The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development proudly announces the successful hosting of the 2026 Tourism Youth Congress, a dynamic platform that continues to cultivate youth engagement, innovation, and leadership within the tourism sector of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
This year’s Congress brought together a talented cohort of students representing eight (8) secondary schools across the country. Participants demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and creativity as they addressed critical topics shaping the future of regional tourism, including sustainable destination management, cultural industries, and the evolving role of tourism professionals.
The participating students, their respective schools, and presentation topics were as follows:
- Ms. MaKiesha Charles of the Buccament Bay Secondary School – Social Media and Sustainable Destination Management
- Ms. Nailah Jordon of the Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School – Social Media and Sustainable Destination Management
- Mr. Aaron McDonald of the St. Vincent Grammar School – Social Media and Sustainable Destination Management
- Ms. Angelique Edwards of the Bishops College Kingstown – Cultural Industries and Tourism Innovation
- Ms. Xia Glass of the Girls’ High School – Cultural Industries and Tourism Innovation
- Mr. Braxton Lewis of the North Union Secondary School – Cultural Industries and Tourism Innovation
- Ms. Chiara Farrell of the Charles Adams Anglican High School – The New Age of Tourism Professionals
- Ms. Acadiah Ashton of the Union Island Secondary School – The New Age of Tourism Professionals
- Students presented in the order listed, grouped by topic areas, contributing to a well-structured and engaging programme.
Emerging as the 2026 Tourism Youth Congress Champion is Mr. Braxton Lewis of the North Union Secondary School. His exceptional presentation on Cultural Industries and Tourism Innovation earned him the opportunity to represent Saint Vincent and the Grenadines at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s State of Tourism Conference in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana this year. Mr. Lewis will receive a round-trip travel package, a summer internship at the Breeze Travel Solutions, EC$1,500 compliments Cultural Ambassador Gamal Doyle, and a gift certificate courtesy of Coreas valued at EC$500.
Second place was awarded to Mr. Aaron McDonald of the St. Vincent Grammar School for his compelling presentation on Social Media and Sustainable Destination Management. His prize package includes a gift certificate valued at EC$500 compliments Coreas, a BBQ dinner for two at Paradise Beach Hotel, and EC$1,500 sponsored by Cultural Ambassador Gamal Doyle.
Third place went to Ms. Xia Glass of the Girls’ High School, whose presentation on Cultural Industries and Tourism Innovation demonstrated poise and insight. She will receive a gift certificate valued at EC$200 from Coreas, EC$1,500 compliments Gamal Doyle, and a dinner for two at Grenadine House.
The Ministry extends heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their outstanding contributions and commendable representation of their schools. Special appreciation is extended to Cultural Ambassador Gamal Doyle for his continued investment in youth development, as well as to Coreas and the hospitality partners for their generous support.
The Tourism Youth Congress remains a cornerstone initiative in fostering the next generation of tourism leaders, ensuring that young Vincentians are equipped, empowered, and inspired to contribute to the sustainable growth and global competitiveness of the tourism sector.
The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development reaffirms its commitment to youth engagement and looks forward to the continued success of this important national programme.
SOURCE: Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development
