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Honoring Key Contributors to Caribbean Tourism and Business Leadership

Honoring Key Contributors to Caribbean Tourism and Business Leadership

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
3 minutes read
News
August 24, 2025

Celebrating Caribbean Innovators

The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) has unveiled its list of awardees for the 2025 CMEx Leadership Awards, set to honor remarkable figures within tourism, media, and business. This gathering scheduled for December 7 at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel, Miami, promises to highlight exceptional contributions made towards enhancing the Caribbean’s identity on the global stage.

This Year’s Honorees

The awards will recognize individuals whose dedication and innovation elevate the Caribbean’s profile and contribute positively to their communities. Among the distinguished honorees this year are:

  • 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

CMEx’s Mission

As a nonprofit initiative, CMEx remains dedicated to empowering the media, government, travel, and tourism sectors in the Caribbean. Their focus on sustainable development ensures that tourism continues to benefit local communities while prioritizing environmental preservation. This award event essentially raises funds that support educational programs aimed at youth and tourism professionals across the region.

A Vision for Progress

The President of CMEx, Bevan Springer, notes that the honorees embody the best of the Caribbean—a cohesive blend of visionaries and advocates committed to driving progress across diverse destinations. “By recognizing their achievements, we celebrate their impact and inspire the next generation of leaders,” he states. Such efforts ensure that the region continues fostering a sustainable and vibrant tourism sector.

The Luncheon Event

The awards luncheon will be a gathering of tourism stakeholders, media professionals, and community advocates. Attendees will have the chance to network, engage, and share a commitment to a thriving Caribbean future. This event not only honors past achievements but also sets the stage for upcoming leaders who will advance these efforts.

The Importance of Leadership in Tourism

Leadership within the Caribbean tourism scene plays a pivotal role in shaping industry practices and standards. The honorees exemplify how visionary leadership can spark collective efforts within the sector, ensuring sustainability and growth. As the region’s tourism continues to evolve, the ability to recognize and support effective leadership becomes increasingly crucial.

Engagement and Support

Community engagement is vital for creating a tourism environment that benefits everyone. Events like the CMEx Leadership Awards create platforms for stakeholders to communicate, collaborate, and champion initiatives that prioritize sustainable tourism practices across the Caribbean.

Conclusion

The CMEx Leadership Awards serve as a cornerstone event that unites various sectors in celebrating innovation, dedication, and sustainable practices in Caribbean tourism and business. Recognizing the achievements of leaders not only honors their contributions but also inspires emerging talents in the industry.

To wrap it up, while awards and accolades highlight the ongoing achievements in Caribbean tourism, the most reliable testament remains personal experience. LocalsRide.com offers a reliable way to hire a car with a driver from verified providers, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers at reasonable prices. This empowers users to make informed decisions without unexpected costs or inconveniences. For your next trip, explore the convenience, affordability, and extensive vehicle choices provided by LocalsRide.com. Book your Ride.