Amy Stephen Launches Pelican Tours: The First CTA West Coast Project

In a significant milestone for the vibrant fishing village of Anse La Raye, young entrepreneur Amy Stephen has launched Pelican Tours, an exciting eco-tourism project that celebrates the community’s unique essence.

This initiative marks the village as the first on the West Coast to host a project from the Community Tourism Agency (CTA), making it the inaugural project for 2026.

As a driven youth activist, Amy has turned her adventurous spirit into a business that highlights the beauty of Anse La Raye while honoring the people who contribute to its rich culture.

Pelican Tours offers a variety of experiences, including kayaking, e-bike tours, and culturally inspired paint-and-sip sessions, all designed to showcase the community’s natural allure and heritage.

At the formal launch ceremony, Amy expressed her vision: “We aim to celebrate the village of Anse La Raye and the people who live here.”

She also shared plans for future offerings, including pottery workshops. This dream became a reality through Amy’s partnership with the CTA, which has been involved in Anse La Raye for the past three years.

The CTA provided funding through a loan-grant arrangement alongside essential support services.

Dahlia Guard, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CTA, commended Amy’s dedication throughout the challenging journey to this launch.

“This initiative is more than just activities; it’s about creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and inspiring young people to see tourism as a viable career path,” she declared. “It also allows Anse La Raye to strengthen its position as a community tourism destination on Saint Lucia’s West Coast.”

John Mathurin, Deputy Chairman of the CTA, added, “Pelican Tours originates from a community rich in history and culture, embodying the true spirit of being a Saint Lucian. This initiative proves that community tourism can thrive when developed by the local residents.”

Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), expressed his support, stating, “This project creates employment opportunities and helps alleviate congestion in the north, allowing individuals to work and earn in their own communities.” He emphasized the broader societal benefits of breaking the mold in Anse La Raye.

Wayne Girard, Parliamentary Representative for Anse La Raye/Canaries, praised Amy for her initiative and encouraged other West Coast youth to seize the opportunities available through the Youth Economy Agency (YEA) and the Community Tourism Agencies.

Following the official launch, guests and residents of Anse La Raye participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Pelican Tours’ head office, marking the beginning of many inspiring projects driven by Amy’s groundbreaking venture.

[R.A]