Move hailed as a milestone step toward inclusion of next generation of hospitality professionals

In a groundbreaking move that underscores its commitment to developing the next generation of Caribbean hospitality leaders, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has appointed two rising hospitality professionals from its Young Leaders Programme to serve on the CHTA Board of Directors for the 2025–2027 term. The appointments follow the by-law changes adopted at the association’s Special Meeting on January 31, 2025, which created new pathways for young professionals to help shape the future of the region’s hospitality and tourism industry.

Yatsuri “Sue” Marshall, General Manager at Bay Gardens Marina Haven in Saint Lucia, and Mikael Doumeng, Director of Digital Marketing at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands, were selected from the inaugural CHTA Young Leaders cohort through a formal nomination process. In addition to his Board appointment, Doumeng has also been named the Young Leaders representative on the CHTA Executive Committee.

“These appointments represent more than a title—they signify action,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of CHTA. “We are realising our commitment to give emerging leaders a voice at the decision-making table. We’re proud to support the leadership journeys of Yatsuri and Mikael and are confident they’ll bring valuable perspective, passion, and innovation to CHTA.”

The Young Leaders Program was established with a clear mission:
• To help develop the next generation of leadership within CHTA and its member destinations
• To support the professional growth of young industry talent
• To ensure young professionals are included in decision-making
• To foster stronger regional networks

To infuse fresh thinking that strengthens both the National Hotel and Tourism Associations and the CHTA. Sanovnik Destang, President of CHTA, emphasised the importance of cultivating future-ready leadership across the region.

“Our industry’s long-term sustainability relies on the energy, innovation, and perspective of emerging professionals,” said Destang. “By opening new pathways to leadership through the Young Leaders Programme, we’re not only investing in CHTA’s future, but also reinforcing the strength and continuity of Caribbean tourism as a whole.”