2018 National Bank Tourism Youth Congress breaks monotony of all female participants in several years

(SKNIS): This year’s National Bank Tourism Youth Congress was especially significant as not only did all the public schools in St. Kitts participate, but the usually female dominated congress saw two male entries for the first time in several years.

“Last year, we only had three schools participating. So, it really does warm my heart and I’m sure all of the hearts of the organizers that all of the government high schools have seen it fit to be involved in this worthwhile competition,” said Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Carlene Henry-Morton.

Mrs. Morton added that it is comforting to note that there are two young men participating. “As for several years, nary a young man…all young ladies,” said the permanent secretary.

Students who participated in the congress included Basseterre High School – Chanah Crossman; Cayon High School – Allese Clarke; Charles E. Mills Secondary- Aushaun Brown; Saddlers Secondary- Curje Stevens; Verchilds High School – Tabitha Marsham and Washington Archibald High – Anya Seetahal.

Winning the title of Junior Tourism Minister was Aushaun Brown who will participate in the Regional Tourism Youth Congress, which will take place during the State of Industries Conference to be held in the Bahamas from October 22 to 26.

Coming in second was Anya Seetahal and third was Allese Clarke.

The permanent secretary commended the ministry’s partners, the Ministry of Education, for following up with the schools and encouraging them to participate in the 2018 National Tourism Youth Congress.

“The Ministry of Tourism is indeed grateful for your collaboration and your active involvement,” she said.

The Tourism Youth Congress affords students the opportunity to enhance their research and public speaking skills so that they are equipped to debate and voice opinions on various tourism-related topics.

This year’s congress was held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort on April 27.