In a daring step towards generational inclusion and long-term sustainability, the Caribbean Lodge and Tourism Affiliation (CHTA) has appointed two rising stars from its Younger Leaders Program to its Board of Administrators for the 2025–2027 time period. The appointments mark a major milestone within the affiliation’s push to combine younger professionals into high-level management roles.
Yatsuri “Sue” Marshall, Normal Supervisor of Bay Gardens Marina Haven in Saint Lucia, and Mikael Doumeng, Director of Digital Advertising at Bolongo Bay Seaside Resort within the U.S. Virgin Islands, will serve on the CHTA Board following a proper nomination course of. Doumeng may also sit on the Govt Committee, representing the Younger Leaders Program—an initiative designed to empower rising expertise and amplify new voices within the Caribbean hospitality area.
“These appointments signify greater than a title—they signify motion,” mentioned Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of CHTA. “We’re realizing our dedication to present rising leaders a voice on the decision-making desk. We’re proud to help the management journeys of Yatsuri and Mikael and are assured they’ll carry precious perspective, ardour, and innovation to CHTA.”
The transfer comes on the heels of by-law adjustments handed in January 2025 throughout a Particular Assembly, which created official pathways for younger professionals to contribute to strategic discussions inside CHTA. The Younger Leaders Program, launched to foster future-ready management, additionally goals to construct stronger regional networks and inject contemporary considering into the trade.
“Our trade’s long-term sustainability depends on the vitality, innovation, and perspective of rising professionals,” mentioned Sanovnik Destang, CHTA President. “By opening new pathways to management via the Younger Leaders Program, we’re not solely investing in CHTA’s future, but in addition reinforcing the power and continuity of Caribbean tourism as a complete.”
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With these appointments, CHTA will not be solely honoring its promise to help the skilled development of younger expertise however can also be setting a precedent for significant youth participation throughout the area’s lodge and tourism panorama.
