Minister Fernandez Encourages Job Seekers to Build Careers in Tourism

Tourism Minister H. Charles Fernandez encouraged job seekers to explore the range of careers available in Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality industry during the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association’s (ABHTA) Hospitality Job Fair last week.

The event brought prospective employees face to face with employers, allowing participants to discuss vacancies, learn about hiring requirements and consider career paths across the sector.

Fernandez met with attendees throughout the fair, offering encouragement and practical advice on entering the industry and advancing professionally.

He stressed that tourism’s continued development must create meaningful opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans to gain experience and build lasting careers.

“Tourism is powered by our people. Every interaction a visitor has and every experience they take away from Antigua and Barbuda is shaped, in some way, by the people who work across this industry,” the Minister said.

“We must therefore continue to create opportunities for our people to participate meaningfully in the growth of tourism and to benefit from the opportunities that growth provides.”

Beyond hotel employment, the tourism industry supports careers in restaurants, transportation, aviation, yachting, cruise services, tour operations and businesses serving the visitor economy.

The fair highlighted the role of recruitment and workforce development in helping nationals access those opportunities, while giving employers a chance to connect directly with potential recruits.

Held during September, when World Tourism Day is observed on September 27, the event also placed attention on the people whose work supports the country’s tourism product.

As Antigua and Barbuda expands its tourism offerings, Fernandez underscored the importance of investing in the workforce alongside the development of the industry.