September 1, 2025

Celebrating Caribbean contributions on Labor Day

Labor Day honors the tireless contributions of workers across the United States and the Caribbean Diaspora. Caribbean people, in particular, have long played a vital role in shaping this nation — driving the economy forward, enriching industries with their intellect, and strengthening organizations across every sector. Their dedication is felt not only on the mainland but also in the region, as their labor, remittances, investments and tourism dollars contribute meaningfully to the development of Caribbean economies and communities. As we mark this special day, we salute the resilience and spirit of workers everywhere.

In the spirit of the holiday, millions will gather in Brooklyn today for the West Indian American Day Carnival Parade. This vibrant celebration of Caribbean unity, culture and love is a powerful reminder of the bonds that connect our communities. To all workers, celebrants and masqueraders on Eastern Parkway — Happy Labor Day and thank you for your enduring contributions.

CMEx Laureate Spotlight: Dave Chang, Carnival Cruise Line

This week, we begin a series highlighting our CMEx laureates, who will be recognized on Sunday, December 7, in Miami at Loews Coral Gables Hotel. 

We start with Dave Chang, Carnival Cruise Line’s Senior Vice President of Consumer Sales and Contact Centers, who leads more than 1,800 sales and service professionals driving revenue and customer support for the world’s largest cruise line.

Chang, a 33-year cruise industry veteran and one of Carnival’s most senior sales executives, is known for his “People First” mantra, recognizing that employee engagement is key to success. His leadership has fueled consistent revenue growth, helping Carnival become the most popular cruise line in North America.

A native of Jamaica, Chang began his career at Renaissance Cruises before joining Carnival in 2001 as a sales manager. Over the past two decades, he has advanced through roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in his current position. Though he has sold countless vacations, he is most proud of the lives he has positively impacted with his team philosophy: “Simply treat others how you would like to be treated and watch them thrive.”

After moving with his family to South Florida at age 16, Chang worked while pursuing his education, later earning a B.A. in business management and completing Columbia University’s Advanced Management Program. He remains committed to giving back, supporting charities and sponsoring students at his alma mater, York Castle High School in Jamaica, where he also mentors and speaks to future tourism leaders.

The CMEx Awards is sponsored by Carnival Corporation & plc, Chukka Caribbean Adventures, and Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board.

Proceeds will support educational initiatives that empower Caribbean youth and tourism professionals.

For tickets and details, visit cmexmedia.org.

Nevis appoints new tourism chief

Andia Ravariere

Andia Ravariere has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA), effective today.

Ravariere brings more than a decade of experience in sustainable tourism development and destination marketing across the Caribbean. 

For seven years she served with the Ministry of Tourism in Anguilla, where she played a key role in driving the island’s tourism rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic. Most recently, she served as Destination Marketing Manager for the Discover Dominica Authority, where she led initiatives that boosted visitor arrivals and expanded the island’s presence in niche markets.

“My vision is to position Nevis at the forefront of Caribbean tourism by strategically redefining luxury through nature, culture, sustainability and innovation,” she stated.

Photo Flashback: Zhivargo Laing in Miami

Flashback to 2019: At the CMEx Leadership Awards and Fundraiser held at JW Marriott Marquis in Miami, Zhivargo Laing — former Bahamas Minister of Finance and now a leading radio host in The Bahamas — delivered an inspiring address that energized the evening’s celebration of Caribbean excellence.

Quotable Caribbean

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve the people and the movement, and to stand shoulder to shoulder with comrades whose faith in justice and progress matches my own. I remain deeply proud of what we built together — the lives we touched, the barriers we broke, and the foundation we laid, brick by brick, person by person. As I take my leave from the frontlines of political life, I do so with a heart overflowing with gratitude. These years have tested and affirmed me; they have deepened my convictions and strengthened my spirit. They will forever stand among the most meaningful of my life.” — Lisa Hanna, outgoing Member of Parliament, Jamaica | Miss World 1993

Photo: facebook.com/MPLisaHanna

Tink Bout It

“I propose a demand-driven strategy for implementing freedom of movement. Let data, not emotion, guide us. Where there are labor gaps — digital tech, agriculture, renewable energy, construction — let us proactively recruit CARICOM talent to fill them. Let us pair this with streamlined work-permit verification, support services, and clear integration policies. The goal is mutual benefit: Barbadians must feel the system is fair and purposeful; our CARICOM neighbors must be welcomed with dignity and opportunity. It is not about restricting movement, but directing it where it is needed most.” — Dr. Basil Springer, Director, Marketplace Excellence

Medical Moment

September marks Healthy Aging Month, an ideal time to embrace growing older with vitality, curiosity and purpose. This year’s theme, “Never Too Late to Reinvent Yourself”, underscores that reinvention is always within reach — from embarking on a different career journey to cultivating new habits or embracing opportunities for self-discovery.

Even small lifestyle choices — like starting a daily walk, picking up a creative hobby, making more time for friends or spending time in the garden — can bring meaningful improvements to your health and happiness.

You don’t need sweeping changes to see results. Try gentle exercises such as yoga or stretching, add more nutrient-rich foods to your meals, or join a local group to strengthen your sense of community.

Staying on top of regular check-ups is another powerful way to protect your well-being. Throughout the month, consider sharing your wellness practices online with hashtags like #HealthyAging or #AgingWell — your story may inspire someone else to live life with energy and joy.

Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.