The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has elected Barbados to lead the organization as its new Chairman for the next two years.
This decision was made during the CTO’s Ministerial Council meeting held in the Cayman Islands, alongside the annual State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC). Barbados' Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, will take on the role of Chairman of the Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism. Meanwhile, Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., will serve as Chairman of the CTO Board of Directors.
Barbados succeeds the Cayman Islands, whose tenure was led by Minister of Tourism and Ports Kenneth Bryan and Director of Tourism Rosa Harris.
During the Cayman Islands' term, the CTO accomplished several notable milestones:
- Appointment of a new Secretary General and CEO, Dona Regis-Prosper
- Initiation of a "reimagine" strategy to strengthen the organization
- Re-engagement of former members, including the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bermuda
- Enhanced communication initiatives internally and externally
Reflecting on his term, outgoing Chair Kenneth Bryan stated: "I hope that I’m leaving this organization in a stronger position and well-placed to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead."
He praised his team, especially Director of Tourism Rosa Harris, for their dedication and service. Incoming Chair Ian Gooding-Edghill expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the CTO, emphasizing unity and the collective effort required to advance the organization.
"Under my leadership, with the help of all my colleagues, we will certainly continue to advance the cause of the Caribbean Tourism Organization," he said. Members of the CTO expressed their gratitude for the strong leadership provided by Minister Bryan and Director Harris during the Cayman Islands' chairmanship, acknowledging their significant contributions to the organization’s progress and future direction.
