Marsha T. Henderson Awarded Minister of Tourism Award at Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards Ceremony

The Caribbean tourism industry recently celebrated a milestone achievement with the inaugural Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards, held during Caribbean Week in New York. Among the distinguished honorees was the Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and International Transport for St. Kitts, who received the prestigious 2025 Minister of Tourism Award. This accolade, presented by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) and its Secretary-General, Dona Regis-Prosper, recognizes Minister Henderson’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism development, and transformative contributions to the burgeoning tourism sector of St. Kitts.

Minister Henderson’s selection for this esteemed award, by her fellow Ministers across the Caribbean region, underscores her exemplary leadership, innovative approach to destination marketing, and dedication to enhancing the Caribbean’s prominence on the global tourism stage. Her tenure has witnessed significant strides in St. Kitts’ tourism sector, including increased airlift capacity, enhanced community engagement, and the development of enriching experiential tourism offerings. These achievements have solidified St. Kitts’ position as a premier destination for authentic Caribbean travel experiences.

The Minister’s visionary leadership has not only propelled St. Kitts’ tourism industry forward but has also served as an inspiration for women in leadership roles throughout the Caribbean. Her focus on inclusive growth, fostering resilience within the sector, and creating opportunities through tourism has earned her widespread recognition and respect. This award serves as a testament to her dedication and the positive impact she has made on the island’s economy and its people.

Minister Henderson expressed her gratitude for the award, acknowledging the collective efforts of St. Kitts’ tourism stakeholders in achieving this milestone. She emphasized her ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive growth, resilience, and opportunities within the tourism sector. Her leadership philosophy underscores the importance of collaboration and shared vision in driving sustainable development and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the tourism industry.

The awards ceremony also marked the official launch of the CTO’s “From the Sea Suite” magazine, a new platform dedicated to showcasing female leadership within Caribbean tourism. This publication serves as a powerful tool to highlight the achievements and contributions of women shaping the future of the industry, further amplifying their voices and inspiring the next generation of female leaders.

The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and International Transport extended heartfelt congratulations to Minister Henderson on this significant accomplishment, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women and advancing the tourism sector across the region. This award not only celebrates individual achievement but also symbolizes the growing recognition of women’s vital role in the Caribbean’s tourism industry and their contribution to its continued growth and success. It further emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment that supports and celebrates female leadership within the sector.