ANTIGUA & BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has emerged victorious in the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), clinching the top prize in the People Development and Support category for its Unveiling Hospitality Professional Series.

The esteemed accolade was officially revealed today during the closing Awards Luncheon at CHIEF, hosted by the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association (CHTA) in Miami.

In attendance at the conference, Patrice Simon, the Executive Director of ABHTA, graciously accepted the award on behalf of the Association. In expressing her gratitude, she stated, "I feel extremely honored to receive this award on behalf of the extraordinary team at ABHTA. The Unveiling Hospitality Professionals Series was a strategic initiative to inspire the next generation of Hospitality Professionals. It was imperative for our Association to spotlight the numerous nationals of Antigua and Barbuda who have made exceptional contributions to the hospitality industry."

Reflecting on the program's future, Mrs. Simon added, "I'm thrilled to share that there are countless stories to tell, and we eagerly anticipate continuing to celebrate all our extraordinary professionals. I extend heartfelt thanks to CHTA for acknowledging our Association in this manner. A profound sense of gratitude is also extended to all our professionals whose stories we've shared. Thank you all for your service and dedication to the advancement of our industry."

Craig Marshall, Chairman of ABHTA, jubilantly congratulated the team for their unwavering dedication and commitment as they persist in fulfilling the Association's mandate. Marshall emphasized, "We are steadfast in highlighting the vibrancy of the sector and celebrating the numerous team members who contribute daily to making hospitality in Antigua and Barbuda as vibrant as it is. The Association remains devoted to recounting these stories and exploring new and innovative ways to celebrate the people of our country."

The CHIEF conference concluded today after two days of intensive meetings focused on discussions related to Human Resources development, Technology, and Sustainability. Mrs. Simon participated in a panel discussion, shedding light on ABHTA's work on the Unveiling Hospitality Professionals Series under the topic "Building the Future Workforce: Strategies for Attracting, Engaging, and Retaining Top-Tier Professionals." She shared the panel with Dr. Andrew Spencer, President of the Caribbean Maritime University, and Laudra Willie, Assistant Human Resource Manager at The Landings Resort & Spa and CHTA Young Leader 2019.