Willemstad – On Monday, June 19th 2017, CHATA held its second quarterly Membership Meeting of 2017 at the Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino. The membership meeting is a platform where CHATA invites speakers to present on current issues of importance to the business and tourism sector. During this meeting CHATA also takes the opportunity to provide a quick update on the performance of the sector and discuss CHATA Association Matters.
The Membership Meeting was characterized by an inspiring keynote speech by the Honorary Minister of Economic Development & Tourism, Mr. Steven Martina and the CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority Mrs. Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes. The Minister’s speech was about “Tourism moving Forward”. During his speech he committed to a public private structure for CTDF and leadership for the organization. Furthermore, he requested through CHATA the commitment of the hospitality industry to take initiatives and invest in the development of the sector. “If we all work together and do our part we look forward to a bright future for the tourism industry” according to the Minister of Economic Development.
Mrs. Ronella Tjin Asjoe–Croes provided the audience with an insight into the evolution of the Aruba Tourism Authority from a government agency to a unique independent legal entity within the public sphere. Mrs. Tjin Asjoe- Croes shared with the audience that the transformation of ATA has enabled the organization to become more flexible, effective and pro-active. Furthermore, their strong collaboration with the private sector has enabled Aruba to maintain its competitive edge within the Caribbean. Mrs. Ronella Tjin Asjoe- Croes emphasized that Curaçao should not strive to become like Aruba, but rather should learn from its peers and use the acquired knowledge to strengthen the unique capabilities of the island.
During this meeting CHATA provided an overview of tourism performance and the priorities of the board. According to the President & CEO, Miles Mercera, “In order to achieve sustainable tourism development we have to implement a structural change. Therefore, a key priority of the board is the execution of the MOU between CTB/CHATA, especially the restructuring of CTDF. In order to have true collaboration, partnership has to be reflected in all layers of our sector, starting from top to bottom. We have to rise up together and demand change”.
Furthermore, CHATA has provided an overview of new programs and projects for 2017. CHATA has partnered with Fundashon Alton Paas in September to organize an inclusion award to recognize the properties on island who are accessible for the disabled. In addition to this CHATA will also provide language courses in August and launch a project with Green Kidz to offer educational program with schools to educate our youth about the importance of sustainable tourism.
For more information on CHATA’s mission and member benefits, visit www.chata.org
