The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is actively bolstering its commitment to sustainable tourism development. A crucial step in this endeavor is the recent appointment of a distinguished sustainability expert to a key leadership position. This strategic move aligns with the organization's overarching vision to cultivate a more robust, equitable, and ecologically mindful tourism industry across the entire Caribbean region. This reflects a growing global awareness of environmental imperatives and evolving traveler preferences, positioning the Caribbean at the forefront of responsible tourism initiatives.

Strategic Appointment Bolsters Sustainable Tourism Initiatives in the Caribbean

In a significant development for the regional tourism landscape, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) announced on July 27, 2025, the appointment of Trinidadian sustainability visionary, Narendra Ramgulam, as its new Deputy Director of Sustainable Tourism. This newly established leadership role is a cornerstone of the CTO's progressive 'Reimagine Plan,' designed to foster a more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism sector throughout the vibrant Caribbean islands.

The CTO Board of Directors officially approved Ramgulam's appointment, signifying a pivotal moment in the organization's enduring pursuit of sustainable and regenerative tourism development. Dona Regis-Prosper, the esteemed CTO Secretary-General, warmly welcomed Ramgulam, acknowledging his invaluable contributions since joining the CTO in 2023 as a Sustainable Tourism Consultant. She expressed unwavering confidence that his profound expertise, innovative spirit, and deep-seated passion for sustainability will undoubtedly elevate the organization's impactful work across the entire region.

In his expanded capacity, Ramgulam will be based at the CTO Headquarters in Bridgetown, Barbados, and is set to officially commence his duties in mid-August. His comprehensive responsibilities will encompass spearheading the development and meticulous implementation of regional sustainability programs, meticulously crafting policy guidelines, actively promoting best practices, and diligently assessing the tangible impact of these vital efforts across the diverse Caribbean nations. Prior to his current role, Ramgulam distinguished himself as the Director of Tourism Product Development and Destination Management at the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited. During his tenure, he was widely lauded for his leadership in numerous sustainability-focused initiatives that garnered significant international recognition, and his instrumental role in enhancing Tobago's reputation as a secure and adaptable destination amidst the global challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. A highly respected academic, Ramgulam boasts an impressive portfolio of 13 published research papers and has held senior academic positions at the prestigious University of the West Indies' St. Augustine campus.

This appointment underscores the CTO's unwavering dedication to establishing the Caribbean as a global leader in sustainable tourism, a commitment that has become increasingly critical given escalating climate concerns and dynamic shifts in global travel patterns.

This strategic leadership appointment within the Caribbean Tourism Organization sends a clear and compelling message: the future of tourism in the region is intrinsically linked to its sustainability. From a journalist's perspective, this move reflects a commendable foresight and a proactive stance in an era where environmental stewardship and responsible travel are no longer niche considerations but fundamental pillars of a thriving industry. It highlights a conscious effort to balance economic prosperity with ecological preservation, ensuring that the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Caribbean can be enjoyed for generations to come. This initiative serves as an inspiring blueprint for other global tourism destinations, demonstrating that strategic planning and dedicated leadership can pave the way for a more harmonious coexistence between human activity and the delicate ecosystems of our planet.