Caribbean Tourism Organization Strengthens Sustainable Tourism Vision With New Appointment to Drive Regional Growth

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has expanded its sustainable tourism efforts by appointing Barbadian tourism and communications specialist Courtney-Diana Walker as its new Program Officer for Sustainable Tourism. The appointment strengthens the organisation’s ability to develop and deliver initiatives focused on sustainable and regenerative tourism growth throughout the Caribbean region.

Walker began her new role on 1 September, where she will work alongside CTO Deputy Director of Sustainable Tourism Narendra Ramgulam to support the execution of programmes and projects that align with the organisation’s long-term sustainability goals.

The new appointment forms part of the implementation of the CTO Reimagine Plan 2025–2027, which identifies Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism as one of five key strategic priorities shaping the organisation’s future direction. Through this focus area, CTO aims to build a stronger, more resilient and competitive tourism sector while ensuring that growth creates lasting value for Caribbean communities, local economies and people across the region.

“Courtney-Diana brings a valuable combination of regional perspective, academic grounding, communications expertise and a strong commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO secretary-general and CEO. “Her appointment strengthens our capacity to deliver on an important pillar of the Reimagine Plan as we work with our members and partners to advance tourism development that creates lasting economic, social and environmental value across the Caribbean.”

Walker brings a diverse professional background that combines sustainable tourism, cultural advancement, strategic communication, research, event management and stakeholder collaboration. Her work across government, private sector and institutional settings has provided her with extensive insight into the Caribbean’s evolving tourism industry, cultural ecosystem and destination development landscape.

She has earned a master’s degree in Cultural Studies from The University of the West Indies (UWI) and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Tourism and Sports Management at UWI Cave Hill, further strengthening her expertise in tourism strategy and development.

Throughout her professional journey, Walker has gained extensive experience working across multiple areas, including programme development, project coordination, strategic communications, research initiatives and collaboration with regional partners. Her diverse background reflects a strong ability to manage complex projects while supporting organisations in achieving long-term development goals.

She has played an active role in initiatives designed to strengthen the creative industries and tourism sector, helping to build stronger connections between communities, businesses and destination stakeholders. Her work has focused on developing strategies that encourage innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth within tourism-related fields.

Walker’s professional interests are closely connected with sustainable tourism development, inclusive destination planning and creating opportunities that benefit local communities. She believes tourism can serve as a powerful driver of economic progress while also supporting cultural preservation, social development and environmental responsibility.

Through her experience and commitment, Walker continues to contribute to efforts that make tourism more resilient, accessible and community-focused. Her expertise in partnerships, research and strategic planning supports initiatives aimed at creating meaningful and lasting benefits for destinations and the people who depend on tourism.

In her new position, Walker will play a key role in supporting the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) mission to build a stronger and more sustainable tourism sector across the region. Her responsibilities will focus on strengthening initiatives that encourage responsible travel, protect the Caribbean’s natural and cultural assets, and create long-term benefits for destinations and communities.

Walker will contribute to programmes aimed at improving destination development by helping Caribbean destinations adapt to changing traveller expectations and emerging tourism trends. The role will support efforts to enhance competitiveness, encourage innovation, and promote strategies that allow the region’s tourism industry to grow in a balanced and sustainable manner.

Her work will also align with broader initiatives designed to improve collaboration among Caribbean destinations and tourism stakeholders. By supporting shared goals and regional partnerships, Walker will help advance projects that strengthen the industry while ensuring tourism development remains inclusive and environmentally responsible.

The appointment reinforces the CTO’s commitment to its guiding vision of “Leading Sustainable Tourism – One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.” Through this approach, the organisation continues to focus on creating a unified pathway for sustainable tourism growth while highlighting the Caribbean as a leading global destination.