Meet Tamar Severin, CHTA Young Leader and Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at Secrets St. Lucia

(CHTA)- This next CHTA Young Leaders Spotlight features Tamar Severin of Saint Lucia, Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at Secrets St Lucia Resort and Spa – A Hyatt Inclusive Collection.

With more than 25 years of hospitality experience, Tamar’s journey from cocktail server to leadership reflects resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence and mentorship. Her dedication to service, continuous growth, and developing others embodies the spirit of the CHTA Young Leaders Forum.

Q: Can you share a little about your professional journey in hospitality?

With over 25 years of experience in hospitality, I have progressed from a cocktail server to senior leadership roles including Captain, Maître d’, Restaurant Supervisor, and Restaurant and Bar Manager. Through determination and continuous learning, I became a Certified Food and Beverage Executive and earned both a Diploma and an Executive Master’s in International Hotel Management. My journey reflects resilience, service excellence, and a deep commitment to developing high-performing teams.

Q: What motivated you to become part of the Young Leaders Forum?

My desire to grow as a leader while making a meaningful contribution to the industry inspired me to join. I saw the forum as an opportunity to expand my leadership skills, connect with emerging regional leaders, and mentor young professionals, particularly those who lacked early guidance in their careers.

Q: What sparked your passion for the tourism industry?

Hospitality found me at a defining moment in my life, where I discovered a passion for service and human connection. The opportunity to create meaningful guest experiences inspired me to build and sustain a long- term career in the industry.

Q: What are you hoping to take away from the Young Leaders Mentorship Programme?

I hope to strengthen my strategic leadership skills, expand my regional network, and gain insight into broader tourism issues. I also aim to contribute innovative ideas while growing as a mentor and advocate for young professionals.

Q: Where do you see your career progressing in the future?

My long-term goal is to transition into executive hotel leadership, with aspirations of becoming a general manager of a boutique resort. I am also committed to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals across Saint Lucia and the Caribbean.

Q: What gives you the most optimism about the future of Caribbean tourism?

I am excited about the region’s shift toward sustainability, wellness tourism, and authentic cultural experiences, as well as the emergence of young Caribbean leaders shaping a more inclusive and innovative future.

Q: In your view, what are some of the biggest opportunities and challenges facing the tourism industry today?

Investing in people is the greatest opportunity, particularly through training, mentorship, and leadership development. Key challenges include seasonality, talent development, maintaining service excellence, and the increasing threat of natural disasters.

Q: Tell us a fun fact about you.

I enjoy creating memorable experiences, from decorating and interior design to hosting meals and celebrating Saint Lucia’s vibrant carnival season.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals?

Stay humble, remain open to feedback, and embrace every opportunity to learn. Success in hospitality requires consistency, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Q: What’s one key lesson you’ve learned so far?

True leadership is not defined by title, but by the ability to serve, support, and uplift others. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone, staying open to learning, and leading with empathy.