Yesterday, the National Youth Tourism Congress awarded participants for their exceptional performances in the national competition.

The event, which took place in June 2023, brought together talented students from across Antigua and Barbuda to share their visions for the future of tourism in the country.

Each participant was presented with a tablet, courtesy of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, as a token of gratitude for their excellent contributions.

Additionally, Maliah Stuart, the winner of the competition and the 2023/2024 Junior Minister of Tourism, received a laptop to support her educational endeavors.

During the event, Ms. Tracey Browne, Manager of the Tourism Education Training and Awareness Unit, spoke highly of all participants, praising their dedication and passion for the field of tourism.

She emphasized the importance of exchanging knowledge and commended their innovative ideas, stating that they would undoubtedly shape the future of the tourism industry in the country.

Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of tourism and its impact on the country’s economy.

He emphasized that a significant portion of every dollar entering the country comes from tourism, and it is crucial to prioritize the well-being of residents.

The Minister stressed that every person in Antigua and Barbuda is an ambassador for the nation, promoting it to the world.

Minister Fernandez acknowledged the contributions of individuals working in the tourism sector, comparing their importance to that of police, nurses, and teachers.

He praised the younger generation for their innovation and expressed confidence in the future of tourism in the country.

The National Tourism Youth Congress, an annual event organized by the Tourism Education, Training, and Awareness Unit within the Ministry of Tourism and Investment, provides a forum for students between the ages of 14 to 17 to discuss their ideas about the future direction of Caribbean Tourism.

The winner then represents Antigua and Barbuda at The Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress, an integral part of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s annual tourism conference.