Caribbean Tourism Gets a Boost with Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Leadership Program for Young Professionals

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is now open for applications for the upcoming session of its Young Leaders Forum (YLF). This initiative, crafted by former CHTA President and Barbados hotel owner Affonso-Dass, aims to cultivate future leaders and bolster the region’s hospitality sector.

The CHTA welcomes applications from supervisors and professionals aged 25 to 40 who are keen on advancing their leadership abilities with the support of seasoned industry experts, and who possess a deep enthusiasm for tourism and hospitality. Eligible applicants must be currently employed by a CHTA member organization and secure approval from their employer to engage in the two-year program. Applications are available on the CHTA website and will be accepted until April 29, 2024.

The program is overseen by Paul Collymore, Chair of the People Development Initiative and President of the Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association, with additional support from CHTA President-Elect Sanovnik Destang of St. Lucia, who also leads the CHTA’s Technology Task Force. The YLF has played a pivotal role in the professional advancement of its participants. Distinguished guest speakers from the past, such as Jamaican hoteliers Adam Stewart and Josef Forstmayr, and Tourism Corporation Bonaire CEO Miles Mercera, have provided valuable insights and motivation.

The YLF offers a holistic approach to professional development, including mentorship, training, exchange programs, and networking opportunities. It promotes a lasting commitment to CHTA and the broader Caribbean hospitality industry, encouraging pride and dedication among its participants.

Mikael Doumeng, Digital Marketing Manager of Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands, expressed gratitude for the program, stating, “Through my Young Leaders Forum Mentorship, I’ve transformed challenges into opportunities, enhancing my professional development and elevating guest experiences at the hotel at the same time. My mentor’s encouragement and expertise have not only helped motivate my journey but also deepened my understanding of the industry.”

The forum has become a vital networking platform, allowing participants to form significant connections within the industry. Many graduates of the YLF have also actively engaged in CHTA committees, showing their dedication to furthering the association’s objectives.

Yatsuri Marshall, recently promoted to General Manager of Bay Gardens Marina Haven, highlighted the program’s role in her development, noting, “The CHTA Young Leaders Forum was a pivotal step in my professional development, offering a unique blend of networking, learning, and industry insight. Engaging with peers and leaders, I gained and contributed valuable perspectives, which sharpened my skills and helped shape my career trajectory. This forum is an essential catalyst for growth and impact in our industry.”

CHTA celebrates the recent program graduates for their exceptional dedication and commitment:

• Alona Greenidge, Regional Executive Assistant, Delta Petroleum Caribbean Limited (St. Lucia)
• Anice O’Neil, Commercial Director, Bay Gardens Resorts (St. Lucia)
• Carey Turnquest, Operations Project Manager, Lyford Cay Club (The Bahamas)
• Gia Saunders, Executive Director of Process Improvement, Atlantis (The Bahamas)
• Issia Thelwell, Director of Leisure Sales, Half Moon (Jamaica)
• Jamal Griffith, Sales and Marketing Consultant, Nautilus Ocean Suites and Maxwell Del Mar Hotel; Managing Director, Chattel Kitchen Bar House (Barbados)
• Judith Guerrier, Destinations Sales Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Turks and Caicos
• Kamille Huggins, Membership Development Officer, St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce (St. Lucia)
• Karen King, General Manager, Villa Renaissance (Turks and Caicos)
• Khalil Keddo, Hotel Manager, Beaches Negril (Jamaica)
• Laudra Maurille-Willie, Assistant Human Resource Manager, The Landings Resort & Spa (St. Lucia)
• Llana Ewing, Executive Housekeeper, Grace Bay Resorts (Turks and Caicos)
• Lea Rojas, Events Coordinator and Office Manager, Sint Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association
• Lesley Taylor, Director of Revenue, Comfort Suites Paradise Island (The Bahamas)
• Merricka Dyer, Hotel Sales Manager, Grand Palladium Jamaica and Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa (Jamaica)
• Mikael Doumeng, Digital Marketing Manager, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort (U.S. Virgin Islands)
• Namene James Rodgers, HR DEI Specialist, Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency (Antigua)
• Nicol Alexander, Guest Relations, Bel Jou Hotel (St. Lucia)
• Nicola Roberts, Director, Travel Connections By Robernic (Jamaica)
• Snjezana Andrews, CEO/Owner, Clearwater Capital (The A-Team) (Turks and Caicos)
• S. Omega Simmons, Communications Manager, Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association; Owner/Director, SOS Media
• Tanya Williams, Revenue Manager, The Somerset on Grace Bay (Turks and Caicos)
• Yatsuri Marshall, General Manager, Bay Gardens Marina Haven (St. Lucia)

“The Young Leaders Forum serves as a cornerstone in developing the next generation of hospitality professionals. These emerging leaders are the future, embodying the promise of a dynamic and thriving industry. At CHTA, our mission goes beyond career preparation; we aim to cultivate leaders eager to take on volunteer roles, enriching our industry and local communities alike,” remarked Vanessa Ledesma, Acting CEO and Director General of CHTA.

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