Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Appoints Young Leaders to Board of Directors

Introduction to the New Era of Leadership

In a bold step toward generational inclusion and long-term sustainability, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has appointed two rising stars from its Young Leaders Program to its Board of Directors for the 2025–2027 term. The appointments mark a significant milestone in the association’s push to integrate young professionals into high-level leadership roles.

New Appointments to the Board of Directors

Yatsuri “Sue” Marshall, General Manager of Bay Gardens Marina Haven in Saint Lucia, and Mikael Doumeng, Director of Digital Marketing at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands, will serve on the CHTA Board following a formal nomination process. Doumeng will also sit on the Executive Committee, representing the Young Leaders Program—an initiative designed to empower emerging talent and amplify new voices in the Caribbean hospitality space.

Reaction from CHTA CEO

“These appointments represent more than a title—they signify action,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of CHTA. “We are realizing our commitment to give emerging leaders a voice at the decision-making table. We’re proud to support the leadership journeys of Yatsuri and Mikael and are confident they’ll bring valuable perspective, passion, and innovation to CHTA.”

Background and Context

By-Law Changes and the Young Leaders Program

The move comes on the heels of by-law changes passed in January 2025 during a Special Meeting, which created official pathways for young professionals to contribute to strategic discussions within CHTA. The Young Leaders Program, launched to foster future-ready leadership, also aims to build stronger regional networks and inject fresh thinking into the industry.

Importance of Emerging Professionals

“Our industry’s long-term sustainability relies on the energy, innovation, and perspective of emerging professionals,” said Sanovnik Destang, CHTA President. “By opening new pathways to leadership through the Young Leaders Program, we’re not only investing in CHTA’s future, but also reinforcing the strength and continuity of Caribbean tourism as a whole.”

Conclusion

With these appointments, CHTA is not only honoring its promise to support the professional growth of young talent but is also setting a precedent for meaningful youth participation across the region’s hotel and tourism landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Young Leaders Program?

The Young Leaders Program is an initiative designed to empower emerging talent and amplify new voices in the Caribbean hospitality space.

Who are the new appointments to the CHTA Board of Directors?

Yatsuri “Sue” Marshall and Mikael Doumeng are the two rising stars from the Young Leaders Program appointed to the CHTA Board of Directors for the 2025–2027 term.

What is the significance of these appointments?

These appointments mark a significant milestone in the association’s push to integrate young professionals into high-level leadership roles and set a precedent for meaningful youth participation across the region’s hotel and tourism landscape.