MPE CARIBBEAN REPORT NEWSLETTER – MAY 1, 2023

May 2, 2023

MAY 1, 2023

The Caribbean celebrates Labor Day

Several Caribbean countries celebrated Labor Day today, reminding us that the honest work of generations has paved the way for succeeding generations to enjoy lives of dignity, sound health, and quality education.

Let us express our gratitude to those who continue to toil on behalf of their families, communities, and nations. Additionally, it is essential to extend our support to those who are currently without jobs, validating their hardships and encouraging them to persevere. Unemployment can be a heavy blow, but by reaching out and offering a helping hand and an open ear, we can assist our brothers and sisters through challenging times.

Across all faiths, honest work is venerated, and the dignity of labor is deeply respected. On this Labor Day, we honor the principles of labor, unity, and compassion, as we strive towards a brighter future for all.

Countdown to CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace

Nicola Madden-Greig, OD

The 41st Caribbean Travel Marketplace, produced by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), is one week out.

Taking place in Barbados from May 9 to 11, this eagerly awaited event marks the first time the meeting will be held on the island, and the anticipation among industry professionals is palpable.

CHTA president Nicola Madden-Greig disclosed that the upcoming event will showcase a wide array of Caribbean hotels, attractions, and destinations on the trade show floor, providing an exceptional platform for business and networking opportunities.

Marketplace will feature the largest contingent to date of buyers from the United Kingdom, tourism professionals who are eager to engage in fruitful collaborations with industry players from the region.

The Caribbean has demonstrated remarkable resilience in its tourism industry, emerging as the world’s number one recovering region. This achievement can be attributed to the power of partnership and collaboration.

The Caribbean Travel Forum, scheduled just before the official opening of Marketplace on Tuesday, May 9, will serve as a platform for public and private sector leaders to discuss the future of Caribbean tourism and expand upon the successes already achieved.

The forum will feature panels addressing the crucial topics of resilience and technology, providing valuable insights into the region’s present and future tourism landscape. Attendees can expect to receive up-to-date, comprehensive data on the state of Caribbean tourism, helping them make informed decisions for their businesses.

For more information, visit chtamarketplace.com.

Barbados Prime Minister to welcome delegates

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley will personally welcome delegates attending Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Barbados next week.

In addition to delivering the keynote address at the Caribbean Travel Forum, themed “Tourism: The key driver of generational wealth for Caribbean nationals” on Tuesday, May 9, the popular PM will later host the opening celebration at Ilaro Court, her official residence.

Delegates will immerse themselves in Barbados’ rich, vibrant culture during the opening celebration as the destination presents “Barbados: A World of Difference”, highlighting the unique offerings of the island, including captivating local performances, visual arts, and delightful culinary experiences.

The closing ceremony will be a celebration of Bajan heritage on Thursday, May 11. Delegates are invited to dress in blue and gold at the historic Charles Fort, located at Hilton Barbados Resort.

Digital Digest

Importance of Cybersecurity

In today’s digital age, with the increased reliance on technology for professional and personal use, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Networks and data are under constant threat and need to be monitored diligently, while security measures need to be resourced adequately to ensure digital safety.

Here are some reasons why cybersecurity is so important:

Sensitive data: Cybersecurity helps to protect sensitive data such as personal information, financial data, and intellectual property. A breach in security can have serious consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and damage to a business’ reputation.
Cyber attacks: Cyber attacks can take many forms, from scams to malware and ransomware. Therefore, it is necessary to have cybersecurity protocols implemented organization-wide.
Regulatory compliance: Many businesses are required to comply with regulations regarding data protection and cybersecurity. Failure to do so can lead to legal consequences and business loss.
Reputational damage: A cyber attack, whether personal or organizational, can cause significant distress. A business exposed to such a mishap can lose customer trust and prospects.
Investment: Cybersecurity investment can be made based on the type of organization, nature of the business, and the geographic spread of the business and its team. This investment comes with heavy returns in terms of safety and security. At the same time, there is a risk of heavy financial and legal loss if not taken seriously.

Cybersecurity lapses can cause business and customer trust loss. This is one area that no one should take lightly, ignore or procrastinate over. The benefits of keeping yourself and your business safe far outweigh the costs.

Medical Moment

World Hand Hygiene Day takes place on May 5, 2023 under the theme “Accelerate action together. SAVE LIVES — Clean Your Hands”.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is renewing its support to countries and health facilities in their journey towards hand hygiene improvement and promotes innovation to achieve improvements in hand hygiene practices in health care.

Hand hygiene means cleaning your hands by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and prevent spreading germs to others.

Hand hygiene saves millions of lives every year when performed at the right moments during health care delivery.

Attending to hygiene and cleanliness are a sign of respect to those seeking care and facilitate the work of those delivering it.

For more information visit:

https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-hand-hygiene-day/2023.

Barbados Break

The MPE Caribbean Report Newsletter, along with our other editorial products, will not be available during the week of May 8 as our team will be attending CHTA’s Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Barbados.

We will resume our regular coverage the week of May 14, and look forward to sharing news and insightful articles, including updates from the Barbados meeting, upon our return.

If you will be in Barbados for Marketplace, we would love to connect with you. Alternatively, we’ll be happy to engage with you when our coverage recommences.

Wherever you’ll be, make it a blessed and productive week.

Thank you for your continued support!