Marsha T. Henderson Awarded Minister of Tourism Award at the 2025 Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards

The Caribbean tourism industry witnessed a momentous occasion during Caribbean Week in New York with the inaugural Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards. 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, bestowed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and its Secretary-General, Dona Regis-Prosper, recognizes Minister Henderson’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism development, and transformative impact on St. Kitts’ burgeoning tourism sector. The award further underscores the growing recognition of women’s pivotal role in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism and celebrates their significant contributions to the industry.

Minister Henderson’s selection for this esteemed award reflects her peers’ acknowledgment of her outstanding leadership qualities, innovative approach to destination marketing, and dedication to enhancing the Caribbean’s global tourism presence. Her tenure has witnessed significant progress in St. Kitts’ tourism sector, including enhanced airlift capacity, strengthened community engagement, and the development of unique experiential tourism offerings. These advancements have solidified St. Kitts’ position as a premier destination for travelers seeking authentic Caribbean experiences, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

The Minister’s leadership has been instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared widely across the community while preserving the island’s natural environment for future generations. Her focus on community engagement has fostered a sense of ownership and pride among local stakeholders, empowering them to actively participate in the tourism sector and contribute to its continued growth. This collaborative approach has not only strengthened the tourism industry but also enhanced the overall well-being of the St. Kitts community.

The award ceremony also served as the launchpad for the CTO’s new publication, From the Sea Suite magazine. This platform is dedicated to highlighting the achievements and contributions of women leaders in Caribbean tourism, providing a valuable space for sharing their stories, insights, and experiences. The magazine’s launch further emphasizes the CTO’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women within the tourism industry. It aims to inspire future generations of women leaders and provide a platform for networking and collaboration.

Minister Henderson’s award is not merely a personal accomplishment but a testament to the collaborative efforts of all tourism stakeholders in St. Kitts. Her leadership has fostered a synergistic environment where public and private sector partners work together to achieve common goals. This collaborative spirit has been crucial in driving the growth and success of the tourism sector, creating economic opportunities and enhancing the overall quality of life for the people of St. Kitts. The award underscores the importance of collective action and shared responsibility in achieving sustainable and inclusive tourism development.

The Minister’s recognition at the Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards is a significant milestone, not only for St. Kitts but also for the entire Caribbean region. It highlights the increasing prominence of women in leadership roles within the tourism industry and underscores their crucial contributions to its development. The award serves as an inspiration to aspiring women leaders and reinforces the importance of gender equality and inclusivity in shaping a more prosperous and sustainable future for Caribbean tourism. It further emphasizes the potential of tourism to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the social and cultural fabric of the region.