标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Arbor Day, observed internationally on November 16, stands as a powerful reminder of the critical role trees play in environmental sustainability and humanity’s duty to protect the planet. Communities worldwide commemorate this day by planting trees, revitalizing green spaces, and raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity. While the date may vary across countries, the core mission remains consistent: fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient Earth.

The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Rising Star of the Year and Young Hotelier of the Year awards, set to be presented at the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards. These accolades aim to honor the next generation of leaders in the hospitality industry, celebrating their dedication and professionalism in enhancing service standards nationwide.

This year’s nominees hail from some of the country’s most renowned establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, and Trade Winds Hotel. According to the ABHTA, these individuals embody the passion and excellence that drive Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector forward, contributing to elevated guest experiences and fostering industry-wide innovation.

The winners will be revealed on November 29, 2025, during the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua under the theme “Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine.” The event is a collaborative effort between the ABHTA, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), highlighting the collective commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the hospitality industry.

Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry is gearing up for a grand celebration of excellence as the nominees for the 2025 Tourism Awards have been unveiled. The prestigious event, organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), is scheduled for November 29, 2025, at the luxurious Sandals Grande Antigua. Titled ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ the ceremony aims to honor the remarkable contributions of tourism professionals across the nation. Key categories include ‘Employee of the Year’ and ‘Supervisor of the Year,’ spotlighting individuals who have exhibited exceptional dedication, skill, and enthusiasm in their roles. The nominees hail from some of Antigua’s most renowned hospitality establishments, such as Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Siboney Beach Club, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, Trade Winds Hotel, and The Escape at Nonsuch Bay. The ABHTA emphasized that the awards are a tribute to the individuals who propel the success of the country’s leading industry and foster a culture of excellence. The winners will be announced during the gala, marking a significant milestone in the tourism calendar and a moment to reflect on the resilience and growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector.

Clare Browne, the Director of Education in Antigua and Barbuda, has passionately appealed to students, parents, and educators to actively support the upcoming 2025 OECS Student Census. Describing it as a pivotal initiative, Browne emphasized that the census transcends mere data collection, aiming instead to provide profound insights into how students ‘learn, live, and thrive’ within their educational environments. He highlighted that the findings will inform policy decisions focused on equity, quality, and inclusivity, ensuring the education system evolves to meet the diverse needs of students. The census, conducted by trained enumerators, guarantees a straightforward, confidential, and respectful process for all participants. Browne urged students to participate confidently and called on parents and educators to offer their unwavering support. ‘Together, we are shaping an education system that truly listens — one that responds to the needs, dreams, and voices of every child across the OECS,’ he stated. This initiative marks a significant step toward regional educational enhancement.

The Ministry of Works in Antigua and Barbuda has reported significant progress in its nationwide infrastructure development initiatives during October. Over 36,000 cubic feet of concrete were produced last month, facilitating the ongoing rehabilitation of roads, curbs, and drainage systems across multiple communities. In a recent update, the Ministry revealed that its concrete plant generated 36,585 cubic feet of poured concrete, enabling construction teams to accelerate their efforts in various districts. Preparations are also underway for the much-anticipated restoration of All Saints Road, a critical artery in the country. This project is being carefully coordinated with APUA’s national repiping initiative to ensure alignment and minimize disruptions to the public. A comprehensive update on the All Saints Road restoration is expected after next week’s Cabinet meeting. The Ministry expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the nation’s infrastructure. “The best is yet to come,” the statement concluded, signaling optimism for future developments.

The Caribbean Sustainable Infrastructure Conference (CSIC 2025), held from November 3–5, marked a pivotal moment for the Caribbean region as governments, private sector leaders, and development partners converged to forge a transformative path toward sustainable development. Hosted by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in collaboration with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Agence française de développement (AFD), and funded by the European Union, the conference emphasized the critical role of resilient infrastructure in fostering economic competitiveness, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship.