Yes, smart partnerships can thrive in 2025

ron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17

In my last column, I posed the question: “Will Smart Partnerships thrive in 2025?”

 

I highlighted the Commonwealth Partnership for Technology Management (CPTM) and public-private alliances in Barbados as strong examples of successful collaborations. Just last week, a CPTM board member confidently assured me that the answer to my question is a resounding “Yes”.

 

Another noteworthy home-grown project is the 2007 film Hit for Six, produced by Alison Saunders-Franklyn, which beautifully exemplifies the spirit of partnership.

 

In Miami recently, Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Board of Directors, lauded and recognised members of the CTO Allied Members group for their individual efforts in partnership with the CTO to promote the region’s bread-and-butter industry.

 

Royal Caribbean, a key player in the Caribbean cruise tourism sector, understands the importance of nurturing relationships with other entities in the tourism ecosystem. As part of its partnership with the CTO, which represents 25 member countries, Royal Caribbean hosted more than 70 stakeholders aboard Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, at PortMiami. The visit explored impactful partnership opportunities to drive socio-economic growth throughout the Caribbean and within the cruise industry.

 

We were treated to a magnificent AquaTheater show where futuristic technology and extreme athletic skills came together to present Aqua Action!

 

Then there was a feature interview with Royal Caribbean’s President and CEO Michael Bayley, moderated by MPE’s President and CEO Bevan Springer, which revealed Bayley’s and the line’s secrets of partnership success.

 

We also learned that the newest Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, is set to launch in the summer of 2025. The visit concluded with a memorable dining experience, a highlight for many cruise enthusiasts.

 

The weekend transitioned into a special leadership awards event, where the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) honoured tourism, media, and communications professionals for their contributions. The celebration was made possible through strategic partnerships with sponsors and featured enticing resort stays as auction prizes.

 

The mission of CMEx is to support and develop the ability of the media, government, the travel and tourism industry and communities to consider the importance of tourism in sustainable development. CMEx partners with destinations, airlines, hotels and restaurants to facilitate its advocacy efforts and charitable giving. The CMEx board is considering raising the bar in 2025, with smart partnerships once again paving the way.

 

These examples can serve as catalysts for innovation and growth, demonstrating that smart partnerships are not just a concept but a proven formula for success. As we step into 2025, let’s embrace collaboration, creativity and shared vision to propel the Caribbean and its industries forward. With strong alliances and a commitment to excellence, we can shape a future where partnerships continue to thrive, delivering on the promise of sustainable development and prosperity across the region and beyond.

basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com