SCOTCH PLAINS, New Jersey, Oct.11, 2024 — The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) has announced the first round of honorees for the 2024 CMEx Leadership Awards and Fundraiser. Among the distinguished recipients are Thea LaFond, Olympic gold medalist in the triple-jump from Dominica; Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism in The Bahamas; and Dr. Lisa Indar, Ad Interim Executive Director of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
The prestigious awards will be presented on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Miami, celebrating individuals whose achievements and contributions have significantly impacted Caribbean tourism.
The initial round of honorees includes:
- Thea LaFond, 2024 Olympic Champion (Dominica) in the triple jump
- Latia Duncombe, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation
- Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, former Deputy Director General of Tourism, Bahamas; former CEO, St. Kitts Tourism Authority
- Kashmie Ali, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Sailrock South Caicos
- Ambassador Victor Fernandes, Veteran Caribbean Broadcaster and Barbados Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States
- Gloria and Solomon Herbert, Co-founders of Black Meetings & Tourism magazine
- Dr. Lisa Indar, Ad Interim Executive Director, Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)
- Laura Dowrich-Phillips, Caribbean journalist and Public Relations Manager, Experience Turks and Caicos
- Marc Melville, CEO, Chukka Caribbean Adventure
CMEx, a nonprofit organization, is committed to building the capacity of the media, government, the travel and tourism industry, and local communities to ensure the Caribbean continues to reap the benefits of tourism while protecting its people and the environment. Funds raised during the event will support educational initiatives focused on empowering Caribbean youth and tourism professionals.
“These honorees embody the spirit of leadership and excellence that drives the Caribbean forward,” said Bevan Springer, President of CMEx. “Their contributions, whether in sports, media or tourism, have left an indelible mark on the region, and we are proud to recognize their remarkable achievements. We look forward to celebrating their impact while supporting the next generation of Caribbean leaders.”
The luncheon promises to be a celebration of leadership, resilience, and a unified vision for a thriving CaribbeaFor tickets and further information, visit cmexmedia.org.
About Caribbean Media Exchange, Inc.
Caribbean Media Exchange, Inc. (CMEx) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. CMEx’s mission is to support and develop the ability of the media, government, the travel and tourism industry and communities to consider the importance of tourism in sustainable development, while lending a hand to the communities involved by sharing relevant expertise, financial and in-kind assistance. For more information, visit www.cmexmedia.org.
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