Anguilla’s hospitality and travel community came together for a glamorous evening that celebrated excellence and achievement across the island’s vibrant tourism sector.
The Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association (AHTA), with support from the Anguilla Tourist Board, hosted its annual Tourism Awards Gala on Saturday, 6 December, at Aurora Anguilla Resort.
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The event, which brought together more than 200 attendees, saw 15 outstanding individuals and organisations proudly receive awards.
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, was named ‘Hotel of the Year,’ an accolade the property described to Anguilla Focus as a reflection of the thoughtfulness and intention behind its guest experience.
“Our Julucans, many of whom have been with us for decades, continue to show up and embody the spirit of genuine connection and warm hospitality that makes the property linger in the minds of all who visit long after they depart.
“This honour belongs to all of them, and we know that Sue Ricketts would be incredibly proud.”
A deep inspiration
Taking the ‘Rising Star Award’ was Clemvio Hodge, manager of both tour and adventure operator Quest Experiences and lifestyle and travel guide What We Do In Anguilla.
Hodge recalled attending his first AHTA awards in 2015, the same year he took over What We Do In Anguilla from his father.
“Gilda Samuel, who was then the director, generously gave me a complimentary ticket, and that single gesture changed the way I saw my future in tourism,” he told Anguilla Focus
“I remember sitting in that room, surrounded by outstanding professionals and witnessing the incredible people being honoured… It inspired me deeply.”
He said that despite winning several acknowledgements locally and regionally, he is most proud of the AHTA award which brings his journey “full circle”.
“That initial act of kindness from Mrs Samuel planted a seed that has continued to motivate me, and this award strengthens my commitment to contributing even more to the island I love.”
Award winners
The other award categories and winners were as follows:
- Hotelier of the Year – Diego Stembert, GM at Four Seasons Resort
- Villa Member of the Year Award – Long Bay Villas by Malliouhana
- Restaurant of The Year Award – Es Oven Restaurant
- Allied Member of the Year Award – Richardson’s Car Rental Agency
- Employee of the Year Award – Glennica Gumbs
- Supervisor of the Year Award – Conlloyd Gumbs
- Anguilla Tourist Board Recognition Award – Dale Carty
- Pioneer Award – Donna Daniels-Banks
- Youth Leadership Award – Jaivaughn Richardson
- Community Service Award – Anguilla Enhancement Project
- Entertainer of the Year Award – Vere Musiq
- Airport Employee of the Year Award – Talitha Bazil Lawrence
- Seaport Employee of the Year Award – Ernesto Bazil
A spectacular evening
The evening began with a cocktail reception, after which attendees transitioned into the awards ceremony, where the achievements of outstanding industry professionals and organisations were honoured.
The event featured distinguished guests and dynamic speakers, including Anguilla’s infrastructure minister Jose Vanterpool, and premier of Nevis Mark Brantley who delivered the keynote address.
Master of ceremonies was Farrah Banks, who guided the evening’s proceedings, while awards were presented by AHTA board member Jade Reymond and tourism deputy director Chantelle Richardson.
AHTA’s CEO, Cherecia Lewis also delivered a special presentation honouring the past executive directors of the association for their invaluable contributions to the industry.
Throughout the ceremony, guests enjoyed a four-course dinner expertly prepared by renowned Anguillian chef George Reid and his talented culinary team.
The celebration, which marked the end of Tourism Week, was elevated by performances from DJ Sugar, 264 Island Boys, and a special musical selection from Rebecca ‘Queen B’ Webster.
