Barbadian Tourism Leader Petra Roach Inducted into Inaugural CTO Hall of Fame at Caribbean Week New York

NEW YORK, NY – June 2026 – Accomplished Barbadian tourism executive Petra Roach has been inducted into the inaugural Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Hall of Fame during the Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards and Hall of Fame Ceremony held at the InterContinental New York Times Square as part of Caribbean Week in New York.

The Hall of Fame, established in 2026, recognises women whose leadership, innovation, and lasting contributions have helped shape Caribbean tourism and advance the region’s development.

Roach joins an esteemed group of inaugural inductees recognised for their impact on the industry and commitment to excellence: Karolin Troubetzkoy executive director of Anse chastanet and Jade Mountain; Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism, Cayman Islands; Valérie Damaseau, Commissioner of Tourism & Culture, Saint-Martin; Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism, St. Kitts & Nevis; and Beverly Nicholson-Doty, CEO of Figment Design.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful because it reflects the many mentors, colleagues, partners, and teams who have been part of my journey,” said Roach. “Tourism has the power to transform economies and improve lives, and I am grateful to have contributed to the growth and success of our region.”

With more than 25 years of leadership experience, Roach is widely regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most respected tourism professionals. As former CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, she led the destination through a period of record-breaking growth and international recognition. She also held several senior leadership positions within Barbados’ tourism sector, including Vice President – United Kingdom, Head of Global Markets, and Interim CEO.

Her Hall of Fame induction follows her recognition in 2024 as the first Director to be chosen as CTO”s Director of Tourism of the Year, further underscoring a career defined by strategic leadership, innovation, and measurable results.

Today, Roach serves as Director of Sales and Marketing at Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa, while continuing to advocate for tourism excellence, leadership development, and regional collaboration across the Caribbean.

(PR)