recognition of their contributions. As Caribbean Week in New York continues to grow and evolve, the Women’s Leadership Awards will undoubtedly remain a highlight of the event, celebrating the achievements of women in the industry and inspiring future generations of female leaders.
