At the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards in Miami last December, Monique Hamaty-Simmonds, Executive Director of Tortuga Rum Company Ltd., was recognized for her role in building one of the Caribbean’s most iconic brands. A Jamaica-born leader rooted in the Cayman Islands, Hamaty-Simmonds has helped take Tortuga global, sharing the region’s flavors and heritage with millions through retail, cruise and international platforms.
Reflecting on her journey, she pointed to the vision of her late father, founder Robert Hamaty, whose early observations as an airline captain inspired the creation of the company and its now world-famous rum cakes. She credited the success of Tortuga to the dedication of its global team of more than 200 employees as well as the unwavering support of her family.
Emphasizing entrepreneurship, resilience and pride in Caribbean identity, Hamaty-Simmonds underscored the power of believing in an idea and bringing it to life while continuing to champion the region’s people, culture and flavors on the world stage.
Watch the video. 🎥
