News Americas, New York, NY, December 8, 2024: Dominica-born Olympic gold medalist and triple jump champion Thea LaFond was among a distinguished group of Caribbean nationals recognized at the 2024 Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards and fundraiser on sunday. The event, held at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Miami, celebrated achievements in tourism, media and sustainable development.
LaFond, who made history this year by securing Dominica’s first Olympic medal with her triple jump gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics, was praised for her monumental achievement. Her victory was followed by another historic victory at the 2024 World Indoor Championships, where she was crowned World Indoor Triple Jump Champion. Her incredible success has cemented her legacy as one of the Caribbean’s most inspirational athletes.
Honoring excellence in the Caribbean
The CMEx Leadership Awards recognized a range of outstanding contributors from across the Caribbean, highlighting the region’s resilience and innovation in tourism and sustainability. Powered by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, the event was supported by CMEx Founder and President, Marketplace Excellence, Bevan Springer and Vanessa James, CEO of Vanessa James Media, (VJMedia).
Other 2024 honorees included leaders in tourism, media and community development, such as:
- Kashmie Ali – VP of Sales and Marketing, Sailrock South Caicos
- Tracy Berkeley – CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority
- Laura Dowrich-Phillips – Caribbean Journalist and PR Manager, Turks and Caicos Experience
- Latia Duncombe – Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
- Ambassador Victor Fernandes – Veteran Broadcaster and Ambassador of Barbados to the US and the OAS
- Gloria and Solomon Herbert – Co-founders, Black Meetings & Tourism magazine
- Dr. Lisa Indar – Interim Executive Director, Caribbean Public Health Agency, (CARPHA)
- Eroline and Lyton Lamontagne – Owners, Fond Doux Eco Resort, St. Lucia
- Vanessa Ledesma – CEO, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, (CHTA)
- Marie McKenzie – SVP of Government & Destination Affairs, Carnival Corporation & plc.
- Marc Melville – CEO, Chukka Caribbean Adventures
- Jennifer Nugent-Hill – Director of Government and Community Affairs, Tropical Transport
- Simon Suarez – VP, Puntacana Group
- Ellison “Tommy” Thompson – Former Deputy Director General of Tourism, Bahamas
- Christine Valls – Director of Sales for Latin America and the Caribbean, United Airlines
A celebration of Caribbean sustainability
The CMEx Awards highlighted the importance of sustainable tourism and the interconnectedness of media, government and the travel industry in driving Caribbean development. CMEx, founded in 2001, has become a catalyst for positive change, fostering collaboration and supporting sustainable projects that enrich local communities. “Today, we celebrate your achievements and contributions, as do we
look to the future,” Springer said. “We envision a thriving Caribbean where tourism remains a powerful force for positive change, driving growth, protecting our natural beauty and preserving our cultural heritage. We are proud to work alongside each of you in this mission and are deeply grateful for your continued support and partnership.”
Building on the legacy of CMEx
Over the years, CMEx has sharpened the skills of regional journalists, created training opportunities and supported the implementation of sustainable tourism projects. These efforts have cemented CMEx’s role as a bridge between the public and private sectors, promoting tourism that balances economic growth with environmental preservation and community well-being.
CMEx’s mission is to highlight the role of tourism in sustainable development through collaboration between media, government and industry stakeholders. By raising awareness, providing training and supporting impactful projects, CMEx continues to elevate Caribbean communities and strengthen the region’s global presence.
CMEx says it remains committed to making a meaningful impact throughout the Caribbean by empowering youth and communities through tourism, education and strategic partnerships. Our mission focuses on fostering sustainable career paths in tourism, expanding access to educational opportunities, and collaborating with organizations committed to advancing sustainable tourism practices.
