St. Kitts Showcases Leadership and Cultural Heritage at Caribbean Week 2025

St. Kitts commanded attention at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) Caribbean Week 2025, held in New York City, showcasing its leadership, cultural richness, and growing influence within the Caribbean tourism sector. The week-long event, held from June 1st to 6th, served as a platform for St. Kitts to engage with industry leaders, media professionals, and cultural stakeholders, solidifying its position as a key player in the region’s tourism landscape. The delegation from St. Kitts, led by Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and International Transport, actively participated in high-level forums, workshops, and networking events, emphasizing the island’s dedication to collaborative growth and innovation within the Caribbean tourism industry. The successful participation underscored St. Kitts’ commitment to shaping the future of tourism in the region through partnerships, forward-thinking initiatives, and inclusive growth strategies.

A highlight of Caribbean Week was the recognition of Minister Henderson’s outstanding contributions to the tourism sector. She was awarded the prestigious 2025 Minister of Tourism Award at the inaugural Caribbean Women’s Leadership Awards. This accolade, presented by CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper, acknowledges Minister Henderson’s visionary leadership, dedication to sustainable tourism development, and the transformative impact her policies have had on St. Kitts’ tourism industry. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting the island as a premier destination and driving sustainable growth within the sector.

The official media launch of Sugar Mas 2025, the St. Kitts-Nevis National Carnival, further amplified the island’s presence at Caribbean Week. The event, a joint effort between the St. Kitts Tourism Authority and the St. Kitts-Nevis National Carnival Committee, brought the vibrant energy of the carnival to New York City. Over 40 travel writers, agents, and digital influencers attended the launch, experiencing the music, costumes, culinary offerings, and a preview of the Sugar Mas 2025 calendar. This immersive experience aimed to generate excitement and interest in St. Kitts’ largest cultural festival, further positioning the island as a vibrant and engaging destination.

Minister Henderson’s active participation extended to educational programming, where she delivered opening remarks at a session titled “The Orange Economy: Unlocking the Power of Creativity.” This session explored how Caribbean destinations can leverage their cultural and creative industries to enhance tourism offerings. Discussions focused on monetizing creative assets, supporting local artisans, and enriching visitor experiences through cultural heritage. This participation highlighted St. Kitts’ focus on integrating cultural experiences into its tourism strategy, recognizing the value of the creative economy in attracting visitors and fostering sustainable development.

Throughout Caribbean Week, St. Kitts engaged in a series of forums, interactive workshops, and strategic networking events, further cementing its presence within the Caribbean tourism community. These engagements provided opportunities to connect with tourism executives, cultural stakeholders, and media professionals, reinforcing St. Kitts’ commitment to collaborative growth and innovative strategies within the industry. The week’s activities served as a testament to St. Kitts’ dedication to shaping the future of Caribbean tourism through partnerships, forward-thinking initiatives, and inclusive growth.

The successful participation of St. Kitts in Caribbean Week 2025 signifies the island’s growing prominence within the region’s tourism sector. From the recognition of Minister Henderson’s leadership to the vibrant showcase of Sugar Mas, the island’s presence was felt throughout the event. St. Kitts’ commitment to sustainable tourism development, cultural preservation, and collaborative growth positions it as a leading force in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism. The week’s activities served as a powerful platform to promote the island’s unique offerings, engage with key stakeholders, and reinforce its dedication to enriching the visitor experience through cultural immersion and sustainable practices.