![Noorani Azeez - Chief Executive Officer of the SLHTA [Photo Credit: Voice]](https://thevoiceslu.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Noorani-Azeez-feat.jpg)
Chief Executive Officer of the SLHTA, Mr. Noorani Azeez, described the initiative as a meaningful partnership aimed at extending the benefits of tourism beyond the sector and into communities where the impact is most needed. “It has been a delight for the SLHTA’s Tourism Enhancement Fund to partner with the Boys Training Centre this year through the gift-giving of food hampers. It is our hope that the continued rehabilitation work being done with these young men will, in the long run, allow them to become good and upright citizens of Saint Lucia who, in turn, can make a productive contribution to our society and nation.”
Mr. Azeez noted that the donation comes at a time when resources are increasingly scarce, underscoring the importance of collaboration and strategic investment at the community level. He further emphasized that the SLHTA values partnerships with institutions that have a proven track record of delivering meaningful outcomes. “Working with institutions like the Boys Training Centre, which has a tried and proven record of developmental work with young people, makes us especially pleased to collaborate with agencies that can truly make a meaningful impact in our communities,” Mr. Azeez added.
Manager of the Boys Training Centre, Ms. Leanna Wallace, expressed sincere appreciation to the SLHTA and its partners for the timely and thoughtful contribution. “The Boys Training Centre, operating under the Ministry of Equity, Labour, Gender and Elderly Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Welfare expresses its gratitude to Ms. Donette Ismael, Coordinator of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, under the leadership of Mr. Noorani Azeez, Chief Executive Officer of the Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association, for the generous support extended to the boys and the families in our care,” Ms. Wallace said.
She explained that the food hampers will be distributed to families in January, a period she described as particularly appropriate, noting that the weeks following Christmas often present challenges for vulnerable households. “Partnerships of this nature send a clear message about the significant impact of our tourism industry on many lives, both directly and indirectly. They also underscore the importance of continued support for all sectors of our economy.”
Ms. Wallace further conveyed gratitude on behalf of the Honourable Minister Emma Hippolyte, Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, as well as the staff, boys, and families of the Boys Training Centre, and expressed optimism for the continuation of the partnership with the SLHTA.
The Boys Training Centre provides structured care, guidance, and rehabilitative support to young men, with the goal of fostering positive behaviour, responsibility, and reintegration into society.