Antigua and Barbuda took center stage during Caribbean Week in New York as the destination proudly served as Title Sponsor of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner and Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of women across the regional tourism industry.

The prestigious event brought together some of the Caribbean’s most influential female leaders, innovators, executives, and changemakers for an evening dedicated to recognizing excellence, inspiring future generations, and highlighting the critical role women continue to play in the development of tourism throughout the region.

Tourism officials said the evening served not only as a celebration of women in leadership positions, but also as a tribute to the countless women working tirelessly behind the scenes across the tourism sector. These include entrepreneurs, marketers, hotel professionals, administrators, public servants, and mothers balancing demanding careers and personal responsibilities while helping Caribbean destinations thrive.

In remarks delivered during the ceremony, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez praised the resilience, dedication, and leadership of women within Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry and across the wider Caribbean.

“Behind every successful tourism destination are women whose hard work, sacrifice, and vision continue to shape the future of our industry,” Fernandez noted.

Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James, also participated in the evening’s programme, offering a special prayer in honour of the women gathered for the event and recognizing their invaluable contributions to regional tourism and economic development.

The event additionally marked the official launch of the CTO Foundation’s new scholarship initiative titled “From Her to Her: From Today’s Female Leaders to Tomorrow’s Tourism Stars.” The programme is aimed at supporting and empowering the next generation of women pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality throughout the Caribbean.

Organizers described the initiative as a meaningful investment in the future of Caribbean tourism and a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship, leadership, and opportunity for young women entering the industry.

As Caribbean Week activities continue in New York, Antigua and Barbuda joined regional partners in saluting the women who continue to lead, inspire, innovate, and help shape communities and economies across the Caribbean through tourism.