REPRESENTATIVES FROM CARNIVAL CORPORATION AND TOURISM OFFICIALS VISIT CFBC HOSPITALITY DIVISION
Basseterre, St. Kitts, 30th October, 2024 (CFBC): As part of the activities leading up to Tourism Awareness Month, which is observed annually in November, along with the commencement of the 2024-2025 cruise season in October, tourism officials, accompanied by representatives from Carnival Corporation, visited the CFBC Hospitality Division on 29th October, 2024, to discuss the critical importance of sustainable tourism development and the vital role of hospitality in the sustainable tourism industry. During their visit, they emphasized how exceptional hospitality services can significantly enhance the overall visitor experience, fostering positive impressions and encouraging repeat visits. The discussions focused on the importance of training and education in hospitality to ensure that professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality service.
By collaborating with educational institutions like the CFBC, tourism industry leaders aim to inspire and prepare students to meet the evolving demands of the tourism sector, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the industry.
Speaking at the forum, Interim President of the CFBC, Dr. Moyia Rowtham underscored the CFBC’s commitment to training students for the tourism and hospitality sector.
“This seminar is indicative of CFBC’s commitment to the St. Kitts Tourism Authority and its partners as they chart courses that enhance our islands appeal to travellers from around the world. Your partnership not only fuels our local economy but also opens invaluable doors to our students exposing them to the dynamism of the tourism industry—for this, we are grateful,” Dr. Rowtham said.
Dr. Rowtham thanked the dedicated CFBC team of lecturers, adjunct lecturers and technicians led by Dean of the Division of Technical Vocational Education and Management Studies (TVEMS), Mr. Terry Hanley and Director of Hospitality, Ms. Marsha Bassue, for the exceptional training of the hospitality students.
“As we sail into another year, CFBC remains committed to enhancing this group of learning, growth and collaboration. Each port of call, each visit to our shores, brings new stories, vibrant exchanges and an ever-deepening connection between the CFBC, the St. Kitts Tourism Authority and our esteemed cruise partners. Thank you for including us in your journey, one filled with opportunity and the steady wings of support for our college community. May the season be filled with unforgettable moments and add to the vibrant tapestry of St. Kitts,” Dr. Rowtham added.
The Minister of Tourism, Hon. Marsha Henderson, in her brief remarks to the students gathered in the Poinciana Conference Room, emphasized the crucial role of hospitality in building a sustainable island state. She highlighted that the country’s future heavily relies on the students’ contributions to the tourism and hospitality sector. She told them that by taking their education seriously, they will be well-prepared to fill numerous jobs within the industry, thereby playing a pivotal role in the sustainable island state agenda by ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the nation’s tourism, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and resilient part of the economy.
Mr. Javonte Anyabwele, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing for IT, Corporate Indirect, Ports and Onboard Revenue at Carnival Corporation gave a motivational speech to the students telling them that in order to get to where they are, they must know who they are.
With a powerful message, he underscored to the students the importance of courage, resolve, and strength of character. He emphasized that they must possess grit—the tenacity to face challenges head-on and the resilience to rise after every setback. He inspired them with the notion that the only true failure is when one stops trying, urging them to persist through adversity and to never lose sight of their goals. His words resonated deeply, encouraging the students to embrace every obstacle as an opportunity to grow and succeed.
Mr. Terry Hanley gave the vote of thanks and Ms. Marsha Bassue gave the welcome and CFBC team introductions.
Other officials at the forum included Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Ms. Tivanna Wharton; Product Development Manager at the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, Ms. Golda Franks; Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs (Ag) Ms. Wanda Hughes; Ms. Odette McFarlane, Director of Home Port Operations, Carnival UK and Ms. Charlene Drakes, Manager of Stakeholder Engagements for the Caribbean Region.
