On November 27, 2024, the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the prestigious Sandals Royal Curaçao, a CHATA member. The event welcomed over 100 attendees and focused on themes of sustainable growth, vision, strategy, and collaboration.
The AGM served as a platform for members to reflect on the achievements of the past year and chart the course for the future. In her opening remarks, CHATA CEO Anuschka Cova emphasized the importance of working together efficiently to capitalize on Curaçao’s opportunities, stating, “There is a huge opportunity for Curaçao, and we should use this momentum in a good and efficient manner, working together.”
Key Highlights of the AGM
The meeting, moderated by Mr. Daniel Corsen, featured presentations and updates from CHATA and distinguished guest speakers, including Minister of Finance Javier Silvania, Ms. Christine Campagnard from the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), Mr. Miles B. Mercera from Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB), and Ms. Veroesjka de Windt from Bonaire Hospitality and Tourism Association (BONHATA).
Chairwoman Mimi presented the Board Report of 2023 and shared her enthusiasm for the future, stating: “These are exciting times for the hospitality and tourism sector in Curaçao. We are enjoying record demand, great investments, and double-digit growth. CHATA is proud to be partnering with MEO and CTB to develop a strategy for the island to grow sustainably toward a prosperous future. The new board is excited to be part of this journey.”
CEO Anuschka Cova gave a thorough update on CHATA’s activities in 2024 and plans for 2025, highlighting the seven themes agreed upon in the National Decree in September. She emphasized that collaboration remains critical with a focus on sustainable growth. She also highlighted key achievements such as:
- Strengthening relationships with the government.
- Reestablishing task forces to address sector priorities.
- Fortifying the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the CTB.
- Successfully organizing the CHATA Job Fair.
Minister Silvania announced the introduction of an airport entrance fee and its allocation, stating: “We are paving the way for a tourism industry that is not only competitive and profitable but also sustainable and respectful of our unique natural resources.”
A key outcome of the meeting was the election of the New CHATA Board of Directors. During the voting process, overseen by Mr. Thomas Aardenburg from SBA Advocaten, TUI was elected as the Allied Member representative, while the remaining elected members represent the Accommodation category.
The new board members are:
- Antoin Klein Hofmeijer (TUI – Allied Member)
- Averilette Francis (Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Biray Ogut (Corendon Hotels and Resorts – Accommodation Member)
- Jaime Osma (Kontiki Beach Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Jeffrey Speelman (Sandals Royal Curaçao – Accommodation Member)
- Thomas van Balveren (Hyatt Inclusive Collection CCR/PBC/FL Holding – Accommodation Member)
Additionally, the members approved CHATA’s new articles of association, bylaws, budget, financials and Annual Report 2023, during the meeting.
Farewell to Outgoing Board Members: CHATA expressed heartfelt gratitude to its outgoing board members, including Rolf Sprecher and Maylin Trenidad, for their years of dedication and significant contributions. Rolf Sprecher, a CHATA member for over 40 years, served in various board roles, including Treasurer, until 2023. Maylin Trenidad, a longstanding CHATA member, served as Secretary until her recent discharge.
CEO Anuschka Cova and Chairwoman Mimi Luttge, joined by the new board, honored Rolf and Maylin, stating that their commitment had played a vital role in CHATA’s success.
The New CHATA Board of Directors for 2024
- Antoin Klein Hofmeijer (TUI – Allied Member)
- Averilette Francis (Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Biray Ogut (Corendon Hotels and Resorts – Accommodation Member)
- Jaime Osma (Kontiki Beach Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Jeffrey Speelman (Sandals Royal Curaçao – Accommodation Member)
- Jonny Andersen (Curaçao Airport Partners – Allied Member)
- Mark Nooren (Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Mimi Luttge (LionsDive Beach Resort – Accommodation Member)
- Omar van der Dijs (Licores Maduro – Allied Member)
- Robbin Vogels (Avila Beach Hotel – Accommodation Member)
- Thomas van Balveren (Hyatt Inclusive Collection CCR/PBC/FL Holding – Accommodation Member)
Gratitude to Members and Sponsors
CHATA extends its sincere appreciation to its members for their ongoing support and commitment to the association and the tourism sector. Special thanks are also given to MCB for sponsoring the AGM, making the event a resounding success
