Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism, Cayman Islands

Rosa Harris is a towering figure in the Caribbean’s tourism sector. As Director of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Board of Directors, her impact has resonated within and without the region. Harris’ journey began with a pioneering step: she was the first recipient of the Cayman Islands Ministry of Tourism Scholarship. Her academic pursuits at Cornell University and The University of Manchester honed her skills, but it is her innate leadership qualities that truly define her career, which includes service on tourism-related boards and committees. In December, Harris’ years of dedication and visionary leadership style were recognized by the 2023 Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Award in Miami. During her acceptance speech, delivered virtually from Grand Cayman, Harris eloquently shared her philosophy on leadership. She emphasized the importance of creating paths for teamwork, highlighting her belief in collective effort. Her gratitude to her team and family underscored the collaborative nature of her achievements.