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.

September 24, 2024 – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the appointment of Trinidad and Tobago national Narendra Ramgulam as its new Sustainable Tourism Consultant.

Ramgulam brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position, focusing on advancing sustainable practices across the Caribbean region.

As a leading regional tourism development agency, CTO is committed to promoting sustainable tourism that benefits the Caribbean people economically and socially. Ramgulam’s appointment aligns with the CTO’s mission to create a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector in the Caribbean. His expertise in sustainable tourism, coupled with his passion for the region, will be instrumental in driving forward initiatives that promote responsible and environmentally friendly tourism practices.

Ramgulam previously served as Director of Tourism Product Development & Destination Management at the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited, where his work led to prestigious sustainability awards and a strengthened reputation for safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also served as a Postgraduate Coordinator and Lecturer at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus.

Ramgulam continues the work previously spearheaded by Amanda Charles, who managed the CTO’s sustainability initiatives for eight years, organizing and participating in international and regional conferences and sustainable tourism initiatives. “We are grateful for Amanda’s considerable contributions to the CTO’s sustainable tourism development initiatives throughout the years,” said CTO Secretary-General & CEO Dona Regis-Prosper. “Her dedication and expertise have been invaluable in advancing our position and have contributed to sustainable development in the region,” she added.

The CTO leader looks forward to furthering the CTO’s sustainability agenda in the future: “With Narendra’s proven track record and extensive knowledge, we are confident that he will significantly contribute to advancing sustainable tourism practices across the Caribbean. We are excited that we can leverage his expertise and guide our member countries towards a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.”

Ramgulam is a prolific researcher with 13 publications in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters. He is also an active participant in tourism conferences, sharing his expertise in the areas of sustainable tourism, tourism anthropology, tourism product development, and economic diversification.