Immaculate Conception Catholic School Triumphs at the 2025 St. Kitts Tourism Youth Congress

The 2025 St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority Tourism Youth Congress, held in St. Kitts on May 16th at the Royal Saint Kitts Hotel, provided a platform for six talented secondary school students to present their innovative ideas on bolstering the region’s tourism sector. This prestigious event serves as a critical stepping stone for young minds to engage with the intricacies of the tourism industry, offering fresh perspectives and fostering future leaders in the field. The Congress underscores the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism and highlights the commitment of St. Kitts and Nevis to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals. Mary Shelford of the Immaculate Conception Catholic School emerged victorious, earning the title of 2025 Junior Minister of Tourism and the opportunity to represent St. Kitts at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Regional Tourism Youth Congress.

Mary Shelford’s winning presentation captivated the judges with its insightful analysis of the current tourism landscape and forward-thinking proposals for enhancing the visitor experience. Her comprehensive understanding of the industry, combined with her eloquent delivery, showcased her potential as a future leader in Caribbean tourism. The competition was fierce, with Camira Williams of Verchild’s High School and Ornique Finch of Saddler’s Secondary School securing the first and second runner-up positions, respectively. Each participant demonstrated a remarkable grasp of the challenges and opportunities facing the tourism sector, presenting well-researched and thoughtfully crafted proposals.

Ornique Finch, in addition to her second runner-up placement, also earned the accolade of Best Presenter, further highlighting her exceptional communication skills and stage presence. Her ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and confidence impressed the judges and solidified her position as a rising star in the field. The Basseterre High School, while not securing an individual title, received the School Spirit Award, recognizing the collective enthusiasm and support demonstrated by the school community. This award emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for students to thrive and contribute to their school’s success.

The St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority Tourism Youth Congress plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism in St. Kitts and Nevis. By providing a platform for young people to engage with industry leaders, share their ideas, and develop their presentation skills, the Congress cultivates a new generation of tourism professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of this vital sector. The event underscores the importance of investing in youth development and recognizing their potential to contribute meaningfully to the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry. The success of the 2025 Congress further solidifies St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to fostering innovation and leadership within the tourism sector.

The participation of these six students represents a promising future for Caribbean tourism, with each individual demonstrating a keen understanding of the industry and a passion for its continued growth. The Congress serves as a testament to the dedication of educators, industry professionals, and government officials in nurturing the talents of young people and equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. The event not only celebrates the achievements of these exceptional students but also underscores the collective responsibility of stakeholders to invest in the future of tourism and empower the next generation of industry leaders.

The success of the 2025 St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority Tourism Youth Congress reflects the collaborative efforts of numerous individuals and organizations committed to fostering youth development within the tourism sector. From the dedicated teachers who mentored the participants to the industry professionals who served as judges, the collective effort underscores the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for their growth. The Congress serves as a powerful reminder of the potential of youth to contribute meaningfully to the tourism industry and shape its future trajectory. The event’s resounding success serves as an inspiration for continued investment in youth development and the creation of platforms for their voices to be heard within the Caribbean tourism landscape.