Grenada’s key tourism industry body has wrapped up a landmark youth outreach initiative, closing out a seven-day immersive program that opened the door to local secondary school students to explore the island’s thriving tourism sector, its commitment to sustainable operations, and the wide range of long-term career opportunities available within it.
Organized by the Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association (GHTA), the Discover Hospitality Camp welcomed 22 third- and fourth-form students from schools across the country. Designed as a practical, hands-on learning experience rather than a traditional classroom program, the initiative gave young participants direct access to every corner of Grenada’s $tourism and hospitality economy, blending interactive training, on-site industry exposure and one-on-one mentorship from seasoned professionals.
Throughout the week, students took part in a packed schedule of activities tailored to build both hard and soft skills. They joined targeted skill-building workshops focused on guest experience management and food and beverage operations, toured leading local hotels and popular tourist attractions to see daily industry operations firsthand, and participated in hands-on activities focused on sustainable hospitality and marine conservation. Each participant also had the opportunity to connect with and learn from industry veterans who provided guidance on career trajectories and professional growth.
The official closing ceremony brought together a range of stakeholders to celebrate the program’s success. Remarks were delivered by Leslie Ann Johnson, Communications Director of Grenada’s Ministry of Tourism, Mandoo Seales, GHTA Director and co-founder of the Grenada Green Group, youth ambassador Ella-Rose Charles, and other special invited guests. GHTA Hospitality Ambassador Ethan Edwards delivered the formal vote of thanks to attendees, organizers and partners.
Arlene Friday, Chief Executive Officer of GHTA, emphasized the transformative impact of the initiative in her comments. “Watching our young people engage with such enthusiasm for both hospitality and sustainable stewardship has been incredibly inspiring,” Friday said. “This camp confirms what we have long understood: investing in hands-on education and real-world experience doesn’t just strengthen the future of our industry—it also reinforces our commitment to protecting our beaches, coastlines and local communities. By the end of the week, every participant left with new practical skills, expanded professional networks, and a much clearer picture of the diverse career pathways that tourism has to offer.”
Ella-Rose Charles, the youth ambassador who supported the planning and execution of camp activities, shared her own perspective on the program’s value. “This week opened my eyes to just how exciting and varied careers in tourism can be—everything from protecting our natural coastal ecosystems to welcoming visitors from all corners of the globe,” Charles said. “I’m incredibly proud to have been part of an initiative that empowers young Grenadians to care for our island and pursue meaningful, rewarding careers right here at home.”
GHTA extended formal gratitude to the wide network of partners that made the camp possible, including major industry players Sandals Resorts, La Luna Hotel, True Blue Bay Resort and Point Salines Hotel, as well as public and community collaborators: the Solid Waste Management Agency, T’s Eco Farms, TAMCC, NEWLO, and St George’s University. The association also recognized the hard work and dedication of the Hospitality Camp Committee, chaperones, volunteers and in-house GHTA staff who contributed to the program’s success.
The Discover Hospitality Camp was fully funded through the GHTA Tourism Enhancement Fund. Looking ahead, GHTA has confirmed it will continue expanding investments in youth development programs that strengthen Grenada’s tourism workforce and embed a culture of long-term environmental stewardship across the sector.