Connect Barbados 2026 concluded with its highest buyer participation on record, following a week of industry meetings and networking held from June 22 to 26 under the theme Rooted in Culture, Powered by Partnership.

The event closed with an awards ceremony at Harbour Lights Barbados’ Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show in Carlisle Bay.

The Barbados Tourism Marketing presented 20 awards to individuals and organisations in the tourism, media, and travel sectors for their contributions to promoting Barbados.

The ceremony featured cultural performances, including dancers, fire breathers, masqueraders, and stilt walkers, highlighting the island’s hospitality and creative traditions.

2026 Connect Barbados Award Recipients

• Damian Hall – Best Festival/Event Story
• Jelle De Bont – Best Sports Story
• Janiece Campbell – Best Heritage Story
• Clarissa Hyman – Best Culinary Story
• Corinne Pierre Louis – Best Romance Story
• Hakeem Thompson – Best Destination Photo
• Pearson Bowen & Mornin’ Barbados Team, CBC TV 8 – Contribution to Barbados’ Tourism Sector
• Ruel Forde & Mornin’ Barbados Team, CBC TV 8 – Contribution to Barbados’ Tourism Sector
• Classic Vacations – Largest Increase in Room Nights
• Sonnenklar – Largest Increase in Bookings
• Angela Prinssen – Top Producing Agent by Value
• Kemberly Maharaj – Top Producing Agent by Bookings
• TUI Marella – Long-standing Homeporting Cruise Line
• Travel Counsellors – Top Performer Based on Engagement and Innovation 2025
• Newton Bastiampillai – Top Performer Based on Engagement and Innovation Winter 2025-2026
• O2 Beach Club & Spa – Local Partner Appreciation Award (Hotel)
• UVA Barbados – Local Partner Appreciation Award
• Caribbean Airlines – 2026 Trade Award for Outstanding Organic Growth and Top Performance (Winter 2025-2026)
• Air Canada – 2026 Trade Award for Exceptional Growth and Performance (Winter 2025-2026)
• British Airways – 2026 Trade Award for Notable Growth and Performance (Winter 2025-2026)

During the ceremony, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill, addressed attendees, acknowledging the critical importance of tourism to the nation’s economy and expressing deep appreciation for all who promote and support Barbados.

“Thank you for all the hard work and the sterling contribution that you continue to make, as travel partners, as members of the media and as very kind supporters of Barbados.”

Cheryl Carter, BTMI Chief Operations Officer, also captured the spirit of the event, remarking, “As we gather for the final evening of Connect Barbados 2026, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude, pride and optimism. Over the past several days, we trust that we have created a space where relationships have been strengthened, new opportunities have emerged, and meaningful connections have been forged. She stressed that the event’s theme was more than a slogan as it reflected every meeting, conversation, shared meal and every new relationship formed throughout this week.

Carter extended thanks to sponsors and partners, including Hilton Barbados Resort as the host hotel, and Harbour Lights full name for hosting the unforgettable closing celebration. “This year, Connect Barbados welcomed 92 international buyers representing 83 companies, the strongest buyer participation in the event's history. Together with 111 local tourism partners and suppliers, you have helped create one of the most successful editions of Connect Barbados to date.” -TradeArabia News Service