Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Keyana Warner, the Junior Minister of Tourism from Nevis , has been crowned the winner of the 20th Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Tropical Shipping Regional Tourism Youth Congress. Warner, a student from Charlestown Secondary School, secured the victory following an outstanding presentation on Thursday at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa. The Congress, a highlight of the CTO State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) and held under the theme “Caribbean Tourism: Through the Eyes of Tomorrow”, featured 12 talented young tourism advocates from across the Caribbean.

These young minds shared their innovative ideas and passion for the future of the region’s tourism industry, exploring topics such as adventure tourism, solo travel, collaboration across cultures, and the blue economy. Anthurium Lewis of Bishop’s High School in Tobago claimed second place, while Khari Gonsalves of Basseterre High School in St. Kitts secured third place.

“The Congress, along with the activities leading up to this event, plays a crucial role in introducing the next generation to the significant impact tourism has on our region,” said Master of Ceremonies Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s Director of Resource Mobilization and Development. “It is not just a competition; it is a gateway to nurturing the next generation of tourism advocates and innovators who will shape the future of the Caribbean tourism industry.” The week leading .