Anticipation continues to grow across Saint Lucia’s vibrant tourism sector as the island prepares for its fourth annual Saint Lucia Tourism Awards, affectionately known as the GIMIES — a celebration designed to honor exceptional professionals who have elevated the island’s world-renowned visitor experience. This week, event organizers have fulfilled one of the industry’s most highly anticipated announcements, revealing the top three finalists for the award’s beloved public-voted People’s Choice category.
Following weeks of a spirited, island-wide public online voting campaign, the three finalists, listed alphabetically, are Akim Francis, a chef with the popular local dining brand Bursting with Flavors (also known as 5 Star); Elver Descartes, a professional tour guide with adventure tourism operator ATV Direct; and Shervon Charles, owner and stable hand at Unique Stables. Each of these standout professionals earned their spot in the top three by winning over both local residents and international tourists, who praised their unwavering passion for Saint Lucia, consistent dedication to service, and ability to create unforgettable, personalized travel experiences.
Organizers also highlighted the hard work and meaningful contributions of the six other candidates who advanced to the nomination stage of the award. These contenders include Avelyn Joseph, owner of Happy Nest; Heidi St. Clair, owner of St. Clair’s Sitting Services; Iva La Toya Lewis, celebrity makeup artist behind Glamour Art By Toya; Kirk Elliot, community-based tourism entrepreneur with St Lucia by Kirk; Michel Gaspard, a freelance civil status marriage officer; and Ngugi Lucien, vegan chef at Grassrootz Vegan Cuisine. Each nominee shared their personal career journeys and demonstrated ongoing commitment to lifting up Saint Lucia’s tourism industry, organizers noted.
The coveted People’s Choice Award winner will be revealed to the public on April 11, 2026, during the official GIMIES gala ceremony. For fans and supporters unable to attend the event in person, the entire ceremony will be streamed live via NTN and all official GIMIES social media channels. Organizers have encouraged community members and tourists alike to join online viewing parties to celebrate the achievements of the island’s top tourism professionals.
Full details about the GIMIES awards, nomination history, and upcoming event can be found on the official awards website at www.thegimies.org. Updates are also posted regularly to the awards’ Facebook page @thegimies and Instagram page @the_gimies, and inquiries can be sent directly to the organizing committee via email at tourismawards@stlucia.org.