The Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality & Tourism Association (ABHTA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), orchestrated a magnificent celebration of industry excellence on November 29th, 2025. The event, formally titled the ‘Mirror Ball Gala: A Time to Reflect and Shine,’ served as the prestigious platform for the annual Tourism Awards, recognizing the nation’s most outstanding contributors to its vital tourism sector.
The gala evening was a profound occasion to both reflect on past achievements and shine a spotlight on the individuals driving the industry forward. A diverse array of awards were presented across multiple categories, highlighting excellence from frontline service to executive leadership.
Recipients of the coveted ABHTA Awards included Albev Wade from Blue Waters Resort & Spa, named Employee of the Year, and Sophia Welch of Mill Reef Club, who earned Supervisor of the Year. The Rising Star of the Year accolade was awarded to Shemaiah Gordon of Royalton Antigua, while Leon Norville from Sandals Grande Antigua was celebrated as Young Hotelier of the Year. Culinary expertise was prominently featured, with Kahendi Jackson of Hermitage Bay named Young Chef of the Year and Jean-Pierre Tuitt of Jumby Bay Island honored as Chef of the Year.
The Ministry of Tourism bestowed its own set of distinctions. Sandy Ramsaran (Sandals Grande Antigua) received the Customer Service Excellence Award, Jahlyn Turner (Antigua & Barbuda Department of Immigration) was named Port Frontline Employee of the Year, Philbert John Baptiste (South Coast Horizons) won Tour Guide of the Year, and Ian Richards (United Taxi Company Antigua Ltd) earned the Transportation Service Provider of the Year title.
Special recognition was given to women shaping the tourism landscape. Annette Michael was honored for an incredible 33-year legacy of exemplary service and leadership. Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP, was celebrated for her outstanding contributions to workforce development, training, and tourism leadership.
In a poignant moment, a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to honor the enduring legacy of Mr. Alexandre de Brito e Cunha, remembered as a visionary leader and long-standing pillar of the ABHTA.
The association extended its deepest gratitude to all event partners and sponsors whose support was instrumental in creating an unforgettable night of reflection, celebration, and immense national pride.