The MPE Caribbean Report Newsletter offers travel, tourism, Caribbean and global news weekly. To share stories, information or intelligence, contact us at [email protected].

MARCH 4, 2024

March is Women’s History Month

This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate the incredible impact and enduring legacy of Caribbean women who have not only carved out a rich history but are also actively shaping a future that promises greater inclusivity and equality.

We pay homage to the likes of Queen Nanny of the Maroons, an emblem of resistance and emancipation in Jamaica, and Dame Eugenia Charles, Dominica’s trailblazing first female lawyer and Prime Minister. Their stories of resilience and leadership continue to inspire us.

We also applaud contemporary leaders such as Mia Mottley, Barbados’ pioneering first female Prime Minister, who champions climate action and regional progress on an international stage, and Dr. Carla Barnett of Belize, the first woman to assume the role of Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community. These women are at the helm of change, guiding us toward a brighter future.

We are proud to honor all women whose achievements illuminate the path for future generations. Let’s continue making history together.

CTO Foundation dedicates scholarship to the late Jean Holder

The late Jean Holder

The CTO Scholarship Foundation has announced the launch of the Jean Holder Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to the late Jean Holder, the first Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).  This scholarship, valued at up to US$7,500, is designed to assist Caribbean nationals in advancing their expertise in sustainable tourism development.  Interested applicants are encouraged to apply for this and other CTO Foundation scholarships and grants for 2024 by visiting https://ctofoundation.org/apply prior to the May 10, 2024, deadline.

FCC Foundation Dinner set for Seatrade

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has relaunched its marquee event, ‘Shining Stars FCCA Foundation Dinner’. 

Scheduled for Tuesday, April 9 during Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, the event supports youth throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Backed by FCCA Member Cruise Lines, the evening will see Presidents, CEOs, and high-level cruise executives host tables to raise money for reintroducing and revising the charitable arm of the trade association.

“FCCA has a way of making business and networking fun at events like this, and I am confident that this is one not to be missed, especially considering the worthy cause it represents,” said Micky Arison, Chairman of FCCA and Carnival Corporation & plc. 

FCCA’s new partnership with Diamonds International significantly supports the event and the FCCA Foundation relaunch. 

For more details about opportunities to participate in this special evening, contact Terri Cannici at [email protected].

Quotable Caribbean

“Let us, therefore, harness the wisdom of our 50 years of existence, learning from what we have done well and what we know we can do better, and move forward with passion and determination to overcome today’s challenges. Let us welcome active participation from our youth, our women, civil society, labor organisations and the private sector, our indigenous peoples, our creatives and our athletes. Let us ensure we constantly work to bring all on board to keep our integration movement growing and beneficial to the welfare of our people. We owe no less to the people of the Caribbean Community, at home and in the Diaspora.” – Dr. Carla N. Barnett, Secretary-General, CARICOM

Photo credit: CARICOM

March Memory

Caribbean tourism stakeholders are getting set for Routes Americas 2024, the premier event for air service development in the Americas, set to take place in Bogotá, Colombia, from March 19-21. 

This important conference will convene senior professionals from airlines, airports, and destinations, providing a strategic platform for fostering valuable connections with top decision-makers in air service development from the region and beyond. 

Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s (ABTA) delegation is pictured here engaged in discussions with American Airlines at last year’s conference in Chicago. In the photograph, from left to right, are Shamoi Richards, Business Development Manager, ABTA Canada; Colin C. James, CEO of ABTA; Dean Fenton, U.S. Director of Tourism, ABTA; and Norrell Joseph, U.S. Sales and Marketing Manager, ABTA.

PR Tips

Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in PR

As society becomes more diverse and interconnected, the demand for authentic representation and inclusivity within brands and organizations is no longer a mere suggestion but a fundamental expectation. PR teams ought to champion DEI initiatives both internally and externally.

One aspect of promoting DEI in PR is the use of inclusive content in all communications. From news releases to social media posts and media pitches, we must be mindful of the content we use, ensuring it reflects and respects the diversity of our audiences. 

DEI initiatives in PR should also prioritize the amplification of diverse voices and perspectives representing different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. 

Internally, we must integrate DEI in hiring practices, workplace policies, and organizational culture. Building diverse teams not only enhances output but also fosters a sense of belonging. 

Embracing diversity and fostering inclusion must extend beyond mere lip service. It requires deliberate action and meaningful change. This safeguards a more inclusive and equitable future where every voice is valued and heard.

Medical Moment

World Health Day takes place on April 7, 2024.

This year’s theme, “My health, my right”, focuses on giving people access to health care without the prospect of financial hardship.

Countries that invest in Universal Health Care improve people’s health and life expectancy, protect countries from epidemics, reduce poverty and the risk of hunger, create jobs, drive economic growth, and enhance gender equality.

“My health, My right” focuses on the right of everyone worldwide to access health services, education, and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions, and freedom from discrimination.

Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.