Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1524031
54 B M & T ••• July/August 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com sionals aspiring to make their mark in the field." Patricia Affonso-Dass, CHTA Past President and CEO and Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels Group Barbados, commended Brathwaite's dedication. "Brittany's achievement is a testament to her hard work, determination and leadership. As her colleague and mentor, I am immensely proud of her contributions to our organization and the wider tourism community," said Affonso-Dass. The Rising Star Award Caribbean is a key feature of CHRIS, as it shines a spotlight on the future of the tourism industry. This is the 14th year CHRIS and the International Society of Hospitality Consultants have collaborated to recognize young, talented leadership in the Caribbean region. Sanovnik Destang, CHTA President-elect and Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts in St. Lucia, who himself was a for- mer recipient of the Rising Star award, emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent in the industry. He stated, "Brittany Brathwaite's success underscores the immense potential of young professionals in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism. It is crucial that we continue to support and empower the next generation of leaders to drive inno- vation and growth." Respected executives from across the Caribbean reviewed a shortlist of outstanding candidates before voting on the winner. CHRIS, produced by Northstar Travel Group in association with The BHN Group, is one of the Caribbean's leading hotel and tourism investment conferences. For more information on CHTA, visit www.caribbeanhoteland - tourism.com. To inquire about membership, email membership@carib- beanhotelandtourism.com. CHTA UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY AI GUIDEBOOK TO ELEVATE CARIBBEAN TOURISM The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) announces the launch of its groundbreaking guidebook, "Artificial Intelli- gence Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism". This initiative, spearheaded by the CHTA Technology Task Force, marks a significant milestone as it is the first guidebook of its kind released by any regional Hotel and Tourism Association. Authored by Christus Gill with AI support, the guidebook represents a major advancement in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into the region's tourism sector, setting a new standard for innovation and tech- nological integration. Building upon the World Travel and Tourism Council's (WTTC) foundational guide, "Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology: Guide for Travel & Tourism Leaders", CHTA has craft- ed a comprehensive resource for industry stakeholders. The AI Guidebook provides essential insights and best practices tailored to the unique landscape of Caribbean tourism. It aims to illuminate the myriad benefits of AI adoption and addresses the challenges and con- cerns that might arise. Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts, Chair of the CHTA Technology Task Force, and the main driver behind this initiative, shared his enthusiasm about this innova- tive tool: "The AI Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism opens up a new realm of possibilities for our industry. By integrating AI technologies, we can significantly enhance guest experiences, improve operational efficiencies, and push the boundaries of what Caribbean tourism can achieve." The creation of the guidebook was a collaborative effort involving influential industry professionals from across the Caribbean who serve on the CHTA Technology Task Force, including: Chairperson Sanovnik Destang, St. Lucia Co-Chairperson Christus Gill, St. Lucia Yatsuri Marshall, St. Lucia Brian Broomes, Barbados Jamal Griffith, Barbados Jeremy Jones, Jamaica Lisa Hamilton, U.S. Virgin Islands Kjerstin Carlson, CHTA Liaison The guide explores Generative AI and other AI technologies, provid- ing tailored insights and strategies for the Caribbean hospitality and tourism sectors. It addresses challenges and ethical considerations, show- casing AI's potential to transform travel by combining innovation with creativity. The CHTA Technology Task Force also plans to release a fol- low-up guidebook featuring case studies of AI implementation in Caribbean hotels and tourism companies. For more information and to contribute to the evolution of Caribbean hospitality and tourism, visit www.caribbeanhoteland - tourism.com.