STAR-STUDDED SUCCESS – THE 15TH ANNUAL TCHTA STAR AWARDS HONOURS TOURISM EXCELLENCE
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The stars aligned for an unforgettable evening as the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) marked an historic milestone with its 15th annual Star Awards. With a record-breaking attendance of 450 guests, this edition proved to be the grandest yet, hosted at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, the very same location that inaugurated the first Star Awards.
The event boasted all the pomp and circumstance it deserved, accented by an array of captivating elements, including a live painting performance by Nikki Forbes, a soulful saxophone rendition by Moe’ments of Sax, and a climactic ending with the vibrant beats of Junkanoo by the WeFunk Band accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display. Tess the Performer, a 2017 Star Awards Entertainer of the Year awardee, setting an electrifying tone as the opening act, while DJ Flave of Prime DJs kept the energy alive throughout the event.
Recognized as the country’s largest celebration for the hardworking individuals in the tourism sector – the cornerstone of Turks and Caicos’ #1 industry and largest economic driver – this year’s event set new standards for extravagance, unity, and excellence welcoming a record-breaking attendance of 450 guests.
Showcasing a commitment to saluting excellence, the Star Awards featured two distinctive category types. The first celebrated winners submitted in their respective categories by their teams, while the second saw a panel of esteemed judges, led by Head Judge Suzann Snaggs-Wilson, meticulously deliberating to select outstanding individuals based on predefined criteria for a few select categories.
The return of K Darron Turnquest as electrifying Emcee and past Keynote Speaker, and TCHTA Communications Manager, S. Omega Simmons, as Awards Announcer added a touch of familiarity and charm to the night as the men and women of the industry were encouraged to fully engage and revel in the night’s festivities.
A significant highlight was the surprise presentation to TCHTA’s Marketing Chair, Karen Whitt. As the visionary behind the TCHTA Star Awards during her tenure as the association’s President, Whitt was honoured with the live painting from the event and a tripod adorned in the hues of the Turks and Caicos’ turquoise waters – a nod to her love for capturing the beauty of the destination through photos.
TCHTA President James McAnally, Managing Director of Beaches Resort Villages & Spa shared, “Having the event here again is a pleasure and truly reminiscent of where it all began. This event’s growth mirrors the exceptional strides our industry continues to make, and our team is proud to have played a part in making history tonight.”
In a destination where tourism is not just an industry but a way of life, the TCHTA Star Awards stands as a beacon, illuminating the tireless efforts of those who make Turks and Caicos a premier destination. This annual celebration is not only a recognition of individual accomplishments but a testament to the collective spirit that fuels the country’s tourism success story.
“Star Awards exemplifies our commitment to recognizing and celebrating excellence in hospitality. We are ecstatic and humbled at how the community has come to pay homage to these rock stars. It is a joy to see these staff members to shed their usual uniforms, get bedazzled, and enjoy applause and encouragement from their colleagues and Managers.”
The TCHTA extends its gratitude to this year’s sponsors, the Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks & Caicos, and Digicel, and thanks its members and all attendees who contributed to making the 15th annual Star Awards an unforgettable night.
Photos of the event can be found on the TCHTA website in the gallery section: https://turksandcaicoshta.com/photo_gallery/
ENDS
About Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA):
The TCHTA is the voice of the Turks & Caicos tourism and hospitality sector, championing sustainable growth, professional development, and the prosperity of our islands. Our strategic initiatives underscore our commitment to establishing Turks & Caicos as a world-class destination while fostering a community of service, innovation, and inclusivity.
Media Contact
Omega Simmons
(649) 331-8917