MPE CARIBBEAN REPORT NEWSLETTER – March 2, 2026
March 2, 2026
Happy Women’s History Month
Across the Caribbean and beyond, women have fought for freedom, championed culture and redefined leadership. During Women’s History Month we gratefully reflect on the countless ways they have contributed to progress in every field.
We honor the freedom fighters who stood against colonial rule, the heads of state who navigated their nations through global shifts, and the visionary diplomats advocating for climate justice on the world stage.
From entertainers who have turned Caribbean rhythms into a universal language to the pioneering educators and scientists shaping the next generation, their influence is woven into the fabric of our history.
This month, we honor their legacy and celebrate the women continuing to break new ground.
Bravo, Martinique! Silver success at Adrian Awards
Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Americas for the Martinique Tourism Authority (left) and Lea Tonnoir, Marketing and Communication Assistant, celebrate at the Adrian Awards in New York last month.
| The Martinique Tourism Authority has earned a Silver Adrian Award in the Special Event category at the 69th annual Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Adrian Awards for its flagship cultural activation, “Martinique Gourmande: A Recipe for Cultural Exchange & Record-Breaking Engagement.” The awards ceremony took place Feb. 18 in New York City. The HSMAI Adrian Awards are the premier global competition celebrating excellence, creativity and innovation in travel and hospitality marketing with a history of nearly seven decades. This year’s awards are focused on “The Exceptional Experience,” recognizing standout campaigns across paid, earned, owned and integrated media. |
Von Martin honored for elevating Caribbean voices in the diaspora
Click HERE for the Video
Vonulrick “Von” Martin, a pioneering broadcaster, producer and cultural ambassador who has amplified Caribbean music, identity and storytelling in the Diaspora for nearly five decades was honored at the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards in Miami in December.
Born in Trinidad and Tobago and one of the early voices of WPFW 89.3 FM, Martin has devoted his life to preserving and promoting Caribbean heritage through radio, authorship and cultural projects including work with the Smithsonian Institution.
Though unable to attend, he shared a moving message, reminding patrons that while the award may bear his name, it belongs to the community that journeyed with him. He urged the next generation to “use your voice to tell our stories.”
The award was accepted on his behalf by Erica Williams Connell, daughter of the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr. Eric Williams.
In case you missed it
Caribbean tourism remained firmly in the global spotlight this past week as the region advanced critical conversation and concrete action across air connectivity, cruise strategy, resilience and cultural sustainability. A high-level agreement was signed, bold policy perspectives were shared and a thought leader was announced for an upcoming milestone event — underscoring the Caribbean’s proactive approach to strengthening competitiveness and long-term growth.
Below are the latest developments featured across the Caribbean Tourism Authority website and social media channels.
Click headlines below for more.
Caribbean tourism moves on two fronts – Europe and the Americas
After a successful Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda, Caribbean tourism executives are splitting their teams for two landmark global industry events taking place simultaneously this week.
An extensive and diverse program awaits participants at ITB Berlin Convention 2026, scheduled for March 3-5 as part of ITB Berlin. Under the forward-looking theme “Leading Tourism into Balance,” speakers will explore the most pressing trends and issues shaping the global travel landscape. This year marks a special milestone as ITB Berlin celebrates its 60th anniversary.
Meanwhile, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Routes Americas 2026 will convene senior industry professionals from airlines, airports and destinations. The leading air service development forum provides an efficient platform to build high-value relationships with key decision-makers from across the Americas and beyond.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization, along with several of its member states, will maintain a strong presence at both events, reinforcing the region’s commitment to expanding market access, strengthening air connectivity and advancing sustainable tourism growth.
Quotable Caribbean
“We respect the sovereign right of CARICOM members with respect to your choice for national security for your nation and respect to your choice for foreign policy. We respect that sovereignty … and we expect no less from others.” — Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister, Trinidad and Tobago
Medical Moment
World Birth Defects Day will be observed on March 3, 2026, under the theme “Many Birth Defects, One Voice,” to raise awareness and strengthen support for individuals and families affected by congenital anomalies.
Approximately 15 million births occur annually in the Americas including 10 million in Latin America and the Caribbean. Congenital anomalies are a leading cause of neonatal death and long-term disability, highlighting the need for improved prevention, surveillance and care.
Recent public health threats, including the Zika virus and emerging evidence of Oropouche virus transmission during pregnancy, have exposed gaps in surveillance systems. In response, the Pan American Health Organization launched a regional Birth Defects Repository during 2025 to strengthen monitoring and improve outcomes.
World Birth Defects Day also aims to mobilize action and resources to enhance research, prevention and care for all affected individuals.
Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.
