St. John’s Antigua and Barbuda, September 29, 2024 – The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) proudly announces the success of its Hospitality Job Fair, held on World Tourism Day 2024, celebrated under the theme of fostering peace and prosperity through tourism. The event provided a significant platform for over 600 eager job seekers to connect with 28 leading employers in the hospitality industry.

World Tourism Day underscores the critical role that tourism plays in global economic development, serving as a cornerstone for peace through employment creation. For Antigua and Barbuda, where tourism is the main economic driver, the ABHTA remains committed to providing opportunities for job seekers to enter the hospitality sector. The job fair, which ran from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, created an energetic environment of hope and growth for both employers and participants.

Craig Marshall, Chairman of the ABHTA, shared his excitement over the impressive turnout and the professionalism displayed by young job seekers. “I was particularly pleased to see a large number of young people, some as young as 19, who came well-prepared, eager to engage in meaningful conversations about their future in the hospitality industry. It’s heartening to witness their enthusiasm, and we are proud to provide this platform for them to start their careers,” he stated.

In addition to exploring job opportunities, job seekers had the chance to discuss educational paths in hospitality. Representatives from the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus were present to engage in discussions about educational programs and training opportunities. These interactions offered participants insight into how furthering their education could complement their career aspirations and enhance their potential in the industry.

Employers were equally impressed by the level of preparedness and the positive energy brought to the fair by attendees. Many highlighted how this generation of job seekers is poised to make a meaningful impact on the industry. The ABHTA is grateful to its members, financial and educational institutions for supporting this initiative and looks forward to working with its members to embrace young talent and harness their skills and creativity to drive the future of Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry.

With tourism serving as the engine of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, events like this showcase the potential for young people to contribute to peace and prosperity by engaging in meaningful work. The ABHTA remains committed to supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals and creating a robust workforce that will propel the industry forward.