The Saint Lucia Tourism Awards, known as GIMIES, has unveiled its nine distinguished finalists for the highly anticipated People’s Choice Award as the program enters its fourth consecutive year. These exceptional individuals have been recognized for their remarkable contributions to visitor experiences, innovative approaches, and positive community impact within the island’s tourism sector.
The selected finalists represent diverse facets of Saint Lucia’s tourism industry, including culinary experts, tour guides, hospitality entrepreneurs, and wellness service providers. The distinguished list features Akim Francis (Chef, Bursting with Flavour), Avelyn Joseph (Owner, Happy Nest), Elver Descartes (Tour Guide, ATV Direct), Heidi St Clair (Owner, St Clair’s Sitting Services), Iva La Toya Lewis (Celebrity Make-Up Artist, Glamour Art by Toya), Kirk Elliot (Community-Based Tourism Entrepreneur), Michel Gaspard (Civil Status Marriage Officer), Ngugi Lucien (Vegan Chef, Grassrootz Vegan Cuisine), and Shervon Charles (Tour Guide, Unique Stables 758).
Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire emphasized the awards’ significant role in elevating service standards across the industry. He noted that since the inception of GIMIES, the commitment to ongoing progress has driven remarkable improvements in service quality, with participants consistently enhancing their offerings each year.
The awards program has demonstrated measurable impact, with judges observing substantial growth among previous nominees who have returned as stronger contenders, reflecting the sector’s resilience and dedication to excellence.
Public voting is now underway through March 31, 2026, allowing travelers, residents, and industry stakeholders to recognize individuals who have made lasting impressions within tourism. The top three vote-getters will be honored at the upcoming awards ceremony, which will be live-streamed on NTN and various social media platforms, with viewers encouraged to participate in online viewing parties.
The GIMIES are supported by numerous organizations including the Ministry of Tourism, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, and Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association, along with ultra-premium partners such as St Lucia Times, Bank of Saint Lucia, and FLOW.