Ministry Celebrates Five “Super Women” In Tourism

Five “super women” in the tourism industry have been acknowledged by the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport in the second year of the Women In Tourism initiative.

They are: Carmeta Burrowes, a junior chef at the Sandy Lane Hotel; Shontelle Edwards, owner and operator of One Family Tours and Taxi Services; Sylvia Jones, Housekeeper – student dorms at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus; Janice Clarke, Country Cook at Scorpion Den, and Angela Garraway-Holland, Chief Instructor at the Jean and Norma Holder Hospitality Institute.

Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill, at a ceremony held this morning at the Ministry, One Barbados Place, Warrens, St. Michael, noted that women continue to make an unwavering integral contribution to the industry that has helped to make Barbados a “standout” tourist destination.

Mr. Gooding-Edghill stated: “Women bring their unique perspectives and innovations to the tourism industry, contributing to its growth and success. Their knowledge, skills and experiences help promote cultural exchanges and understanding, and contribute to the overall quality of the tourism experience. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that women in the tourism industry have equal opportunities for employment, training and advancement, as well as a safe and supportive work environment.”

He emphasised that it was essential for gender equality and the overall success and sustainability of the industry to highlight the importance of women in the tourism industry and promote their empowerment.

“I’m honoured to celebrate these five extraordinary women today, and on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport, I thank them for their contributions to our industry and community. Let us all take inspiration from their achievements and continue to work towards a more equitable and inclusive society, where every woman and girl can thrive,” Minister Gooding-Edghill said.

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) Communications Officer, Keisha Springer, and BTMI’s Copywriter, Rhe-Ann Prescod, who organised the event this year, explained that the women were nominated by their peers, and chosen via a panel of judges, for their work in the industry and for inspiring their communities. 


Tourism Minister, Ian Gooding-Edghill, poses with the “super women” of the tourism industry – (left to right) Carmeta Burrowes; Sylvia Jones; Angela Garraway-Holland; Shontelle Edwards; and Janice Clarke. (C. Pitt/BGIS)