BVI and Saint Lucia shine at CTO’s Nex-Gen Tourism showcase

Published on June 15, 2026

The British Virgin Islands captured top honors at CTO’s 2026 Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase, held last week during Caribbean Week in New York.

Representing H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, Adrianne Thomas, Auri-Ana El Shabazz and Naomi Onwufuju presented an innovative Caribbean Blue & Green Economy Hub concept that connects marine restoration and land-based sustainability (from reefs to ridgelines) while turning tourism experiences into direct support for conservation, education and community development.

Built around the theme, “Innovative Tourism: Bridging Sectors for Sustainable Growth,” the proposal impressed judges with its innovation, practical impact and investment potential.

Congratulations to the winning BVI team as well as the outstanding participants from Saint Lucia and the Turks and Caicos Islands, whose creative ideas showcased the talent and vision of the Caribbean’s next generation of tourism leaders.