Inaugural Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat Unites Region in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (November 17th, 2025) – Women from across the Caribbean and the wider diaspora gathered in the Turks and Caicos Islands from November 13th to 16th for the inaugural Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat — a transformative convening designed to foster connection, courage, and a powerful sisterhood among women shaping the region’s tourism industry.

The retreat is the vision of Stacy Cox, Founder of Women in Tourism Caribbean. What began during the pandemic as a virtual platform honouring the women driving the industry has now evolved into a groundbreaking in-person experience centered on storytelling, authenticity, and collective empowerment.

Women from Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Barbados, Saint Lucia, the US Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, Jamaica, Cuba, and Toronto answered the call, reinforcing the retreat’s regional significance and growing influence.

“My heart is full. This Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat was created to give women a safe space to remove the mask, speak truthfully about the challenges we face, be vulnerable while drawing strength from our shared experiences, and build a real sisterhood. We achieved all of that and more, and I am deeply grateful to every woman who embraced this mission,” said Cox.

The retreat opened with a warm welcome reception at Beaches Turks and Caicos attended by Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams, Minister of Tourism Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Permanent Secretary Wesley Clerveaux, and Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, Mr. Paul Pennicook.

On Friday, keynote speaker Lisa Hanna, former Jamaican MP, joined delegates on outreach visits to local schools — including the Special Needs Association Providenciales (SNAP) Centre and Clement Howell High School — where the women engaged students in meaningful dialogue and encouragement. The day closed with a relaxing sunset boat tour along world-famous Grace Bay.

Saturday’s signature Brunch and Conversation at The Shore Club brought together bold, unfiltered discussions surrounding leadership presence, work–life balance, navigating male-dominated environments, the pressures that come with public visibility, and the responsibility women carry to uplift one another.

In her keynote address, Lisa Hanna challenged attendees to prepare for the advancing age of artificial intelligence, embrace reinvention, and remain attuned to global shifts. She emphasised that the region’s advancement depends on women claiming their place at decision-making tables and leading with intention, resilience, and vision.                                                                                                                                                           The retreat was supported by a strong community of partners, including Hartling Group, recognised as the Platinum Sponsor, along with valuable support from Tropical Shipping, VIP Flyers Club, SOS Media, Kia Connolly, HAB Group, TKCA, Tiffany Minnis, Waterloo Collection, Ministry of Tourism, Beaches, Grace Bay Car Rental, InterCaribbean, Experience Turks and Caicos, Spotlight Communication, FLOW, and WIHL Community Kind.

The Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat will return to the Turks and Caicos Islands in November 12th – 15th, 2026, promising an even more dynamic and impactful experience for women across the region.