JN LOUIS MATHURIN DOUBLES UP AT THE GIMIES
The second edition of the GIMIES was a whirlwind affair which celebrated unsung heroes in the tourism industry. Conceptualised and presented by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association and Tourism Enhancement Fund, the GIMIES brought out the best of the industry.
Minister for Tourism Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire presents the People’s Choice GIMIE to Mathurin.
One of the most intriguing awards of the event was the People’s Choice. After a national nomination process, Jn Louis Mathurin, founder and tour guide at Father Nature Adventures walked away with the coveted People’s Choice Award. He outvoted the top nominees in the online competition, including Kendal Montoute, Owner/Taxi Driver of Kendal’s Taxi Services and Sherma Peter, Pastry Chef at Jade Mountain Resorts. This award allowed the public to choose who they believed was most deserving of recognition within the industry, and also showcased the many hardworking individuals who earned their spot on the top as a result of their work ethic and commitment to making Saint Lucia a world class destination.
Other candidates who participated in the online competition include:
- Nehemiah Charles, Taxi Driver/Owner of Hot Spot Taxi
- Emmanuel Alexander, Independent Tour Guide
- Jasmine Kouly, Owner/Chef/Tour Guide of Lucian Food Tours
- Petra Mason, Tour Guide at Foster, and Ince Cruise Services
- Ophelia Cherubin, Butler at The Landings Resort & Spa
- Vanesta Clifford, Tour Operator at Sea Spray Cruises
- Bebiana Mangal, Marketing Officer at Rabot Estate Hotel
Father Nature Adventure was also honoured with another GIMIE, the Tour Guide of the Year Award, an accolade he eagerly wanted. According to Mr Mathurin,‘I am over the moon to be named the GIMIES People’s Choice as this is a testament to my hard work being seen beyond my circle, and my achievements acknowledged on a wider scale. This I am truly humbled and grateful for. However, being bestowed the title of Tour Guide Operator of the Year 2023 is transcending. It proves that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it, and for this prestigious award, I am truly immensely thankful.’
SLTA Chairman Thaddeus Antonie handing the GIMIE to Jn Louis Mathurin of Father Nature Adventures.
As a family-run business and what started as a small enterprise, Father Nature Adventures has curated unique experiences to accommodate a niche market. Such unsung heroes within the tourism industry are now being highlighted for their selfless work and world-class hospitality, which continues to contribute to Saint Lucia’s reputation as a must-see destination.
As he reflected on the event and offered congratulatory remarks to all nominees, the President of the SLHTA, Mr. Paul Collymore added,
“We are elated to announce the remarkable collaboration with the Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association and the Tourism Enhancement Fund, the Ministry of Tourism and Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, dedicated to honouring the unsung heroes of hospitality and tourism. The recent recognition event at the GIMIES stands as a testament to excellence, leaving an indelible mark on nominees, finalists, and winners alike. This event not only celebrated achievements but also set an inspirational standard for our staff and businesses to aspire toward. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all involved in this monumental endeavour.”
The second edition of the GIMIES has attracted support from various corporate partners who conduct business with many of the nominees and were eager to support this national initiative. These partners include:
Gold Star Partner – Taiwan along with Ultra-Premium Partners Flow St. Lucia, Courts Ready Finance, Courts Business Solutions, Heineken Saint Lucia, Piton Beer and Caribbean Metals.
Premium Partners – Bank of Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia Electricity Services, Republic Bank Ltd, Digicel St Lucia, Heineken Saint Lucia, 1st National Bank and Barbay Ltd.
Supporting Partners – UWI Global Campus and Alliance Francais, Harry Edwards Jewelers, Bel Jou Hotel, Fond Doux Resort, Calabash Cove St Lucia, Ti Kaye Resort, Landing Resort & Spa, Anse Chastanet Resort, Jade Mountain, Baron Foods, Sugar Beach – A Viceroy Resort and Sea Spray.
For more information on the GIMIES, visit www.stlucia.org/gimies or Facebook/Instagram @the GIMIES.
Tags
