The event, held at the Hilton Barbados, served as a vibrant closing to the year, honouring the power of collaboration and unity that drives the Caribbean tourism industry.
Regional tourism leaders, government officials, NGOs, representatives of multilateral organizations, private sector stakeholders, media and members of the diplomatic community gathered for an evening of reflection, celebration and camaraderie. The event underscored the transformative impact of partnerships to drive sustainable growth and innovation in the Caribbean tourism sector.
Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary General and CEO of the CTO, shared her reflections on the region’s achievements and the critical role of partnerships and unity, which have driven success and innovation. In her opening remarks, she highlighted her recognition of the CTO team: “Leadership is never a one-person job. I am incredibly proud of the incredible team here at the CTO. These are the people who work day in and day out to make our shared vision a reality.” She concluded: “Together, we are not just imagining a bright future for the Caribbean, we are building it.”
Among others, Regis-Prosper singled out Barbados Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill, Chairman of the CTO Ministerial Council; Andrea Franklin, Chairman of the CTO Board of Directors and CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.; Neil Walters, Director of Finance and Resource Management for the CTO; and CTO Director of Resource Mobilization and Development Sharon Banfield-Bovell.
Franklin, delivering a speech on behalf of Minister Edghill, reflected on the achievements of 2024, including the success of the CTO Sustainable Tourism Conference held earlier in the year in Grenada. Highlighting the importance of partnerships, she emphasised the transformative impact of collaboration across sectors, from public and private stakeholders to regional and international organisations. “In recent months, we have made great strides in fostering stronger partnerships. The CTO has taken a proactive role in engaging with key stakeholders, expanding its partnerships and enhancing its presence on the international stage,” she said. She noted how these strategic collaborations have boosted economic growth, employment opportunities and global visibility for the Caribbean region.
Looking ahead, Franklin highlighted several key initiatives, including the creation of a Caribbean tourism reimagining plan, the expansion of the regional events calendar, capacity building efforts in areas such as market intelligence, and increased engagement with allied members. These initiatives, she explained, are designed to position the Caribbean as the world’s premier warm-weather destination.
“We have achieved a lot, but it is also important to recognise the challenges we face,” Franklin added, pointing to economic changes, evolving traveller behaviour and rising visitor expectations as areas requiring attention. However, she expressed optimism about the region’s potential to lead in sustainable tourism, digital transformation and skills development.
Franklin praised the CTO staff and its leader for advancing the organization’s mission: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Secretary General, Ms. Dona Regis-Prosper, for her leadership over the past 15 months…her vision, commitment and efforts have been instrumental in revitalizing the CTO and positioning us for future success.”
Walters expressed gratitude for the contributions of stakeholders and partners: “As we said before, nothing we do would be possible without the partnerships, without the collaboration of all of you here. You are not here by mistake. You are here because your input has been significant to the CTO’s ability to fulfill its mandate for many years.”
The event was a testament to the shared vision and collaborative efforts that have driven Caribbean tourism forward. Looking ahead to 2025, the CTO remains committed to fostering strong partnerships, ensuring continued growth, sustainability and prosperity for the region.
Source: CTO.