Young Vincentians Shine with Bold Ideas at 2025 Tourism Congress

From left to right: Kristi Huggins, Caleb Johnson, Kenneil Bess,Abigail Garrick, Yana Benny and Isaiah Toney.

By Admin. Updated 4:52 p.m., Thursday, April 17, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture proudly hosted the National Tourism Youth Congress on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, showcasing the remarkable talent, intellect, and passion of Vincentian youth in tourism discourse.

This year’s event brought together six exceptional students from secondary schools across the country who looked forward to assuming the role of Junior Minister of Tourism. The participants offered fresh perspectives and innovative ideas on relevant topics in the tourism industry.

The participants were: Abigail Garrick – Thomas Saunders Secondary School, Kenneil Bess – Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School, Kristi Huggins – St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, Caleb Johnson – North Union Secondary School, ⁠⁠Yana Benny – St. Vincent Girls’ High School, and Isaiah Toney – St. Vincent Grammar School.

Each participant received certificates and trophies of participation as well as gift bags from the SVG Tourism Authority for adding their voice to the important discourse. Following dynamic presentations and rigorous discussions, the top three speakers were awarded for their outstanding performances:

In first place was Isaiah Toney of the St. Vincent Grammar School. Isaiah will receive a return ticket, all expenses paid trip to represent Saint Vincent and the Grenadines at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s Regional Tourism Youth Congress where he will join other Junior Ministers from across the Caribbean to deliberate on tourism’s future in the region. Additionally, he received a day pass for two compliments of Young Island Resort.

⁠Second place went to Kennels Bess of Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School. Kenneil received a lunch voucher for two at Beachcombers Hotel and a cell phone.

⁠Securing third place was Kristi Huggins of St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown. Kristi received a lunch voucher for two at the Blue Lagoon Hotel and a cell phone.

The Ministry said they wish to extend heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their exemplary efforts and commended the schools, teachers, and parents who supported these young ambassadors of tourism.