CTO to Launch Scholarship Fund for Caribbean Women in Tourism

THE CARIBBEAN Tourism Organization (CTO) said it will launch a new scholarship fund dedicated to empowering the next generation of Caribbean women in tourism at its Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner & Awards on June 1, 2026. Titled “From Her to Her: From Today’s Female Leaders to Tomorrow’s Tourism Stars,” the CTO said in a release that the programme will provide annual support for a promising female student from the Caribbean pursuing studies and a career in tourism. All proceeds from the June 1, event will directly fund the scholarship through the CTO Foundation.

The dinner and awards ceremony at the InterContinental NewYork Times Square during Caribbean Week in NewYork will honour leading female luminaries in Caribbean tourism. Honorees will include ministers and directors of tourism from across the region, recipients of the Secretary-General’s Distinguished Service Awards, and inductees into a new Hall of Fame designation recognizing outstanding leadership.

“As the first female secretary-general of CTO, fostering opportunities for women in tourism is both a professional priority and a personal passion,” said CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper.

“This scholarship embodies the spirit of mentorship, legacy and opportunity. We are investing in the talent that will shape the future of our region’s most vital industry.”

Chair of the CTO Foundation, Jacqueline Johnson added: “This initiative effectively captures the spirit of mentorship and the legacy we aim to build.The CTO Foundation team looks forward to a successful launch and to supporting the next generation of Caribbean women leaders in tourism”.

Valued partners, including Virgin Voyages, Diamonds International and TRÈFLE, have already committed support, with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority sponsoring the dinner event. The CTS said the initiative reflects a broader commitment to gender equity and leadership development across Caribbean tourism.

The Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner & Awards is part of Caribbean Week 2026 celebrations.