Back in 1997, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation Foundation was established with an aim of fulfilling the charitable and educational needs of Caribbean people who wanted to pursue studies and careers in tourism. The CTO Foundation was registered in the state of New York and a Board of Directors consisting of volunteers got to work. In 1998, the foundation achieved its primary aim and the first set of scholarships and grants were awarded.
To this day, the foundation still supports nationals of CTO member countries in pursuing their studies in tourism, hospitality, and foreign language training. Because the Caribbean is heavily dependent on tourism, the foundation is investing in future leaders who will contribute to the development of Caribbean tourism.
CTO Scholarship Foundation
One of the CTO Foundation’s main projects is the Caribbean Tourism Organization Scholarship Foundation. This is the arm of the entity that provides scholarships and grants in areas that will develop skills to create a sustainable Caribbean and strong tourism industry. The scholarships on offer are:
- Master’s Program: US $25,000
- Bachelor’s Program: US $5,000
- Certificate Program: US $2,500
Funding for the scholarships comes from supporters who commit to investing and developing the region. Major sponsors who have contributed to the foundation over the years include airlines, cruise ship companies, travel magazine publishers, CTO chapters around the world and allied members.
Scholarship and Grant Awardees
When the CTO awarded its first set of scholarships in 1998, the first recipient was Acolla Lewis of Trinidad and Tobago. Her funds were used to pursue graduate studies in Hospitality and Tourism Education at the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom. That opportunity blossomed into an offer to pursue doctoral studies in Tourism Education.
Today Dr. Lewis-Cameron is Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies’ at. Augustine Campus and a Senior Lecturer, and a Director on the Board of Directors at the Tobago Hospitality & Tourism Institute.
To date the foundation has provided more than 80 scholarships and 130 grants to Caribbean nationals to the tune of over US $1 million.
The fund is on a quest to raise additional funding. This will enable the organisation to continue its service to Caribbean students and the regional tourism industry.
How to Support the CTO Scholarship Foundation
There are many ways that you can support the CTO Scholarship Foundation. You can:
- Become a Sponsor: Support the fund by donating as little as USD $50
- Purchase the Love the Music CD: The CD is a production of Ryff Music LLC and features music from Caribbean artistes
- Participate in Fundraising Activities: The foundation hosts fundraising activities such as silent auctions, raffles, cocktail functions, galas and artwork sales.
How to Apply for a Scholarship
To apply for a scholarship or grant, applicants must complete the online application. Please be mindful of the scholarship requirements for the specific scholarship or grant you are applying for. By completing the application, applicants agree to serve the Caribbean for a period of six months to two years. This will depend on the type of scholarship or grant.
Contact the CTO Foundation
Here are contact details for the CTO Foundation:
Address: 7th Floor, Baobab Tower, St Michael, Barbados
Telephone: 1-246-427-5242
Email: scoward@caribtourism.com
Website: The CTO Foundation
Image: Claude Piche via Unsplash
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