Carmelita Xavier honoured with GIMIES Lifetime Achievement Award 2023, expresses gratitude

Castries, Saint Lucia: Carmelita Xavier, the CEO of Solar Tours and Travel has been honoured with GIMIES Lifetime Achievement Award 2023. She received the award for her continuous efforts towards boosting the tourism sector from Minister of Tourism of Saint Lucia, Dr. Ernest Hilaire.

The second edition of the GIMIES Awards took place on 13th April 2024 and was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association and Tourism Enhancement Fund. These awards are presented to those unsung heroes who played a pivotal role in boosting the tourism sector of the nation and work every day to ensure the livelihoods which everyone enjoys. 

Carmelita Xavier began her career as a flight attendant in the 1970s and later contributed 15 years of her youth to LIAT. After that, she took over a decorated destination management company, Solar Tour and Travel, and elevated it to greater heights.

She has successfully expanded her business in the field of travel and tourism industry. She enhanced her tourism business by creating a strong foundation of My Kind of Travel which held her in creating an influential impact on the tourism industry. She is currently serving as the agent for UPS and Aeropost on the island and is performing her duties diligently.

She expressed her gratitude for being honoured with such a prestigious award. She stated that she is truly blessed to witness love and admiration from her friends, family members and colleagues within the industry. 

“I humbly accept this award on behalf of all the workers who tirelessly put Saint Lucia first in everything they do and make this destination memorable. Thank you for honouring me, I honour you,” stated Carmelita Xavier. 

Minister Hilaire stated that the tourism sector is the heartbeat of the island nation’s growth and prosperity and for that, he expressed gratitude to all the stalwarts who make Saint Lucia, a unique and vibrant destination.