Latest news with #EdmundBartlett
Travel Daily News
26-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
GTRCMC and Chemonics International join forces to strengthen tourism resilience
Chemonics and GTRCMC partner to strengthen global tourism resilience, advancing sustainability, crisis management, academic collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives worldwide. KINGSTON, JAMAICA – Global professional services firm Chemonics International and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), which has its headquarters in Jamaica, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the resilience of tourism destinations around the world. This collaboration brings together Chemonics' 50 years of sustainable development experience across 150 countries with GTRCMC's pioneering work in tourism resilience and crisis management. 'Tourism is a critical economic driver that supports millions of livelihoods, particularly for women, young people, and rural communities,' said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. 'Our partnership with Chemonics will strengthen the industry's foundation and ensure its sustainable growth despite global challenges,' he added. Tourism, the world's third-largest industry generating approximately $11.1 trillion and supporting nearly 348 million jobs globally, faces increasing challenges from climate change, economic volatility, and other crises. This collaboration addresses the urgent need to build more resilient tourism economies, particularly benefiting the small and medium-sized enterprises that dominate the sector. 'This partnership represents a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable tourism development,' said Chemonics President and CEO Jamey Butcher. 'By combining our global implementation expertise with GTRCMC's specialized knowledge in tourism resilience, we can make meaningful contributions to destinations' ability to withstand and recover from crises,' he noted. The MOU will focus on three key objectives: Enhancing global tourism resilience through practical solutions and strategies Promoting thought leadership through international fora and conferences Catalyzing academic collaborations to establish resilience Centres worldwide 'The GTRCMC stands ready to improve the responsiveness of tourism dependent countries and this collaboration with Chemonics will provide the necessary expertise to do so,' said Professor Lloyd Waller, Executive Director of the GTRCMC. The collaboration will include organizing international conferences, conducting joint research projects, and implementing capacity-building programmes for tourism stakeholders. These initiatives directly contribute to several United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by promoting inclusive economic growth, sustainable consumption, and environmental conservation.
Travel Daily News
12-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Tourism Enhancement Fund launches groundbreaking culinary programme
Tourism Enhancement Fund launches Sous Chef Development Programme in Jamaica, to upskill hospitality professionals and boost its culinary tourism appeal through international certification. MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA – In a bold step that signals a new chapter for Jamaica's tourism industry, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, officially launched the Sous Chef Development Programme on May 8 at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort. This pioneering initiative is being implemented by the Jamaica Centre for Tourism Innovation (JCTI), a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF). The 12-month programme, which commenced on May 5, brings together 25 sous chefs from six of Jamaica's leading hotel chains in an unprecedented show of collaboration. Designed to strengthen the island's culinary capacity, the initiative seeks to upskill tourism workers while enhancing the country's appeal as a global gastronomic destination. 'I am passionate about human capital development. That is why I have been in tourism so long – the people,' said Minister Bartlett. 'Nothing else defines my stewardship in tourism over the last 13 years more than the professionalisation of the sector – where our workers are equipped with stackable credentials that offer them mobility and portability.' The programme is being delivered through a strategic partnership involving the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, the American Culinary Federation, and HEART/NSTA Trust. Upon completion, participants will earn two internationally recognised qualifications: the ManageFirst Professional credential from the National Restaurant Association and the Certified Sous Chef designation from the American Culinary Federation. Participating hotels in this inaugural cohort include Princess Senses the Mangrove & Princess Grand Jamaica, Iberostar Resorts, Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Jewel Grande Montego Bay, Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa, and Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Rose Hall. Structured into quarterly modules, the programme blends rigorous theoretical coursework with immersive practical training. It was launched with SERV Safe Manager training and certification, facilitated by Dr. Shelly-Ann Whitely-Clarke and Professor Kevin Scott of Go Global Food. Over the course of the year, participants will rotate through specialised culinary areas including pastry, garde manger, hot kitchen, specialty cuisine, classic soups and sauces, and butchery. On the academic side, they will explore topics such as foodservice cost control, hospitality and restaurant management, human resources management, and the principles of food and beverage management. During her address, Dr. Whitely-Clarke stated that the aim of the programme is to prepare candidates to become better leaders and managers within the culinary operations of Jamaica's tourism sector. 'We want to better equip them to become our Executive Chefs – that's the overall aim of the programme,' she explained. She also noted that the ManageFirst Professional credential validates a strong foundation in restaurant and hospitality knowledge, while the Certified Sous Chef designation confirms that candidates have reached a recognised benchmark of culinary skill and experience. Dr. Carey Wallace, Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, addressed the participants and underscored the wider impact of their participation. 'Your responsibility is not just in your kitchen or hotel, but the entire region is looking at you. When you shine, you are lifting the entire Caribbean with you.' This landmark culinary initiative reflects TEF's enduring commitment to innovation, professional development, and excellence within Jamaica's thriving tourism industry.
Forbes
10-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Beyond The Parade: The Millennial Entrepreneurs Powering Jamaica's Carnival Economy
Jamaica Board Of Tourism Carnival season in the Caribbean is much more than a celebration of music, culture, and community—it's an economic powerhouse. The recent Carnival in Jamaica 2025 has shattered previous records, with the island recording its highest-ever visitor arrivals for the annual celebration. According to the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), preliminary data indicates that between April 22 and April 27, 8,571 visitors arrived in the country, marking a 15.5% increase over the same period in 2024. Total passenger arrivals surged to 16,958, representing a 20% year-over-year increase. These record-breaking numbers translate directly into economic opportunities for the region, especially for millennial entrepreneurs carving out a niche in costume design, event production, and hospitality services. As Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett told me, "Carnival has proven itself as a powerful economic driver, showcasing Jamaica beyond our beaches and reinforcing our vision to position the island as the Caribbean's premier destination for world-class cultural experiences." Costume designers like Lila Nikole are redefining what it means to build a business in the Caribbean during Carnival season. Nikole, who first entered the carnival space in 2018, has since created a multi-faceted business model that includes costume design, manufacturing, and event production for major bands across Trinidad, Jamaica, and Miami. "It went from nobody knowing who I was to suddenly being everywhere," she shares. "Carnival is this beautiful, vibrant experience, but it's also a business—a very lucrative one." Nikole's success is indicative of a broader trend: young Caribbean entrepreneurs are using Carnival as a launchpad for sustainable businesses. 'The entrepreneurial spirit of the young is being given exposure and opportunity for expression through initiatives like the Tourism Enhancement Fund, which supports innovation and startup development,' Minister Bartlett says. He also emphasized the critical role of the Tourism Innovation Incubator, which provides funding and resources for new business ventures tied to cultural tourism. The impact of Carnival in Jamaica extends far beyond the parade route. Preliminary projections suggest that Carnival in Jamaica 2025 will significantly surpass the J$4.42 billion (US $27.8 million) in direct economic impact recorded in 2024. The total economic contribution, including the multiplier effect, is expected to exceed J$95.4 billion (US $600 million). Minister Bartlett attributes this growth not only to increased tourism but also to the involvement of local entrepreneurs across various sectors—from costume makers to hospitality providers. Kamal Bankay, Chairman of the Tourism Enhancement Fund's Sports and Entertainment Network, highlighted that all three major bands saw growth, with approximately 11,000 revelers participating—matching projections of 10% growth over 2024. "This was our biggest year yet. Tourist participation was notably higher, with many first-time visitors flying in from across the globe to join the festivities," Bankay noted. This surge in tourism also opens doors for young entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. "One feather can cost $8 to $40, and a single costume can require hundreds," said Nikole. "People don't always understand the cost of goods and labor that goes into it, but the demand is there, and it's growing every year." She also points out that attendees begin paying for thie costumes nearly a year in advance through direct payment installments with vendors like her, or even by taking out micro-loans with banks. Jamaica's approach to integrating its cultural celebrations with entrepreneurial opportunities serves as a model for other Caribbean nations. Minister Bartlett emphasized the importance of building human capital, particularly among young people, to sustain this economic growth. "The essence of the Caribbean is in its people. It's all about our human capital and how we enable that to be converted into wealth," he says. As Carnival continues to evolve, its impact is expected to ripple across the Caribbean, providing not only unforgettable cultural experiences but also economic lifelines for local communities. With young entrepreneurs leading the charge, the future of Carnival in the Caribbean is poised for growth that is both vibrant and transformative. The evolution of Carnival in Jamaica showcases the transformative power of cultural tourism. Millennial entrepreneurs like Lila Nikole are not just participants—they are economic drivers, injecting vitality and innovation into the space. With government backing and strategic support from tourism-focused initiatives, the blueprint is clear: cultural celebration can be a formidable economic engine. As the Caribbean continues to innovate and grow, Carnival stands as a shining example of how tradition and entrepreneurship can dance in unison, driving prosperity across the diaspora.
Travel Daily News
08-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Jamaica to review visa facilitation for GCC visitors
Jamaica plans visa facilitation review to boost GCC tourism, tapping into high-spending, long-stay visitors and diversifying source markets. KINGSTON, JAMAICA – In a bid to attract more visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has said plans are in train to review visa facilitation. Speaking at a recent press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Minister emphasised the untapped potential of GCC visitors, citing their increasing interest in Caribbean experiences, higher-than-average spending patterns, and tendency toward longer stays. The review will focus on simplifying visa application processes for visitors from the region. 'I have been in discussion with our Ministers of National Security and Foreign Affairs to look at more seamless ways for visa facilitation as we recognise the significant economicpotential of visitors from the GCC region,' said the Minister during the announcement at a press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. 'By removing unnecessary barriers to travel, we are sending a clear message that our country welcomes GCC visitors with open arms.' Currently, visitors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can get a visa on arrival, but changes to this arrangement could increase the numbers from the GCC and generate substantial revenue for Jamaica's tourism sector. 'The GCC is the new frontier for Jamaica as we seek to diversify our source markets. Simplifying this visa arrangement will make it easier for their visitors to seriously consider Jamaica as a vacation option and allow us to tap into this lucrative market,' added Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. Jamaica saw a 29% increase in visitor arrivals from the GCC in 2024. The UAE led with a 37.3% year-on-year growth, followed by strong performances from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. 'We are already seeing an uptick in interest from the region, and we are working assiduously with our tour operators and other partners to provide various packages and experiences for visitors from the region,' said Donovan White, Director of Tourism. Minister Bartlett led a small delegation at Arabian Travel Market being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1. It is one of the leading global travel and tourism events, bringing together industry professionals and government representatives from across the world.
Tourism Breaking News
28-04-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Jamaica reinforces GCC commitment at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 with top tier partners and tailored offerings
Post Views: 123 The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) will be participating in the upcoming Arabian Travel Market 2025 from April 28 to May 01 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Its continued presence in the region's premier travel and trade event demonstrates the recognition of GCCs role in Jamaica's international tourism growth strategy. In a collaborative push to promote the island, Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett will be joined by Director of Tourism Donovan White, together with Jamaica's top suppliers in the hospitality and leisure sectors at the JTB stand, ready to network with travel and media professionals from across the GCC. Diversifying tourism markets and promoting sustainable growth is a key component of Jamaica's Vision 2023 development plan. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. 'Our ongoing participation in ATM reflects our dedication to fostering relationships within the GCC market,' stated Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism. 'We are confident that Jamaica's unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture will captivate travelers from this region.' In driving the achievement of this strategy, JTB has appointed Buzz Travel Marketing Middle East (BTM) as its official trade representative office for the GCC region in 2024. This regional partnership leverages the strength of BTM in the travel and trade industry educating them about Jamaica's diverse offerings – from pristine beaches to cultural experiences – and how it fully aligns with the preferences of GCC travelers who are seeking both luxury and adventure. 'We are dedicated to showcasing Jamaica's diverse attractions to the Middle Eastern market,' said Donovan White, Director of Tourism. 'Our partnerships in the region are instrumental in facilitating growth and ensuring that travelers from the GCC have memorable experiences in Jamaica.' Travelers from the GCC can access Jamaica through various connections via major international hubs such as London, Miami, New York, and Toronto with numerous connectivity options from major carriers in GCC. JTB invites all attendees of the Arabian Travel Market 2025 to visit its pavilion to connect, explore potential collaborations, and discover one of the gems of the Caribbean.
