Two pioneering women with more than three decades of service each were recognised for their longstanding contributions to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector at the 2025 Tourism Awards Gala.
The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment presented its Women in Tourism Special Awards to Annette Michael and Cleo Henry, celebrating their leadership, mentorship, and influence across the national industry.
The awards, introduced to highlight women who have shaped the standards of excellence in tourism, acknowledge individuals who have strengthened the workforce, supported national development, and inspired future generations.
A Career Built on ‘Country First’
Honouree Annette Michael was recognised for 33 years of service across multiple divisions of the Ministry of Tourism. Her work has spanned public relations, marketing, hospitality management and crisis communications — roles in which officials say she consistently demonstrated professionalism and national pride.
Beginning her career as a Tourism Field Officer, Ms Michael later became a Hospitality Management Officer, contributing to major industry initiatives and government-led development programmes. Her personal motto, “Country First,” was highlighted as a defining characteristic of her career.
Champion of Training and Workforce Development
The second awardee, Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP, was honoured for her regional impact on tourism education and workforce training. With a career also spanning 33 years, Ms Henry has influenced a wide range of tourism-related fields including hotel operations, culinary arts, tour guiding and professional certification.
She has served as a consultant, educator and trainer across the Caribbean, playing a key role in developing the skills of hospitality professionals. Officials praised her commitment to empowering others and her “enduring legacy of service and excellence.”
‘The Backbone of the Industry’
In its statement, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association described both recipients as “visionaries who uplift, inspire and transform the spaces they touch,” noting that their contributions reflect the resilience and dedication of women who have shaped the sector over several decades.
The Ministry said the awards are intended to highlight the vital role of women in building and sustaining Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism product, adding that the achievements of Ms Michael and Ms Henry will continue to influence the industry for years to come.
