Tourism sector hands out industry gongs

(CNS): After a lifetime’s contribution to the local tourism industry Rodney McDowall the creator of Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) received the top Stingray Award of Life Time Achievement and Chris Jackson received the Tourism Excellence Award for outstanding customer service at the 5th annual Cayman Stingray Tourism Awards recently.

These awards were presented alongside 10 others for the different sectors of the tourism industry at a celebratory dinner and ceremony followed by dancing at the Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman on Saturday 29 November. The event was organized by the Cayman Islands Tourism Association’s Training, Education and Scholarship Committee.

The judging panel consisting of members of the CITA Board of Directors and the CITA’s Education and Training Committee selected the following people as winners from the more than 40 nominations. Karie Bergstrom said the event recognized many outstanding people who have contributed to the tourism industry. “Although the individuals who did receive awards were very deserving the selection process had been a very difficult one as the calibre of nominees was so high,” she said. “We would encourage those who nominated someone this year to do so again next year so that they may again be considered for recognition of their contributions. We are very proud that we have such wonderful and professional individuals working in the tourism industry on these Islands and congratulate them on their achievements!” 

Recipients were:

Accommodation Employee of the Year –Charmain Maxwell;

Accommodation Manger of the Year – Brendan O’Connor; Ritz – Carlton Grand Cayman

Allied Employee of the Year – Belinda Blessitt- Vincent; UCCI

Watersports Employee of the Year – Mr. James Dudley; Red Sails Sports

Watersports Manager of the Year – Mr. Chris Jackson; Atlantis

Restaurant Employee of the Year – Mr. Leofred Stull; Breezes by the Bay

Restaurant Manager of the Year – Ms. Joann Calma; Breezes by the Bay

Rising Star of Tourism Award – Shalico Jesse Christian; Ritz – Carlton Grand Cayman

Long Service Award – Mr. Nayon Anglin of Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort. Mr. Nayon who is 78 years old has been dedicated to the Cayman Islands tourism Industry for the past 40 years.