The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has honoured a distinguished group of industry VIPs for their longstanding commitment to promoting Antigua and Barbuda by presenting them with the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Tourism.
The awards ceremony was held in New York City with Tourism Minister, Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, ABTA’s CEO, Colin C. James, and Director of Tourism for the USA, Dean Fenton in attendance.
The ceremony recognized travel professionals, media partners, and community leaders who have made significant contributions to the destination’s growth and success. The official delegation included Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Walton Webson, and Senator Alincia Williams-Grant.
The Tourism Minister Fernandez stated, “Our success is driven by the passion, dedication, and hard work of these professionals who consistently go above and beyond in advocating for Antigua and Barbuda.”
He added, “We take great pride in celebrating their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate strengthening these vital partnerships.” Minister Fernandez highlighted the late Sir Rob Barrett, founder of Elite Island Resorts, acknowledging his significant contributions to developing Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry, and also recognized Elite’s team members, Larry Basham, Sherrie Ault, and John Cather, for their tremendous commitment to the industry’s growth.
CEO Colin C. James remarked, “From the Travel Advisors and Public Relations Specialists, everyone honoured, has played a crucial role in showcasing the magic of Antigua and Barbuda to the world. Their efforts have greatly influenced our tourism industry, ensuring our islands remain among the Caribbean’s premier destinations.” ABTA USA Director of Tourism, Dean Fenton, commended the recipients, saying, “I am extremely proud to recognize our exceptional business partners, whose unwavering support and dedication have played a significant role in elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry.”
The distinguished honourees in attendance included Brenda O’Neale, Travel Advisor and Chair of the Antigua & Barbuda Travel Agent Advisory Board; Lila Nicholas, Travel Advisor and Chair of the Professional Travel Agents of North America (PATANA) National Advisory Board; Brenda Cole, Travel Advisor and President of PATANA; Corrine Mutarelli, Travel Advisor and Past President of the Alliance of Westchester Travel Agencies (AWTA); and Ralph Vasami, President of Kiwanis Yonkers and former President of the New York American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA).
Adrian Surgeon, Graphics and Design Specialist; Antiguan chefs Edward Murphy and Melvin Myers; Artistic Designer Dave Ray; Marilyn Pires, Travel Account Manager and Executive Assistant to ABTA USA Director Dean Fenton; Noel Mignott, founder of the Portfolio Marketing Group, the public relations firm responsible for maintaining the visibility of Antigua and Barbuda in the United States; and Alison Ross, a former partner at PMG, were among the honourees. Also included on the VIP awards list were Genevieve Edwards of Sharp Travel International, Henry Watkins, owner of the Watkins Media Group, and industry supporter Roberta Diaz.
