The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has opened registration for the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF 2024). This premier event is set to take place November 18-20, 2024, at the Kovens Conference Center in North Miami.

Under the theme “Keeping it Real – Amplifying Caribbean Tourism through Authenticity, Integration and Immersion”, CHIEF 2024 promises to deliver cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities for hospitality professionals across the region.

Patricia Affonso-Dass, Chair of the CHIEF 2024 Planning Committee, explained that “CHIEF 2024 is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action for the Caribbean hospitality industry.”

“Under our comprehensive theme, we’re focusing on what truly sets our region apart: our authenticity, our people, and our commitment to sustainable tourism. This forum will equip attendees with the knowledge and connections to not just navigate the future but to shape it,” she stated.

CHIEF 2024 will cover a range of critical topics, including:

• Marketing the Authentic Caribbean Experience: Delegates will discover strategies to showcase the Caribbean’s unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local experiences. This includes promoting local cuisine, artisans, eco-tourism and community-based experiences.
• Embracing Technology and Innovation: Attendees will explore the latest technological advancements reshaping the hospitality industry. They will learn how AI can improve their offerings to visitors and optimize operations and marketing.
• Boosting Revenue with Proven Strategies: Participants will gain insights into tactics to increase profitability in the competitive Caribbean tourism market. Sessions will feature case studies and discussions of dynamic pricing models and upselling techniques.
• Prioritizing Staff and Guest Well-Being: Delegates will delve into the growing importance of well-being for employees and guests in the hospitality industry. Strategies will be shared to enhance staff satisfaction and retention, integrate wellness programs and create environments that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

The forum will also feature the return of the popular CHIEF Speed Networking Session, allowing attendees to forge valuable connections in the industry. The full schedule of events is available at https://chtachief.com/schedule-of-events. Members and non-members are invited to register early to take advantage of the Early Bird rate at https://chtachief.com/registration/.

As the Caribbean’s top networking conference, CHIEF provides an unmatched platform for industry leaders to connect and collaborate. With expert-led sessions, an Exchange Hub for showcasing the latest innovations, and the prestigious CHIEF Awards, the event is essential for staying ahead in the hospitality sector.

For more details about CHIEF 2024, including sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, visit chtachief.com.

Nassau, Bahamas, September 12, 2024 – Digital resources have become an integral part of day-to-day business activities and the education experience. As another school year begins and library traffic heightens, students and patrons across the country will have more devices at their fingertips.

CIBC Caribbean recently donated a substantial number of computers to public libraries and Yellow Elder Primary School. The computers donated to the National Library and Information Services will be distributed to libraries in New Providence, Abaco, and Grand Bahama.

Jacqui Bend, CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director said, “At CIBC Caribbean, we are deeply committed to advancing technology both within our organization and in the communities we serve. By donating these computers to libraries and schools across The Bahamas, we’re helping to ensure that everyone has the digital tools they need to thrive in today’s world, just as we continually innovate to better serve our clients.”

Dorcas Bowler, Director of Libraries, emphasized the importance of CIBC Caribbean’s donation.

She said, “In today’s technological world, a library does not only house books but is also an information hub and a treasure trove to access information at the click of a mouse on computer terminals, tablets, and other electronic devices via the Internet and WIFI. Patrons, including adults and children, need up-to-date information for success in school and everyday living.

“This donation from CIBC Caribbean aligns perfectly with our mission to provide ready access to quality resources and services for all persons throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. It supports our vision of an accessible library system equipped to meet the demands of the 21st century.”

Bowler further highlighted the critical role libraries play in fostering lifelong learning and providing equitable access to information. “Libraries build strong communities and change lives,” she said.

“This generous donation from CIBC will significantly enhance our ability to offer modern technological resources to all, particularly in remote and underserved communities.”

Yellow Elder Primary School will utilize the computers to enhance its educational offerings. The school’s acting principal, Tamica Adderley, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “Computers play a pivotal role in modern education, revolutionizing the learning experience for both educators and students.”

Adderley said, “At Yellow Elder Primary School, these computers will enable our students to engage with adaptive learning platforms such as Renaissance Star 360, which tailors educational content to individual learning needs. This not only fosters a dynamic and participatory learning environment but also ensures that our students are equipped with the vital digital literacy skills necessary for future success.”

She added, “On behalf of Yellow Elder Primary School Family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to CIBC Caribbean for its generous donation. CIBC Caribbean’s commitment to education and technology will have a lasting impact on the learning experiences of our students. With CIBC’s support, we can create a technologically enriched environment that empowers our students to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Thank you for being a valuable partner in shaping the future of our community.”

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Libraries across the country and Yellow Elder Primary School received computers from CIBC Caribbean to support the evolving needs of day-to-day business activities and the education experience

September 12, 2024, Montego Bay, Jamaica – Jessica Shannon, chief experience officer at Sandals Resorts International, has been recognized as one of the 2024 winners of the Inaugural Global CX 100 Awards.

This prestigious accolade places Shannon among the top 100 customer experience leaders globally, spanning diverse industries such as hospitality, finance, commerce and healthcare, among several others.

“I am grateful to be honoured as one of the Global CX 100 award winners,” Shannon stated. “Success in customer experience requires a passion for impact, the agility to support and lead across many functional areas and the ability to build trusted relationships. At Sandals Resorts International, we are in relentless pursuit of excellence in customer and employee experience, and I am blessed with a fantastically talented team to help make it happen every day.”

According to the Global CX 100 team, the award places a spotlight on the critical role of customer experience leaders in enhancing their organisations’ competitive edge through transformational strategies focused on customers and clients. These leaders excel in implementing innovative product, experience, and strategic business models, as well as operational practices. Whether holding a C-suite position or operating within an established function, the Global CX 100 celebrates their strategic insight, visionary leadership, and ability to adapt to market demands with a profound understanding of the most vital stakeholder- the customer.

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Jessica Shannon, chief experience officer at Sandals Resorts International.