South Caicos Students Dive into Tourism Careers at Career Fair
Experience Turks and Caicos Inaugurates Enlightening Event
On January 22nd, 2024, the Marjorie Basden High School campus in South Caicos transformed into a hub of tourism exploration as students immersed themselves in the inaugural Tourism Career and Entrepreneurship Fair. Held at the South Caicos Community Centre from 11 am to 3 pm, the event ignited aspirations for tourism careers and entrepreneurial ventures among the island’s youth.
Experience Turks and Caicos, the driving force behind this initiative, curated a diverse lineup of organizations to engage with students. These exhibitors encompassed a wide spectrum of tourism-related entities:
– Department of Tourism Regulations
– Invest TCI
– TCI Airports Authority
– Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR)
– Department of Fisheries and Marine Resource Management
– Turks and Caicos National Trust
– Chili’s Catering & Takeout
– Sailrock Resort
– Salterra Resort
Government and Industry Luminaries Inspire Young Minds
The Honorable Jameka Williams, Government’s Appointed Member, graced the event with her presence, lauding Experience Turks and Caicos for bringing this golden opportunity to South Caicos students. She eloquently painted a picture of the island’s untapped potential, boasting two prominent hotel properties, a state-of-the-art international airport, and an atmosphere steeped in tranquility. Ms. Williams passionately encouraged students to pursue the necessary qualifications and return to South Caicos to capitalize on the wealth of opportunities awaiting them.
Ms. Racquel Brown, the visionary Change Manager and Interim CEO of Experience Turks and Caicos, shared her personal journey, illuminating the myriad career paths that tourism offers. She urged students to delve into their passions and interests, emphasizing that the industry is a tapestry of diverse possibilities.
Mr. Norman Saunders, a former Hon. Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands, regaled the audience with a historical narrative of tourism’s evolution in the country. He vividly recounted his pivotal role in shaping the industry after the salt industry’s closure in 1964. Mr. Saunders imparted valuable lessons learned from other islands’ experiences, underscoring the importance of tailoring tourism development to the unique attributes of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
A Treasure Trove of Career and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
The fair served as an interactive platform for students to engage with industry stalwarts, glean insights into career options, and explore entrepreneurial possibilities. Exhibitors enthusiastically shared information on various tourism-related roles, encompassing regulations, investments, airport operations, environmental conservation, marine resource management, and hospitality.
Students eagerly engaged in conversations, posed thoughtful questions, and gained invaluable insights into the inner workings of the tourism industry. They also delved into available training programs, scholarships, and financial assistance for those aspiring to pursue higher education or embark on entrepreneurial journeys.
Providenciales Beckons: Next Stop on the Career Exploration Tour
Buoyed by the resounding success of the South Caicos event, Experience Turks and Caicos is poised to replicate this transformative experience in Providenciales on February 1st, 2024, at the Graceway Sports Centre. This upcoming event promises to provide similar opportunities for students to explore tourism careers and entrepreneurial prospects.
Experience Turks and Caicos remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands. By providing access to information, resources, and inspiration, the organization aims to nurture a skilled and passionate workforce that will contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the country’s tourism sector.
Call to Action: Embrace the Tourism Horizon
To the aspiring tourism professionals and entrepreneurs of South Caicos and Providenciales, the Tourism Career and Entrepreneurship Fair beckons you to seize this golden opportunity. Engage with industry experts, explore diverse career paths, and unlock your entrepreneurial potential. The future of tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands awaits your contributions. Embrace the horizon and embark on a journey of endless possibilities.