It is that time of year again to shine a bright light on those hard-working and dedicated individuals within the tourism Industry in the Cayman Islands. On Tuesday, June 23rd 2015, the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman will be a buzz with stalwarts and hopefuls in the industry to see who will receive the coveted Stingray Tourism Awards this year. The Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) will host its 12th annual Cayman Stingray Tourism Awards event starting at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail/welcome reception, and awards dinner beginning at 7:00 p.m. The main purpose of this initiative is to highlight and appreciate those individuals that have set themselves apart from the rest through their outstanding achievements and stellar service. CITA’s Executive Director, Ms. Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks, says “With reports over the last twelve months outlining increased visitor arrivals to the Cayman Islands, it must be noted that it is our people who have put in the effort to ensure that our product is one that visitors will want to come back to. As our Association represents some 250 such establishments across our three islands, it is very fitting for us to celebrate the accolades of these men and women who make our industry great. We are looking forward to receiving nominations and hosting a wonderful Awards event on June 23rd at the Ritz-Carlton.”

The Stingray Tourism Awards allow CITA member businesses to nominate their top performers for the esteemed Manager and Employee of the Year awards in the following sectors:

 Accommodations

 Watersports

 Restaurants

 Allied, Attractions and Transportation (Allied includes retail, services, media, arts and entertainment)

Outside of the above, the Rising Star Award is bestowed on someone who shows promise in the field of tourism; there is a Long Service Award for service in the hospitality industry over 15 years; and the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Nominations are open and will be accepted through 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3rd, 2015.

For information on the rules and regulations and how to nominate an outstanding employee or manager, persons may visit the CITA website www.cita.ky/stingrayawards 2015 and complete the nomination form. Tickets for the awards gala can also be reserved through the CITA office for CI$90 per person, or $850 for a table of 10 persons. The CITA invites all family, co-workers and friends to attend and show their support for the talented individuals who will be honoured on the awards evening.

The Cayman Stingray Tourism Awards is made possible through the generous support of CITA members and the wider community. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are still available. Persons are asked to contact Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks at [email protected] or phone 949-8522 for further details on how to get involved.

While CITA is seeking additional partners and sponsors to come on board to support the 2015 Awards, the team is thrilled to have on board Venue Sponsor, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman as well as Welcome Reception Sponsor, The Westin, Grand Cayman. “The Westin Grand Cayman has always been in support of the Stingray Awards. We truly believe that it is important to recognize and celebrate those individuals who excel in the tourism industry and that contribute to the community in all phases of charitable work…that’s Cayman Kind!” said Mr. Morty Valldejuli, Area Managing Director and General Manager of the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa.

The host venue relays similar sentiments regarding their support of the awards “The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is proud to host and support such an outstanding award ceremony, that demonstrates the achievements of ladies and gentlemen who deserve recognition within an industry we are so familiar. Our tourism industry has experienced unprecedented success in the last few years, becoming more significant in the economic development of the Island, and it is key to take the time to highlight those that work exceptionally hard to keep this sector thriving. Many go unrecognized, and with this annual award ceremony many distinguished professionals are brought to light.” said Mr. Marc Langevin, General Manager of the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.

CITA Background:

The Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) was formed in March 2001, through an amalgamation of the Cayman Tourism Alliance and the Cayman Islands Hotel and Condominium Association. The CITA represents tourism businesses from all sectors, including hotels, condominiums and villas, watersports operators, restaurants, attractions, airlines, tourism transport providers, cruise sector businesses and allied tourism service providers. The CITA represents close to 250 tourism businesses and is active in the areas of industry and government relations, marketing and events, industry development and education.

To nominate got to: http://cita.formstack.com/forms/2015stingrayawardsnominations

Photos:

CITA Board of Directors stand ready to greet attendees at the Stingray Awards event held at The Westin Grand Cayman in 2014.

2014 Award winners