The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) kicked off Caribbean Week 2025 by hosting the second annual Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards, celebrating the remarkable contributions of female leaders across the tourism sector in the region. The event, held at the Westin New York at Times Square, attracted industry professionals, dignitaries, and tourism stakeholders to honor the achievements of exceptional women whose leadership has shaped the Caribbean tourism landscape.
The evening, filled with toasts, storytelling, and a heartfelt keynote by Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the achievements and personal journeys of the awardees.
The evening culminated with the presentation of several prestigious awards, recognizing women for their outstanding leadership in tourism, advocacy for cultural preservation, and significant contributions to the region’s economic development.
The awardees were:
The event was a celebration of the resilience and commitment of women in leadership roles in Caribbean tourism, who have navigated numerous challenges while driving progress and development.
Rosa Harris, who recently served as the Chairman of the CTO Board of Directors, delivered a deeply personal speech, reflecting on the dual roles women balance in both leadership and personal life. She spoke candidly about caregiving, family responsibilities, and the importance of confidence and purpose in leadership.
Karolin Troubetzkoy, the second female president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, received the Secretary-General’s Distinguished Service Award. Troubetzkoy, a seasoned leader in the Caribbean tourism industry, spoke poignantly about her personal loss of her husband and business partner, Nick, and her continued dedication to the sustainable development of Caribbean tourism.
Petra Roach, the outgoing CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, was recognized for her significant contributions to the tourism sector in Grenada. Roach spoke about her journey of service and growth, inspiring future generations of women in tourism leadership roles.
A significant part of the evening’s program was the official launch of the CTO’s inaugural women’s leadership magazine, titled From the Sea Suite. The magazine highlights the incredible stories of 40 remarkable women in Caribbean tourism, many of whom have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to drive the industry forward. The magazine is a tribute to the women who have been the quiet engine of the tourism sector and are now stepping into the spotlight as leading forces in the industry.
The 2025 Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards not only celebrated the accomplishments of individual women but also highlighted the collective progress that has been made in the region’s tourism sector. This event underscored the growing importance of gender-inclusive leadership in tourism and the need for continued efforts to promote women’s empowerment and leadership in the industry.
As the Caribbean continues to recover from global challenges and reshape its tourism future, events like the Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards offer a vital space for recognition, collaboration, and inspiration. The region’s tourism industry is evolving, and with the leadership of these exceptional women, it is clear that the future of Caribbean tourism is in capable hands.
For more information about the Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards and future initiatives by the Caribbean Tourism Organization, visit the CTO website and stay updated on efforts to empower women in tourism across the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards is an annual celebration of the women who have helped shape the future of Caribbean tourism.
Through their leadership, resilience, and innovation, these women continue to inspire and drive positive change, paving the way for the next generation of tourism leaders across the Caribbean. The region’s commitment to gender-inclusive leadership promises to strengthen the tourism sector and create more opportunities for women in the industry.
