The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) hosted its second annual Diaspora Celebration in Manhattan, honouring a group of individuals whose dedication, generosity, and professionalism have significantly contributed to promoting Antigua and Barbuda in the United States.
The Hon. Charles 'Max' Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, attended the recognition event alongside ABTA Director of Tourism for the USA Dean Fenton and Michelle Lightfoot, Consular Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Consulate General in New York.
The ceremony celebrated long-time friends and partners of the destination whose behind-the-scenes efforts have helped ensure Antigua and Barbuda is represented with warmth, professionalism, and excellence in the New York market and beyond.
Among those recognised was Marcia Skyer James, Director of Sales and Marketing at The Kimberly Hotel. A trusted ABTA partner, Skyer James has repeatedly secured last-minute accommodations for visiting VIPs and dignitaries, ensuring exceptional care and hospitality for Antigua and Barbuda's guests.
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Kathy Sledge, a founding member of Sister Sledge and ambassador for the Halo Foundation, was also honoured. A long-time friend of Antigua and Barbuda, Sledge has consistently lent her support to the destination and to charitable initiatives benefiting local communities.
Additional honourees included Tabassum Qureshi, owner and operator of Ann's Car and Limo Service and affectionately known as "Mr. Tabs," whose dependable transportation services ensure that visiting dignitaries and VIP guests are cared for with professionalism and efficiency.
Veteran steelpan musician Patrick 'Johnny' Gomes, a founding member of the City South Steel Orchestra in the Bronx, was recognised for his longstanding contributions in bringing the vibrant sounds of Caribbean steelpan music to ABTA events, including stepping forward to assist the organisation during its earliest days.
Kim Essen, Business Development Manager for the West Coast, was honoured for her dedication to Antigua and Barbuda, which predates her official appointment. She volunteered her time and expertise to support events and initiatives promoting the destination before formally joining in that capacity.
Sandra Reid, formerly an Administrative Officer with the Department of Tourism in New York and the Ministry of Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda, and now an Administrative Executive with the New York State Assembly, was praised for her many contributions to tourism initiatives, including facilitating wedding ceremonies for couples visiting the island nation.
The ABTA also acknowledged Ashton Gregory, known as "Junior," for his dependable assistance with logistics and event support, ensuring that deliveries, supplies, and operational details run smoothly for ABTA activities across the New York area.
Speaking at the event, Minister Fernandez expressed deep gratitude to the honourees for their steadfast commitment to the destination.
"Tourism is built not only on beautiful beaches and world-class experiences, but on the dedication of people who believe in our destination and give their time, talent, and support to help it succeed," said Minister Fernandez. "These honourees have become part of the extended family of Antigua and Barbuda, and we are deeply grateful for the role they play in strengthening our presence in the United States."
Director of Tourism USA Dean Fenton echoed those sentiments, underscoring the importance of partnerships in promoting the destination.
"The success of Antigua and Barbuda in the U.S. market is made possible by committed partners and friends who consistently go above and beyond," said Fenton. "Each of these individuals has supported our mission in meaningful ways, helping us showcase the warmth, culture, and hospitality that define Antigua and Barbuda."
Several honourees were unable to attend the ceremony in person, including Ted Martin, owner of Uncle Ted's Island Adventures and Tours; Radlie Baptiste, owner of Baptiste Antiguan Experience; Susan Coulton, former Mid-Atlantic Business Development Manager at ABTA; and Jackley Peters, Attaché and Administrative Assistant at the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda in New York.
The recognition event underscored the ABTA's appreciation for the many supporters who help elevate the destination's international profile while fostering strong connections within the Caribbean diaspora community in New York.
