Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands—Women from across the Caribbean tourism sector and the wider diaspora gathered in the Turks and Caicos Islands from November 13th to 16th for the inaugural Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat.

The retreat is the vision of Stacy Cox, CEO of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA). What began during the pandemic as a virtual platform to honour the women driving the industry has now evolved into an in-person experience designed to build community, deepen professional connections, and create space for honest storytelling and sisterhood.

Women from Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Barbados, Saint Lucia, the US Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, Jamaica and Toronto answered the call, underscoring the regional significance of the gathering.

“My heart is full. This Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat was meant to provide a space for women to take off their masks, discuss issues that are very real in our lives, be vulnerable while drawing strength from our shared experiences and, most importantly, build a sisterhood. I believe we achieved all of that and more, and I am deeply grateful to every woman who saw the value in this mission and attended,” said Cox.

The weekend’s activities were curated to reflect that mission. The retreat opened with a welcome reception at Beaches Turks and Caicos attended by Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Minister of Tourism Zhavargo Jolly, Permanent Secretary Wesley Clerveaux and Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, Paul Pennicook.

On Friday, keynote speaker Lisa Hanna, former Jamaican MP, joined retreat delegates on school outreach visits, including a stop at the Special Needs Association Providenciales (SNAP) Centre. The day closed with a sunset boat tour along world-famous Grace Bay, giving attendees a chance to unwind.

Saturday’s signature event, the Brunch and Conversation at The Shore Club, featured panels exploring work/life balance, navigating male-dominated spaces, leadership presence, supporting other women, and managing the pressures that come with public and private roles.

Lisa Hanna delivered the weekend’s standout address, urging women to prepare for the age of AI, embrace reinvention, and stay alert to geopolitical shifts. She reminded attendees that women’s ability to blend passion with pragmatism makes their contributions essential at decision-making tables across the region.

At the close of her session, Hanna was presented with a cheque to support relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.

The Women in Tourism Caribbean Retreat will return to the Turks and Caicos Islands in November 2026.