Jamaica’s tourism industry presents a wealth of diverse and rewarding career paths that extend beyond conventional hospitality roles. For students and young professionals seeking a dynamic future in this sector, the recent Tourism Youth Expo and Career Fair, hosted by the Tourism Product Development Company Ltd. (TPDCo) in the picturesque parish of St. Elizabeth, offered invaluable insights and inspiration.
Exploring Opportunities at BREDs Sports Park & Academy
I recently had the privilege of attending this engaging event at BREDs Sports Park & Academy in Treasure Beach. Despite breezy conditions, the student attendees maintained their focus, clearly recognizing the potential the expo held for their future ambitions. The event fostered an atmosphere of excitement and opportunity within Jamaica’s tourism landscape, with sponsors such as: the Tourism Enhancement Fund, Jakes, Jamaica Tourist Board, Bluefields Organic Farm, Jamaica Centre of Tourism Innovation and Sandals South Coast.
Schools from all across the southern and western parishes turned out in force.
It was inspiring to see so many bright young minds from Lacovia High School, Newel High School, Bethlehem College, BB Coke High School, Nain High School, New Day High School, Maggotty High School, May Day High School. As students were eager to learn about where a career in tourism might take them.
Video of the Expo
Engaging Presentations and Inspiring Speakers
Thanks to the MC work of Marline Stephenson Dalley from TPDCo, the audience stayed captivated throughout the day. “We have been staging this Youth Expo for a couple of years, in prior years we were in Ocho Rios, Negril, Montego Bay and Portland. We want all students across the island to get exposure to the wonderful opportunities that exist in the tourism sector,” stated Dalley.
Speakers like TPDCo Executive Director, Wade Mars, delivered passionate keynotes encouraging students to pursue the many dynamic opportunities within the tourism industry.
Sharing a similar sentiment was Jason Henzell, owner of Jakes and chairman of BRED’s Treasure Beach Foundation.
Students even got a taste of hands-on cultural sessions, with Phillip Supersad’s drumming and pottery making demonstrations showcasing the creative side of tourism experiences. However, one of the highlights was undoubtedly Myrna Ellis-Medina’s presentation on the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU). Her insights, and the surprise appearance of a successful CMU graduate from St. Elizabeth, left a lasting impression on the students.
Photo Gallery Below
Delicious Food and Positive Vibes
When it was time for lunch, Jakes went above and beyond with delicious meals for everyone. Students and teachers enjoyed a much-needed break, savouring their food in the company of friends on the beautiful grounds of BREDs Sports Park. It was also heartwarming to witness how polite and respectful the students were.
Despite some post-lunch fatigue, energy levels soared again thanks to an impromptu dance competition led by the Sandals entertainment team! The students were more than happy to strut their stuff and recharge their excitement for the afternoon sessions.
Takeaway
The Tourism Youth Expo and Career Fair was a resounding success. As BB Coke guidance counsellor, Raoul Chambers, noted, “This was an excellent event for the students, because they got a chance to interact with so many people in the tourism field. I know that they are going home with a renewed mindset.”
If you’re looking to break into this vibrant industry, be sure to keep an eye out for similar events hosted by TPDCo on KareemsQuest.com – your source for exploring Jamaica’s hidden gems.
