The ongoing Community Business Revitalization Project (CBRP) marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, with two simple yet profoundly important signing ceremonies in its partner communities: Fond St. Jacques and Laborie. These events celebrate two years of achievement since the initiative’s inception, during which the communities have reached many significant goals.
One of the most important successes is the establishment of the community package tour, created in collaboration with The Signature Travel Group Inc. This success is now being formalized through the official signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The MoUs were signed by The Signature Travel Group Inc. with the Fond St. Jacques Development Committee and Anse Kawet Crafters from Laborie, respectively, symbolizing a strong and affirmed commitment to future collaboration.
Mr. Louis Tsou, Project Manager for the Community Business Revitalization Project (CBRP), said the MoUs will help bring more international visitors into the communities through The Signature Travel Group Inc., and to experience the authentic and unique community experience.
“By establishing this holistic partnership and ecosystem, it will not only allow the local committee to sustain but also benefit the small businesses in the community,” he said.
Mrs. Avice James-Louisy, President of Anse Kawet Crafters, described the signing as a dream come true.
“My dream has become a reality,” she said at the signing. “The Papèl Craft Centre is being recognized, not only by us in Laborie, but by the whole of Saint Lucia. We were dormant, but now we’re alive and awake. Thanks to the Taiwan Government, through the hard work of Louis Tsou, it has become a reality.”
Mrs. Sandra Prospere, President of Fond St. Jacques Development Committee, said the signing marks not just the beginning of a partnership, but also the strengthening of a shared vision for sustainable and inclusive tourism.
“Through this collaboration between Fond St. Jacques Development Committee and The Signature Travel Group Inc., we are taking another step towards realizing our dream of community-based tourism that celebrates our people, our culture, and our way of life,” she said.
Prospere said the “Taste of Community Life — Fond St. Jacques Tour” will allow visitors to see, taste, and feel the true essence of the community: its hospitality, creativity, and resilience. She added that the tour is a story told through the lives and hands of residents.
“We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Taiwan Technical Mission, whose continued partnership, guidance, and support have been instrumental in shaping our community initiatives,” Prospere said. “The Mission’s vision and encouragement were the foundation that led to this agreement.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Stephia Hippolyte, Manager for Product & Business Development for The Signature Travel Group Inc., described working with officials from both communities as enriching and exciting.
“It has been a beautiful journey since meeting the team from Anse Kawet Crafters,” she said. “Just knowing that we’re part of this pivotal point in your journey is really an honour. So we’re very happy to be on board.”
She added: “Having worked with the team in Fond St. Jacques under this project has also been a great experience. We really look forward to developing this product and others in the future.”