Caribbean Tourism Organization Foundation 2025 Scholarship Awards, Meet the Future Leaders Who Will Transform the Region’s Tourism Industry – Travel And Tour World

Published on September 18, 2025
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) recently announced the names of nine outstanding individuals who have been chosen to receive the 2025 CTO Scholarship Awards. These awards aim to support the recipients’ pursuit of studies in key fields essential for the future of the Caribbean tourism sector, including sustainable tourism management, data analytics, digital marketing, and hospitality finance. These areas are crucial for maintaining the Caribbean’s competitive edge in the global tourism market. The scholarships are designed to empower young professionals who will help the region adapt to new challenges and lead the tourism industry in a constantly evolving global landscape.
The announcement was made on the occasion of the 28th anniversary of the CTO Scholarship Foundation, marking an important milestone in the foundation’s ongoing efforts to foster future leaders for the region’s tourism industry.

Advertisement
The Vital Role of Tourism in the Caribbean Economy
Tourism plays an essential role in the Caribbean economy, being one of the most important sources of employment, foreign exchange earnings, and overall regional development. This sector is a key driver for local businesses and communities across the Caribbean, contributing significantly to economic prosperity. Given the pivotal role that tourism plays in the region, the CTO Scholarship Foundation has focused its efforts on nurturing the next generation of leaders by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly changing global tourism environment.

Advertisement

Since its inception in 1997, the CTO Scholarship Foundation has made a substantial impact, investing over US$1.3 million in scholarships and grants. More than 310 students have benefitted from the foundation’s support, with many now occupying influential positions within the tourism industry. These include roles such as hotel CEOs, destination marketing directors, sustainability officers, and entrepreneurs. By partnering with 18 universities and online learning platforms, the foundation also ensures that students have access to the most current educational resources, preparing them for the challenges they will face in the tourism sector.
Honoring Visionary Leaders Through Memorial Scholarships

Advertisement
The 2025 scholarships are named in honor of several influential figures who have made lasting contributions to the Caribbean tourism industry. These memorial scholarships are a tribute to the pioneers whose work continues to inspire and shape the region’s tourism landscape. The scholarships include:

• Jean Holder Memorial Scholarship: Offering up to US$7,500, this scholarship is dedicated to studies in Sustainable Tourism Development. It honors Jean Holder, the first Secretary-General of the CTO, a visionary who played a pivotal role in establishing eco-tourism in the Caribbean.
• Audrey Palmer Hawks Memorial Scholarship: This US$5,000 scholarship supports studies in Public Relations, Communications, or Brand Management. It honors Audrey Palmer Hawks, the first woman and Caribbean national to lead the Caribbean Tourism Association.
• Bonita Morgan Memorial Scholarship: Awarding US$5,000, this scholarship is named after Bonita Morgan, a passionate advocate for youth development and education in tourism. It is designed for students pursuing studies in Tourism Education or Human Resource Development.
• Arley Sobers Memorial Scholarship: This US$5,000 scholarship is dedicated to students studying Tourism Research, Statistics, Data Science, IT, or Cybersecurity, in honor of Arley Sobers, a leader in promoting data-driven decision-making in tourism.

Additionally, the CTO Foundation Grant offers US$2,500 for studies in any tourism-related discipline. A new partnership with George Washington University also provides five scholarships worth US$1,890 each for the Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Destination Management Program.
The 2025 Scholarship Recipients
The recipients of the 2025 scholarships represent a diverse and talented group of young professionals from across the Caribbean. These individuals were selected based on their potential to make significant contributions to the tourism industry. Their dedication to shaping the future of the sector is clear, as they demonstrate a deep commitment to sustainable tourism and its role in the region’s economic and environmental future.
The 2025 scholarship recipients are:

• Florida Caribbean Cruise Association/Owen Arthur Scholarship – US$5,000
  Jeanique Hypolite — Dominica
• CTO Scholarship Foundation Grant – US$2,500
  Abigale Forbes — Jamaica
• Bonita Morgan Memorial Scholarship – US$5,000
  Katrina Bacchus — Barbados
• Jean Holder Memorial Scholarship – US$5,000
  Sierra Blair — The Bahamas
• Sustainable Tourism Destination Management – US$1,890 Per Student
  Marelva Samantha Boone — St. Kitts
  Keron Moore — Grenada
  Ornique Maynard — St. Kitts
  Larissa Hosein — Trinidad & Tobago
  Maya Nottage — The Bahamas

These scholars now have the opportunity to further their education and career development, enabling them to have a lasting impact on the future of Caribbean tourism.
Mentorship: A Cornerstone for Future Tourism Leaders
As part of the 2025 scholarship program, the recipients will benefit from a range of resources, including mentorship from senior executives in the tourism industry. This mentorship will be essential in guiding the scholars through their academic journeys and providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the tourism sector’s intricacies.
In addition to mentorship, the scholars will receive a one-year CTO student membership and will be offered priority placement in internships within the CTO’s network of 25 member states. These opportunities will allow the scholars to gain practical, hands-on experience that is vital for understanding the operational aspects of tourism. By nurturing these young talents, the CTO is helping ensure that the Caribbean tourism industry will have a new generation of leaders who are well-prepared to take on the evolving challenges of the sector.
These mentorship opportunities, combined with internship experiences, will equip the scholars with the skills and insights necessary to become effective leaders. Their contributions will be instrumental in adapting the Caribbean tourism industry to future challenges, helping the region stay competitive and attractive to global travelers.
Building a Sustainable Future for Caribbean Tourism
The role of education in ensuring the future sustainability of Caribbean tourism cannot be overstated. The CTO Scholarship Foundation’s investment in the next generation of tourism professionals is essential for maintaining the Caribbean’s position as a leader in global tourism. The 2025 scholarship recipients will return to their home countries with the expertise needed to enhance the visitor experience, protect the region’s natural resources, and foster sustainable tourism practices.
These young leaders will contribute to the ongoing development of tourism in the Caribbean, helping to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. Their work will ensure that the tourism sector continues to provide economic opportunities for local communities while preserving the region’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
Through their efforts, the scholars will help redefine the Caribbean as a sustainable and innovative tourism destination. Their contributions will support both the region’s economic growth and its environmental preservation, ensuring that it remains a premier destination for travelers seeking authentic and eco-conscious travel experiences.
The Global Impact: Transforming the Travel Industry
The 2025 CTO Scholarship program has a broader impact that extends well beyond the Caribbean. As one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, the Caribbean plays a key role in the global travel market, and the foundation’s investment in young professionals will help ensure that the region remains competitive on the international stage.
This program’s impact will be felt by global travelers, as the scholars will bring fresh perspectives on sustainability, technology, and customer experience. By improving tourism management, increasing awareness of sustainable practices, and enhancing service quality, the Caribbean tourism industry will continue to attract travelers from around the world who are seeking new and meaningful experiences.
As these young leaders return to their home countries, they will apply their newly acquired knowledge to improve the region’s tourism offerings. Their work will help the Caribbean maintain its position as one of the world’s top tourism destinations, while meeting the evolving demands of today’s travelers.
A Stronger, More Sustainable Caribbean Tourism Future
The 2025 CTO Scholarship program represents a critical investment in the future of Caribbean tourism. By providing scholarships to the next generation of tourism professionals, the CTO is ensuring that the Caribbean continues to thrive as a global leader in tourism. As the scholarship recipients complete their studies and gain real-world experience, they will be well-positioned to address the sector’s challenges and create innovative solutions that promote sustainability, enhance the visitor experience, and protect the Caribbean’s cultural and natural assets.
These young leaders will play an essential role in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism, ensuring that the region remains competitive and attractive to travelers worldwide. The CTO Scholarship Foundation’s investment in these future leaders will have a lasting impact on the tourism sector, helping it to grow, innovate, and succeed for generations to come. Through their work, the Caribbean will remain a vibrant and sustainable destination, capable of offering authentic and eco-friendly experiences to global travelers.

Advertisement
Tags: caribbean tourism, Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), tourism updates

I want to receive travel news and trade event update from Travel And Tour World. I have read Travel And Tour World’sPrivacy Notice.
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Wednesday, September 17, 2025

source