Miami, November 19, 2024 – During the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) 2024, hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) at the Kovens Convention Center in Miami, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, located in Aruba, was awarded the prestigious 2024 CHIEF Award for People Development and Support.

The resort, renowned for its people-first approach, stood out for its innovative initiatives to empower its team. These include the use of artificial intelligence to optimize staff work, comprehensive healthcare programs with gender-specific preventive care, childcare subsidies, and wellness programs. This management model fosters an environment where both employees and guests can thrive.

The awards ceremony featured notable figures, including Alina Sosa Cerullo, Business Development Manager at COHO Reservations; Crescenzia Biemans, Chief Commercial Officer of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort; Sanovnik Destang, President of the CHTA and Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts; and Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of the CHTA.

Other CHIEF 2024 Highlights:

• The Rockley by Ocean Hotels Group, Barbados received the award for Innovative Sales and Marketing, recognized for effective strategies in attracting and retaining clients.
• Caille Blanc Villa & Hotel was honored with the Technology Transformation Award for integrating advanced solutions into its operations.
• Ti Kaye Resort & Spa in St. Lucia won the award for Environmental Sustainability, showcasing a holistic commitment to sustainability through investments in renewable energy, LED lighting, and an expanded composting program aimed at reducing fossil fuel usage by 50%.
• The Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association was awarded for Social Responsibility, recognizing its positive impact on local communities.

CHIEF 2024: The Heart of Caribbean Hospitality

The CHIEF Forum, held from November 18-20, 2024, is the premier event for Caribbean tourism and hospitality professionals. This dynamic gathering features expert-led sessions, the Exchange Hub with allied member displays, and the presentation of the prestigious CHIEF Awards, celebrating excellence across the industry.

With initiatives like these, CHIEF continues to set a benchmark for quality and sustainability in Caribbean tourism, fostering the growth of a vibrant industry committed to its people and the environment.