Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, has been elected as the new Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). The election took place during the CTO’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in the Cayman Islands earlier this week. Gooding-Edghill will now lead the CTO’s Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism for the next two years, taking over from Kenneth Bryan, the outgoing chairman from the Cayman Islands.
This prestigious appointment highlights Barbados’ growing influence in Caribbean tourism. Gooding-Edghill expressed his appreciation for the opportunity, stating, “It is a great honor for Barbados to be chosen to represent the region at this level. I am deeply committed to working with my colleagues across the Caribbean to strengthen our tourism sector, drive sustainable growth, and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration to position the Caribbean as the world’s top tourist destination.
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Gooding-Edghill’s leadership follows a period of rejuvenation for the CTO under Kenneth Bryan, who played a critical role in steering the organization through the post-pandemic recovery. Achievements during Bryan’s tenure included appointing a new Secretary General, Dona Regis-Prosper, and welcoming the re-engagement of key members like the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bermuda. Bryan praised his team’s efforts in reinvigorating the organization and expressed confidence in Gooding-Edghill’s ability to continue advancing Caribbean tourism.
In addition, Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., will serve as the new Chairman of the CTO’s Board of Directors. Together, Gooding-Edghill and Franklin will steer the CTO’s strategic efforts, focusing on sustainable tourism development, marketing, and enhancing the region’s appeal as a year-round, warm-weather destination.
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This election positions Barbados at the forefront of regional tourism leadership, with plans to capitalize on its success and further bolster the Caribbean’s global tourism reputation.
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