BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Jolé St. John, a 16-year-old Junior Minister of Tourism from Tobago, emerged as the winner of the 2025 Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Regional Tourism Youth Congress, held on October 2 at the Hilton Barbados Resort during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC). St. John’s innovative and forward-thinking ideas for the future of Caribbean tourism captivated judges after an afternoon of spirited debate among some of the region’s brightest young minds.
The Youth Congress, a cornerstone of CTO’s mission to nurture future leaders, brought together students aged 14 to 17 from 16 member countries and territories to present research and creative solutions for the Caribbean’s vital tourism sector.
St. Kitts was proudly represented by Mary Ann Shelford, whose passionate and articulate presentation showcased the island’s vibrant culture and commitment to sustainable tourism. While Shelford did not place in the top three, her compelling ideas and confident delivery highlighted St. Kitts’ potential to shine on the regional stage, earning praise from attendees and organizers alike.
Caleader Lewison, Junior Minister of Tourism from Jamaica, secured second place with a strong performance, while Aylani Morris Seymour from the Cayman Islands took third, rounding out an impressive top three. Isaiah Toney, representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines, received a special recognition prize for exceptional qualities beyond the competition’s scoring criteria, underscoring the depth of talent among participants.
Supported by sponsors such as Breeze Travel Solutions, Carnival Corporation & plc, and Winged Whale Media, the Congress fosters critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills. Participants, including Shelford, also engaged in enriching sessions like a Tourism Youth Congress Master Class led by Ed Limon of Winged Whale Media and a career-focused workshop, “Level Up: A Teen Career Launchpad,” facilitated by Davina Layne.
Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s Director of Resource Mobilization and Development, praised the participants, stating, “The creativity, passion, and vision displayed by these young leaders prove that the future of Caribbean tourism is in excellent hands.”
St. Kitts and Nevis residents join the region in celebrating Jolé St. John’s victory and commending Mary Ann Shelford for her outstanding representation of the Federation. The 2025 Youth Congress reaffirmed the promise of the next generation to shape a sustainable and vibrant future for Caribbean tourism.