![Tourism Minister Dr Ernest Hilaire (second from right) alongside SLTA representatives [Photo credit: SLTA]](https://thevoiceslu.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Dr-Ernest-Hilaire.webp)
The Caribbean’s tourism industry stands at a defining moment where growth must be measured not just in arrivals, but in resilience, equity, and impact.
SOTIC 2026 brings the region’s tourism leaders, innovators, and stakeholders together to chart that path forward, exploring how smart technology, sustainable practices, and inclusive growth can shape the destinations of tomorrow.
The forum provides an opportunity to delve into strategies to revitalize, innovate, and protect this vital industry, ensuring its continued growth and prosperity for generations to come.
Day Two of SOTIC 2026 brought together tourism leaders, industry stakeholders and partners from across the Caribbean to shape the future of the region’s most vital industry. The event highlighted collaborative efforts to strengthen the Caribbean’s tourism sector.
With leaders and stakeholders converging, the focus centered on sustainable development, innovation, and regional cooperation. Discussions emphasized resilience against climate change, digital transformation in travel, and inclusive growth strategies.
The event underscored Guyana’s emerging role as a hub for Caribbean tourism dialogue, fostering partnerships that aim to boost economic diversification and job creation across island nations.
Saint Lucia’s delegation at the event included Tourism and Creative Arts Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire participating in the official opening ceremony and the traditional breaking of the coconut, marking the start of the conference.
His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, welcomed delegates and shared his vision for the future of tourism and the wider Caribbean.
Saint Lucia’s presence incorporated key stakeholders, with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) CEO Louis E. A. Lewis alongside management and staff and representatives from the Ministry of Tourism participating in the conference.
Highlighting the need for transitioning to the next generation, Junior Minister of Tourism Tiffany Jn. Jaques, represented Saint Lucia at the upcoming Youth Congress, on Thursday, joining the discussions in bringing the voice and perspective of Saint Lucia’s young people to conversations about the future of tourism.
On Friday, Saint Lucia was in the spotlight as the destination hosted its SOTIC press briefing, unveiling what is new, exciting and evolving across the island.
Saint Lucia – Let Her Inspire You.