Celebrating Caribbean American excellence

This June, we proudly salute the incredible members of the Caribbean diaspora whose vibrant culture, hard work, and unwavering spirit continue to enrich communities across the United States and around the world. 

From trailblazers in business and the arts to leaders in public service, health care, education and beyond, Caribbean Americans have made — and continue to make — remarkable contributions that uplift and inspire. 

We celebrate our legacy, our passion, and the unique heritage that connects us all. 

Thank you for everything you do to keep the Caribbean spirit shining bright!

Caribbean Week opens in Manhattan

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is bringing the region’s warmth and vibrancy to the Big Apple as Caribbean Week in New York (CWNY) kicks off today.

Under the theme “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism,”the week will convene global tourism leaders, media influencers and cultural icons for a dynamic lineup of high-impact forums. Highlights include the launch of the CTO Reimagine Plan, thought-provoking sessions on artificial intelligence, cruise and airline connectivity, the Orange Economy, and a youth innovation competition. 

Among the featured speakers are regional tourism leaders such as CTO Chairman, Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill of Barbados; Minister Edmund Bartlett of Jamaica; Minister Owen Darrell of Bermuda; Minister Cardigan Connor of Anguilla; Commissioner Joseph Boschulte of the U.S. Virgin Islands; Director Marva Williams of Dominica; Director General Latia Duncombe of The Bahamas; CTO Chairman of the Board of Directors, CEO Andrea Franklin of Barbados; CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper; alongside international media voices and strong private sector representation.

Adding rhythm and color to the business-focused agenda is the debut of the Caribbean Cultural Showcase, taking place on Thursday at The Westin New York at Times Square.

Headliners include Dominica’s Bouyon sensation Asa Bantan and international jazz soprano Marie-Claire Giraud; St. Lucia’s high-energy soca performers Motto and Teddyson John; and Saint-Martin’s soulful vocalist Kenyo Baly.

This immersive evening, supported by TEMPO Networks, will celebrate the Caribbean’s music, cuisine, visual arts and fashion, featuring Grenada’s traditional Jab Jab and ShortKnee performers, and a vibrant Jamaican fashion showcase.

CWNY 2025 is made possible through the generous support of numerous sponsors, including Dominica, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and TEMPO Networks, whose 20th anniversary adds a festive dimension to a week poised to reaffirm the Caribbean’s cultural and economic impact on the global stage.

For more information, visit caribbeanweek.com.

Anguilla appoints new Director of Tourism

Jameel Rochester

Anguilla has welcomed a new Director of Tourism. Jameel Rochester, who succeeds Stacey Liburd, brings a wealth of cross-sector leadership and strategic insight to the role.

Rochester previously served as Assistant Rooms Division Manager at Wymara Resort and Villas in Turks and Caicos, following his tenure as General Secretary (CEO) of the Anguilla Football Association. His extensive private-sector experience includes senior roles at prestigious properties such as Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts; Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla; and Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel. He also held positions in the financial services sector at the National Bank of Anguilla Ltd. and CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank.

This marks Rochester’s second tenure at the Anguilla Tourist Board, having previously led destination experience initiatives and served in interim roles as Acting Manager of Corporate Affairs and Acting Marketing Officer.

He holds an MSc in International Hospitality Management from Les Roches University, an MSc in General Management Studies (with Distinction), a BSc in General Management Studies from the University of the West Indies, and a Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Rochester’s blend of academic achievement and hands-on industry experience positions him to lead with innovation, sustainability and a strong focus on stakeholder engagement — further strengthening Anguilla’s tourism development.

Cayman’s Deputy Premier swiftly engages tourism sector

 Gary Rutty, Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, Cayman Islands

In a series of strategic engagements aimed at strengthening collaboration within the tourism sector, newly installed Deputy Premier of the Cayman Islands and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, Gary Rutty, has been meeting with key industry stakeholders to better understand the challenges and opportunities shaping the Cayman Islands visitor economy.

Last month, Minister Rutty and his tourism team met with board members from the Caymanian Land and Sea Cooperative Society and CJ Moore of MooreMarine Group to engage in open dialogue on the day-to-day realities of the tourism experience. 

He also connected with executives of Captain Marvin’s, the Cayman Islands’ longest standing watersports operator, to gain firsthand insights into the evolving landscape of maritime tourism.

Minister Rutty, alongside Michael Myles, Minister for Caymanian Employment and Immigration, also held discussions with accommodation partners across Grand Cayman, including general managers of The Ritz-Carlton, Westin, Hampton by Hilton, and Grand Cayman Marriott, as well as the owners of Paradise Pointe Rentals. 

These visits underscored government’s commitment to supporting the tourism workforce and ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the Cayman Islands as a premier destination.

Quotable Caribbean

“TEMPO has emerged as the ultimate platform for the entire Caribbean experience. Caribbean people have a passion for living which shines through everything they do and its destinations attract millions of visitors to its shores annually. TEMPO seeks to be a bridge, a gateway, to this culturally rich and trendsetting region we are privileged to call home.” – Frederick A. Morton, Jr., Esq., Founder, Chairman & CEO, TEMPO Networks

“De sea ain’t got nuh back door.” (Barbados)
This Bajan proverb is often used figuratively to caution someone against entering a situation that may appear manageable or enticing at first but could quickly become overwhelming — with no easy way to back out or reverse the decision.
If someone is considering a risky move without fully understanding the consequences, an elder might say, “Remember, de sea ain’t got nuh back door,” meaning: “Be careful — you might not be able to get out once you’re in.”
It reminds us to think carefully before diving in — whether into deep waters or life’s complex decisions.

Medical Moment

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed on June 15, shines a light on a growing yet often hidden crisis.

As the global population of older adults rises, so too does the risk of elder abuse, which can take many forms — including physical, emotional, sexual and financial harm, as well as neglect.

Communities and the media play a vital role in raising awareness, recognizing the warning signs, and encouraging action to prevent and address elder abuse wherever it occurs.

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