The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the return of its flagship Regional Tourism Youth Congress, set to take place during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados from September 30 to October 3, 2025. This year’s event, organized in collaboration with the Barbados Ministry of Tourism and International Transport and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., will bring together 16 young delegates aged 14 to 17 from across the Caribbean, each representing their respective countries as “Junior Ministers/Commissioners of Tourism.”
The Youth Congress, a cornerstone of CTO’s developmental initiatives, aims to cultivate the next generation of tourism leaders by encouraging critical thinking, innovative ideas, and effective communication. Participants will present their research and perspectives on the future of Caribbean tourism, offering insights into how the region can evolve and thrive in the coming decades. The event will also feature a Tourism Youth Congress Master Class led by Ed Limon, CEO of Winged Whale Media, and a career-focused workshop facilitated by Davina Layne of Your Corporate Image.
Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s Director of Resource Mobilization and Development, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “This is more than a competition; it’s a pathway to developing future advocates and innovators who will shape the trajectory of Caribbean tourism.” The Congress is supported by key sponsors, including Breeze Travel Solutions, Carnival Corporation & plc, and Winged Whale Media, underscoring its importance as a platform for youth empowerment and regional development.
Last year’s competition, held in the Cayman Islands, saw Keyana Warner of Nevis emerge as the winner, impressing judges with her visionary ideas. This year’s event promises to be equally inspiring, with young leaders poised to showcase their passion and creativity in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the Caribbean tourism industry. For more details, visit https://sotic.onecaribbean.org.