2025 CMEx Leadership Awards Recognize Caribbean Achievements

2025 CMEx Leadership Awards Event Announcement

The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) has unveiled a stellar lineup of award recipients for its 2025 Leadership Awards, honoring individuals who have made substantial contributions to the fields of tourism, media, and business in the Caribbean. The event is set to take place on December 7, 2025, at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Miami.

Highlighting the Honorees

This year’s honorees exemplify excellence in various sectors within the Caribbean, demonstrating impactful leadership and dedication toward enhancing the region’s global stature.

• Dave Chang – Senior Vice President, Consumer Sales and Contact Centers, Carnival Cruise Line
• May Ling Chun – Director of Tourism, St. Maarten
• Laura Davidson – CEO/Founder, LDPR
• Muryad de Bruin – Managing Director, Curaçao Tourist Board
• Cathleen Decker – Co-founder, The Decker/Royal Agency
• Loreto Duffy-Mayers – Tourism and Sustainability Expert, Barbados
• Monique Hamaty-Simmonds – Executive Director, Tortuga Rum Company Ltd., Cayman Islands
• Luce Hodge-Smith – Junior Minister of Tourism, British Virgin Islands
• Janelle Hopkin – President and Managing Director, Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
• Vonulrick “Von” Martin – Broadcaster, Producer & Dean, Caribbeana Communications Inc.
• Shomari Scott – Chief Business Officer, Health City Cayman Islands
• Marcus Simmonds – Chief Executive Officer, Tortuga International Holdings Ltd., Cayman Islands

The Role of CMEx

The CMEx serves as a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating the strengths of local media, governmental bodies, and the tourism industry, fostering sustainable growth for Caribbean communities. The proceeds raised from the awards ceremony will contribute to educational initiatives aimed at empowering both the youth of the Caribbean and tourism professionals.

Bevan Springer, President of CMEx, emphasized the significance of these awards, stating, “Our honorees represent the best of the Caribbean — visionaries, innovators, and advocates who have tirelessly worked for the region. Celebrating their achievements not only acknowledges their contributions but also inspires the next generation of leaders who will help shape a more sustainable Caribbean.”

A Gathering of Influencers

The luncheon is expected to draw together various stakeholders from the tourism sector, industry leaders, media representatives, and community advocates. This will be an excellent opportunity for networking, celebrating success, and reaffirming a joint commitment to creating a thriving future for the Caribbean.

A Brief Historical Overview of Caribbean Tourism

Caribbean tourism has experienced substantial growth over the decades, becoming a vital economic driver for many island nations. The post-World War II era marked a significant transformation as the region shifted its focus to attract international tourists looking for sun, sand, and sea. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism have gradually taken precedence, ensuring that potential growth does not come at the expense of the environment or local cultures.

Historical events, such as the establishment of regional tourism boards, international partnerships, and the introduction of various tourism products and services, have shaped the Caribbean tourism landscape. In recent years, a movement towards eco-friendly practices and community involvement in tourism development has gained traction, indicating a promising future.

Significance of Leadership in Tourism

Leadership plays a vital role in shaping the tourism industry’s future. With effective leaders, policies that support sustainable practices, local culture preservation, and innovative marketing strategies can take root. As tourism trends evolve, such leadership will be crucial in adjusting to new challenges and enhancing the viability of tourism as an economic resource in the Caribbean.

Future Directions

The future of Caribbean tourism is likely to be influenced heavily by changing global dynamics, including shifts in consumer preferences, environmental considerations, and technological advancements. Solid leadership will be necessary to adapt to these changes, implement strategic plans, and maintain the Caribbean’s appeal as a premier travel destination. Expectations of high-quality visitor experiences will also necessitate that leaders focus on developing their workforce’s skills and competencies.

While the tourism industry faces numerous challenges, the creativity and dedication of leaders like this year’s CMEx award recipients will serve as a guiding force. They stand as symbols of hope and progress, paving the way for a vibrant and resilient future in tourism.

The awards ceremony is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the enduring spirit of innovation and collaboration within the Caribbean tourism industry.

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In summary, the 2025 CMEx Leadership Awards spotlight the exemplary efforts of individuals dedicated to promoting and sustaining Caribbean tourism while providing a platform for meaningful networking. As the industry takes strides toward a sustainable future, it remains paramount to celebrate those who pave the way for success in this vital sector.