Twenty employees who have worked in Jamaica’s tourism sector for 50 years or more have been recognised for their service. Officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Jamaica Tourist Board, led by Minister Edmund Bartlett, feted them during the recent Golden Tourism Day Awards.
“I would like to thank each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and high level of professionalism that have set the bar for hospitality standards and best practices today,” said Bartlett. “When the chips were down and our borders shut, you all made the decision to stick with tourism and returned to your passions like you never left. You are indeed invaluable in showing travellers what makes Jamaica and the Jamaican people the Heartbeat of the World.
On behalf of myself, our government and our entire country, sincerest thanks once again for playing such an important role in growing our tourism sector.”
Two of this year’s awardees who have worked in the sector for more than 60 years — Inez Scott and James “Jimmy” Wright — received special recognition.
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett with Golden Tourism Awards special recognition winners Inez Scott (top) and James “Jimmy” Wright
Scott devoted 61 years to the job that she loves, creating and selling unique Jamaican craft products. She makes bags and sews baskets that she often decorates with birds, banana trees and other eye-catching figures. She has been doing this since she was a teenager.
The name ‘Jimmy James’ Wright was synonymous with one of Montego Bay’s top hotels for decades. The passion Wright had for his job, regardless of his area of responsibility, remained with him throughout his 61 years in the tourist industry before he recently retired as a hotel’s Director of Operations.
As part of the recognition for their service, this year’s awardees were given an opportunity to enjoy the tourism product to which they have made such important contributions. Since many of them have not been able to have a vacation experience, they were each transported to an accommodation partner where they could relax and partake of all the available amenities through a specially curated itinerary.
For more information on Jamaica, please go to www.visitjamaica.com.
