Caribbean Employee Empowerment Training in Barbados, St. Croix and Aruba
In 2024, we continued our Caribbean Employee Empowerment Program with Supercharged Service in Barbados, St Croix and Aruba with our training partners TalkAbout Earth Solutions.
In September, 82 dedicated Bajan hospitality professionals completed the Caribbean Supercharged Service Training, a transformative initiative in partnership with the Sandals Foundation. Over four dynamic days, participants engaged in three highly interactive courses designed to enhance guest interactions and elevate the overall hospitality experience, including Food Knowledge Reimagined! Delicious Descriptive Language!: Focusing on enhancing culinary knowledge and the use of descriptive language in food services; The Magic of Hospitality ~ When to Fit In & When to Stand Out!: Helping newer team members strike the perfect balance between blending in and standing out in the hospitality environment and Customer Ambassadors: Equipping professionals with the skills to create
meaningful connections with guests and effectively address their needs.
In October, the CHTAEF in partnership with the St Croix Hotel & Tourism Association, held training in St Croix for the first time, 100 participants during five days of workshops. These included Customer Ambassadors, Heartfelt Guest Care to Create Memorable Experiences: An energetic, interactive session aimed at assisting team members in delivering heartfelt care and shining through challenges and Effective Results-Driven Communication for Supervisors & Managers: This workshop outlined core problem-solving values through real-life scenarios.
General Managers and HR Managers provided positive feedback, highlighting the valuable guest touch-point ideas and practical strategies explored during the training. With this Supercharged Service boost, hospitality professionals are even more focused on delivering the exceptional vacation experiences that travelers seek, empowered with renewed enthusiasm and expertise.
And finally, CHTAEF and AHATA hosted a Supervisor Bootcamp in Aruba in November. This event will welcome 140 participants for a comprehensive 7 x 2day Caribbean Supercharged Supervisor Bootcamp, aimed at enhancing the skills of both supervisors and their managers.
Through these initiatives, the Caribbean Employee Empowering Program continues to play a vital role in developing a skilled workforce dedicated to providing exceptional service in the hospitality industry. For more information about this program please contact foundation@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
Accelerate Your Career with the Caribbean Professional Development Program
The Caribbean Professional Development Program, which is a Partnership with Les Roches Global Hospitality, offers a unique opportunity for hospitality professionals seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their current job commitments. This fully remote, six-month Executive program is designed to be flexible, allowing participants to balance their studies with work responsibilities.
The program consists of four study blocks, each lasting about one month with an expected 12-15 hours per week commitment.:
This year’s cohort attracted a diverse group of professionals from across the Caribbean, each bringing unique experiences and aspirations:
Aruba:
▪ Rose Anne Coelho Pereira: Rose Anne brings a wealth of sales experience to the program aims to expand her overall hospitality and operations understanding with this program.
Bahamas:
▪ Ricardo Haygood: With 13 years of experience, Ricardo has worked his way up from guest activities to leadership roles.
▪ Samaria Cooper: With over 15 years in rooms operations and event planning, Samaria aims to become a Hotel GM.
▪ Ryan Nabbe: A highly motivated individual with experience primarily in Finance, Ryan seeks use this program to pivot to hospitality.
Bermuda:
▪ Keni Maybury: Coming from a background in banking and hotel finance, Keni aspires to become a controller or HR leader.
Dominica:
▪ David Thornhill: With 15 years of experience, David is passionate about sustainable tourism and aims to expand his local business regionally.
Grenada:
▪ Debbie Antoine: With over 13 years of experience, Debbie is focused on becoming a General Manager.
Jamaica:
▪ Tenniele Tate: With over 10 years in hospitality, Tenniele wants to rise to the GM level.
▪ Issa Thelwell: A former CHTA Young Ambassador, Issa transitioned from medical studies to hospitality and is on her way to a Director of Operations role.
▪ Kady Ann Spencer: With 9 years of experience, Kady is focused on becoming a General Manager.
▪ Deleen Gooden: Deleen is committed to advancing her career in room operations towards a Hotel GM role. St. Kitts:
▪ Jewelle Griffin: With 14+ years in finance, this program is crucial to help Jewelle strengthen her operations knowledge to become a successful GM.
Trinidad:
▪ Carineh Patrice: With 5+ years in hospitality, Carineh aims for an executive-level position. Turks & Caicos:
▪ Chantal Monique Herah: Chantal is dedicated to enhancing her skills in front office operations to advance to senior leadership.
“I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support. Thanks to your generous scholarship program, I have had the incredible opportunity to further my studies at Les Roches. I am truly grateful. Ialso wanted to share some exciting news. I have been awarded the “Post Graduate Executive Diploma” in International Hotel Management from Les Roches.
I started the program as an Event Sales Manager, and upon completion, I have been promoted to Assistant Director of Events.”
Ronald
Roget Assistant Director of Events
Hyatt Regency Trinidad
For more information and to apply click HERE.
Empowering Haitian Youth
The commitment to foster educational opportunities in Haiti received a significant boost as the CHTA Educational Foundation (CHTAEF) and sponsor Curtain Bluff once again collaborate with the École Hôtelière d’Haiti to launch a new cohort of the Spoken Hospitality English Course.
In Summer 2024, over 30 enthusiastic students in their final year at École Hôtelière d’Haiti, 20 pursuing certifications in Hospitality Management and 10 in Culinary Arts graduated from this language program. Despite facing political challenges in Haiti, these students are eager to learn English as a pathway to rewarding careers in hospitality.
Delivered by Nexus Professional Development Institute, the four-month course equips participants with the linguistic proficiency necessary for success in Haiti's burgeoning tourism sector. Bapthol Joseph, head of Nexus, shared his personal motto: “Never Give Up.” He encouraged students to embrace mistakes and enjoy the learning process, stating, “Thank you for trusting us with this worthwhile endeavor.”
Norma Holder, Financial Controller at Curtain Bluff, emphasized the resort’s commitment to partnering with the Education Foundation to support the Spoken Hospitality English course, recognizing its critical role in developing young men and women in the tourism industry. “On behalf of Curtain Bluff, we want to thank the Education Foundation, École
Hôtelière d’Haiti, and the ministers of government in Haiti who assist with this worthwhile program.”
Karine Condé-Emeran, Director of École Hôtelière d’Haiti, noted the importance of hosting the program for a second year: “With everything happening in Haiti, including gang influence, learning another language is an adventure that opens new opportunities. You are changing lives.” She added that they have learned from last year’s experience and are improving the delivery of the course, stating, “Sometimes Haiti can discourage you, but thank you to Mr. Bapthol and the Education Foundation for trusting our school and staff.”
Haiti’s Minister of Tourism, Cassandra Francois, a proud former student of the Spoken Hospitality English course, highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the various entities: “This is not the first partnership, and it won’t be the last. I challenge the students to pursue their dreams, don’t be afraid to speak English and ask for help.”
The CHTAEF's Spoken Hospitality English Course is a pivotal initiative in strengthening Haiti's tourism landscape and nurturing a skilled workforce ready to excel globally. With the launch of this new cohort, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to empower the next generation of hospitality professionals in Haiti.
To donate to this program please contact foundation@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
General Scholarship Program
CHTAEF is proud to introduce the 2024 cohort of recipients for its prestigious hospitality scholarship program. This initiative supports outstanding students from across the Caribbean, fostering their academic pursuits in critical areas of the hospitality industry, including culinary arts, business management, and hotel operations.
Karolin Troubetzkoy, Chairwoman of the Education Foundation, expressed her congratulations to the recipients: “We are thrilled to support such an inspiring group of young professionals who are poised to lead and innovate in the Caribbean hospitality industry. We look forward to their future successes.”
As these scholars embark on their academic journeys, they embody the potential and promise of the Caribbean hospitality sector.
CHTAEF remains committed to empowering the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of tourism in the region.
This year’s scholarships underscore CHTAEF’s commitment to developing future leaders in the hospitality sector, with two of the 12 scholars set to pursue master’s degrees. Jamal Griffith pursuing Master's in Marketing and Management of Luxury Tourism at Les Roches, Marbella and Ira Claxton continuing his Master’s in Hospitality Management with a specialization in Hotel Real Estate Development at Florida International University (FIU).
Meet the 2024/25 Scholars
ANTIGUA:
“What I have enjoyed most about the program is how the courses encourage me to think creatively and give me a deeper understanding of business. I appreciate the class learning and a chance to apply what we have learnt to our jobs. I have already started applying some of what I have learnt to my job, and it is giving me new insights into the industry, which is exciting.”
Nichelle Tench
“This program has been so rewarding as it continues to push me out of my comfort zone and challenges me to think out of the box. Thus far, I have been able to maintain a 4.0 G.P.A and a spot on the Dean’s List. I am expected to graduate by May 2026 and look forward to all that this semester has in store. Thank you once again for your continuedsupport in my education.”
Rhema Blackman
Careena Eastwood: Pursuing an Associate Degree in Tourism Management at the University of The West Indies Open Campus.
Olvanah Richardson-Burnette: Studying for a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management at Southern New Hampshire University.
Roan Akeem Jacobs: Engaged in the Food & Beverage Management Cornell Certificate Program through eCornell Online.
BAHAMAS:
Rhema Blackman: Continuing her Bachelor of Culinary Arts and Food & Beverage Management at Johnson & Wales University.
Marissa Campbell: Earning an Associate Degree in Operations Management at Holland College.
BARBADOS:
Zaria Collymore: Completing a Bachelor of Hotel Management at Florida International University (FIU).
Jamal Griffith: Advancing to a Master's in Marketing and Management of Luxury Tourism at Les Roches, Marbella. Jamal's passion for promoting Barbados as a leading tourist destination was inspired by his experiences accompanying his father on island tours.
BERMUDA:
Rayquon Woodley: Continuing to excel in her Bachelor’s in Hotel Management at Les Roches, Marbella.
ST. LUCIA:
Luthanie Luel Contantin: Pursuing a Bachelor of Tourism Management at Monroe College, focusing on sustainable tourism and community empowerment.
Roxanne Nichelle Tench: Working towards a Bachelor of Science in Business Management at Monroe College.
TRINIDAD:
Sophia Rios Herrera: Continuing her studies in Bachelor’s in Hotel Management at Les Roches, Marbella.
US VIRGIN ISLANDS:
Ira Claxton: Advancing his Master’s in Hospitality Management with a specialization in Hotel Real Estate Development at FIU.
Support the Future of Caribbean Hospitality – Donate a Stay Today!
Your continued support is vital to ensuring the success of our programs. Your generosity directly helps us providescholarships, skills training, and career-advancing opportunities for Caribbean nationals, empowering them to excel in the hospitality industry.
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation (CHTAEF) is committed to transforming lives through education and professional development. Our scholarship recipients and training program participants are making remarkable strides, strengthening the workforce that upholds the Caribbean’s reputation for world-class hospitality.
To sustain and expand these life-changing initiatives, we invite you to contribute to our upcoming online auction by donating a 3-7 night hotel stay. You have the flexibility to include blackout dates, and we encourage extending validity through the end of 2024.
Join us in shaping the future of Caribbean hospitality—your donation today will open doors for countless aspiring professionals tomorrow.
To download the donation form, click HERE or for more details, please contact foundation@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com and cc karolin@chtaef.com
CHTAEF’s Commitment to Caribbean Resiliency and Marine Health
On World Tourism Day2024,the CHTA Educational Foundation proudly unveiled two vital scholarship initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable and resilient practices within the Caribbean tourism industry.
Tourism Resilience Scholarship Fund
Made possible through a generous donation from Saint Lucia’s Jade Mountain Resort, the Tourism Resilience Scholarship Fund is designed to support Caribbean hospitality professionals seeking advanced training in resilience building, sustainable tourism, and destination stewardship.
This initiative equips professionals with the critical skills needed to navigate the challenges faced in today’s evolving tourism landscape. By investing in education and training, the fund aims to enhance the capacity of hospitality workers to create sustainable practices that benefit both their communities and the environment.
Learn more here:https://chtaef.com/index.php/tourism-resilience-scholarship/
Marine Health Scholarship Program
The Marine Health Scholarship Program, supported by leading scuba tour operators DreamWeaver,DiVentures, Caradonna and scuba centre Scuba St.Luciafocuses on nurturing a new generation of marine professionals dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Caribbean's marine environment. Recognizing the vital role of healthy marine ecosystems in sustaining a vibrant tourism industry, this scholarship program encourages careers in dive instruction, reef life renewal, marine biology, and coral nursery management.
These fields are crucial for maintaining the Caribbean’s renowned marine biodiversity, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate the rich underwater landscapes.
These scholarship initiatives underscore the CHTAEF’s ongoing commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and professional development within the Caribbean tourism industry. By fostering resilience and marine health, CHTAEF is dedicated to ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the region's tourism sector for generations to come.
Learn more here:https://chtaef.com/index.php/apply/marine-health-scholarship-program/
As we move forward, these scholarships represent not just an investment in individuals, but a collective step toward a more sustainable future for Caribbean tourism. Together, we can empower the next generation of hospitality and marine professionals to thrive while protecting the incredible natural resources that define our islands. Contact us for more information
Thank you to all who supported our
Hurricane Beryl Relief Fundraiser!
Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association together with the Caribbean Education Foundation (CHTAEF) thanks the global community which supported its Hurricane Relief Fundraisers.
Hotels and individuals contributed to raise over $25,000 to aid Caribbean hospitality workers impacted by the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl in June 2024.
Hotel Donors
ANTIGUA
Blue Waters
Carlisle Bay Resort
Galley Bay Resort & Spa ADULTS ONLY
Hammock Cove Antigua ADULTS ONLY
Hermitage Bay
Pineapple Beach Club Antigua ADULTS ONLY
St James's Club & Villas
The Verandah ADULTS ONLY
ARUBA
Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino
BAHAMAS
Embrace Resort
Thank you to all our individual donors
BARBADOS
Bougainvillea Barbados
O2 Beach Club
Sea Breeze Beahc House
Sugar Bay Barbados
The Rockely
The Club Barbados GRENADA
Calabash Hotel PANAMA
Los Establos Boutique Resort
ST KITTS
Royal St Kitts Hotel
ST LUCIA
Caille Blanc Villa & Hotel
Calabash Cove Resort & Spa
Cap Maison Resort & Spa -5-nights
TURKS & CAICOS
The Somerset on Grace Bay
USVI, ST CROIX
The Buccaneer
USVI, St Thomas
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
Individual Donors
Jennifer West
Bay Gardens Ltd
Gregor Nassief
Karolin Troubetzkoy
Benedict Lansiquot
Hema Odedra
Frank Comito
Malin Richert
Kendall Butler
Janet Burrell
Andrew Nienhaus
Melvin Green
Jacqueline Egan
Keri Jevic
William Krehely
Chelsea Collier
Brian Conlan
Mandy Rawding
CHTAEF would like to thank the individuals who generously donated using the DONATE button on our website. Their quiet contributions help support all our ongoing programs for the betterment of our regional hospitality industry.
Ewald Biemans
Gregory Brown
Elaine Carnegie
William Clegg
Cathleen Decker
Terry Deich
Ernest Dwight
Jacqueline Egan
Paige Graff
Susan Jackson
Joshua Kaplan
Ilyse Karwoski
Seth Klugherz
Mandy Rawding
Drew Richardson
Eliza Egan Smith
Kelly Sullivan
Steven Weaver
Caribbean Tourism Organisation Chapter UK & Europe
