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Sandals Resorts Barbados Celebrates Excellence at 10th Annual Prestige Awards

By Deanzer Roberts

The Sandals Resorts Barbados 10th Annual Prestige Awards was a night of celebration, honouring the remarkable contributions of its employees to the tourism and hospitality sector. Held under the theme “Mad in Love with Your Work in Tourism,” the prestigious event underscored the unwavering dedication of Sandals team members who continue to enhance the island’s reputation as a world-class destination.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, the Hon. G.P. Ian Gooding-Edghill, commended the awardees for their commitment to excellence. “A superb hotel is not merely a place to sleep; it is an experience that endures long after departure,” he stated, emphasizing the critical role that hospitality professionals play in creating memorable guest experiences. He further applauded Sandals Resorts for its dedication to elevating Barbados’ tourism industry and positioning the island as a premier travel destination.

Sandals Barbados Diamond Talent winner Dwayne Phillips (R) accepting his award from Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Santia Bradshaw and Managing Director of the Sandals Eastern Caribbean Region Winston Anderson

Sandals Resorts International first made its mark in Barbados in 2015 with the opening of Sandals Barbados, later expanding with the addition of Sandals Royal Barbados. Now, in an exciting new chapter for the industry, Minister Gooding-Edghill announced the groundbreaking of the state-of-the-art Sandals Beaches Resort on the West Coast. Expected to generate approximately 3,500 jobs, this landmark development at the former Heywoods/Almond Resort site is the largest private investment in Barbados’ history.

*Human Resources Manager Mrs. Kim Henry Charles (L) presents Janelle Hinds with her Pace Setter Award*

“The introduction of this new family-friendly resort aligns perfectly with our strategic tourism goals,” Minister Gooding-Edghill explained. “While Barbados is renowned for its stunning beaches and rich culture, we recognize the need to expand our offerings to cater to families. This resort will provide an immersive and inclusive experience for both adults and children, reinforcing Barbados’ appeal as a diverse travel destination.”

*Sandals Foundation Sentinel Ryan Vaughn accepts his prize from Assistant Communications Manager Stacia Brathwaite.*

The Minister also highlighted Sandals Resorts’ impact beyond tourism, noting its role in economic growth, skills training, and sustainable development. He praised the Sandals Foundation’s initiatives in environmental conservation, education, and community outreach, all of which contribute to the betterment of Barbados.

As the awards ceremony celebrated outstanding employees, Minister Gooding-Edghill encouraged them to continue striving for excellence, citing the event as a testament to their hard work and passion. He also expressed optimism for their future, hoping to see many of the night’s winners recognized at the 2025 Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) Awards.

Annual Prestige Winners 2025
Award	Names
All Rounder Award	Kerri-Ann Cumberbatch
Circle of Joy Award	Kerry-Anne Grimes
Platinum Team Member	Gloria Chapman
Diamond Team Member	Dwayne Phillips
Heart of House	Ashley Jones
MVP Award (Manager of the Month)	Symantha Moaze
Mover and Shaker	Raheem Bobb
Sandals Foundation Sentinel	Ryan Vaughan
Sandals EarthGuard	Pedro Ochoa Gonzalez
Legendary	Hidie Phillip-Bovell
Pace Setter	Jennelle Hinds
Founders Circle	Sheldon Squires
A Team Award (Plaque)	LANDSCAPING
People’s Choice	Richard Precod
Standing Ovation (FC’s Award)	Dion Williams
Money Maker Award	Haldaine Greaves Jnr.

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EBC Officers Conducting Verification Of Addresses Exercise

The public is advised that Registering Officers from the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) are in the field conducting a verification exercise to confirm the address of each registrant. This activity is in accordance with the Representation of the People Act Cap 12, Section 12.

EBC Registering Officers will be wearing the department’s branded T-shirts with the official ID prominently displayed as they visit residents in districts across the island.

Householders are encouraged to cooperate with the Registering Officers and secure their pets or animals during the visit. (PR/GIS)

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Police Service Tips For A Safe Bank Holiday Weekend

As persons prepare to attend various events over this extended weekend, Crime Prevention Officer with The Barbados Police Service, Inspector Roger Babb, is encouraging them to “stay in control” as they enjoy themselves.

Inspector Babb reminds members of the public that drinking alcohol impairs their ability to make good decisions, and drinking and driving may result in accidents that can be fatal.

The Crime Prevention Officer shared these useful tips:

Do not feel pressured to drink alcohol; it is okay to say no.
Do not drink and drive, always have a sober designated driver.
If you drink, do so in moderation and never leave your drink unattended.
Do not let anyone bring a drink for you.
To avoid having your drinks spiked, buy your own drinks, and watch the bartender make or open them.
If you think your drink was tampered with, let someone know and seek medical attention.
Be cautious with strangers and do not accept drinks from them.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Never mix alcohol with other drugs.
PR/GIS

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SANDALS BARBADOS RECEIVES (CARPHA) AWARD

Sandals Barbados is the proud recipient of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Healthier Safer Tourism (HST) award.

The presentation was made recently at the Ministry of Health and Wellness office located in the Frank Walcott Building, St. Michael, Barbados.

Accepting the award for the Luxury Included Resort was General Manager Bruno Couesnon.

In his brief remarks Couesnon thanked every one of the team members who contributed to the resort’s recent accolade.

“It’s always nice to win awards; but it takes a team effort to achieve the results for which we are being recognized, today. The health and safety of our guests and team members are important to us and it is great to be selected and celebrated by CARPHA for doing our part and succeeding,” said Couesnon.

Executive Director of CARPHA Dr. Lisa Indar commended the hotel for achieving this internationally recognized award and praised its commitment to health and safety procedures.

“The 2019 Covid pandemic led to global shut down of tourism but it also demonstrated the resilience of the Caribbean by being able to bounce back. Part of that bouncing back was to be able to create a healthier and safer tourism experience and the reason you are here today is by being part of the tourism health programme and implementing proactive measures,” said Dr. Indar.

Some of the benefits of this award include being regionally and internationally recognized for healthier safer tourism endorsed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO); the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The award is the only traveler’s health award where compliance is assessed – it is measurable and verifiable, ensuring the safety of the tourist facility, staff and guests. It also gives a comparative, marketing advantage and gives value to the quality of service.(PR)

CAPTION: Sandals Barbados General Manager General Manager Bruno Couesnon (L) accepting the CARPHA award from Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George