Women from across the Caribbean tourism sector and the global diaspora convened in the beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands from November 13–16 for the inaugural staging of the Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat, a powerful gathering that blended professional insight, emotional renewal, and a deep celebration of sisterhood.

Born from the vision of Mrs. Stacy Cox, CEO of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), the retreat evolved from an online platform created during the pandemic into a fully immersive, in-person experience. What began as a virtual space to honour the contributions of women in tourism has grown into a regional movement-one designed to cultivate community, amplify women’s voices, and create a safe environment for honest dialogue about the realities they face both in and beyond the workplace.

The gathering drew women from Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Barbados, Saint Lucia, Jamaica, The Bahamas, the US Virgin Islands, and the diaspora in Toronto, underscoring its far-reaching influence and the collective readiness for a forum dedicated to women’s leadership in tourism. The sense of unity among participants was immediate and powerful; women arrived as representatives of their islands but quickly settled into the deeper identity of a shared Caribbean sisterhood.

The weekend unfolded as a thoughtful balance of connection, service, reflection, and empowerment. From the opening reception-attended by Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams, Minister of Tourism Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, and other industry leaders-it was evident that this was not merely another conference. It was a reclamation of space for women whose voices, labour, and leadership have long shaped the region’s most vital industry, often without formal acknowledgement.

One of the retreat’s defining strengths was its emphasis on authenticity and vulnerability. Participants engaged in conversations that peeled back the layers of professional polish to confront real issues: balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities, navigating male-dominated environments, maintaining leadership presence under intense scrutiny, and the emotional costs of always being “on”. These discussions were not theoretical-they were lived experiences shared openly among women who understood them intimately.

The inclusion of community outreach, such as the visit to the Special Needs Association Providenciales (SNAP) Centre, reflected the retreat’s ethos of compassion and grounded leadership. Meanwhile, moments of intentional rest, like the sunset excursion along Grace Bay, served as gentle reminders that restoration is not a luxury but an essential part of sustaining the women who carry so much of the emotional and operational weight within the tourism industry.

A standout moment came with the address by keynote speaker Lisa Hanna, former Jamaican MP, whose message resonated deeply with the audience. Hanna challenged the women to embrace reinvention, prepare for the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence, and remain attuned to geopolitical dynamics that will shape the region’s future. She reminded participants that the Caribbean has always been defined by resilience and creativity-and that women, in particular, bring a blend of passion, pragmatism, and emotional intelligence that is indispensable at decision-making tables. The presentation of a cheque to Hanna in support of relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Melissa honoured her humanitarian work and reinforced the retreat’s commitment to service.

The Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat was a defining moment that signalled the emergence of a movement dedicated to professional growth, emotional wellness, leadership development and collective empowerment. It offered those present a rare opportunity to share their truths without judgment, network authentically and build the kind of bonds that strengthen industries from the inside out.

As the tourism sector continues to rebuild and reshape itself in a post-pandemic world, gatherings like this one highlight a profound truth, Women are not just contributors to the regions most important industry, they are architects of its future.

With the success of the inaugural retreat, the foundation has been laid for a powerful network of Caribbean women committed to leading with strength and shared purpose.