inTouch February 2024

AT A GLANCE

Early

AA

The

Sandals Grande Antigua

Cocktail

Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Sandals

SANDALS LA TOC

Independence Fever

At Sandals Regency La Toc in Saint Lucia, team members joyfully celebrated the island’s 45th Independence Day with enthusiasm and pride. Dressed in vibrant national colours, they have organised a series of festive activities to mark the occasion. Throughout the day, team members engaged in friendly competitions, games, and cultural performances that highlight the rich heritage of Saint Lucia. Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as everyone came together to commemorate this special milestone in the nation’s history. The spirit of unity and celebration was palpable, making this Independence Day a truly memorable and joyful occasion for all at Sandals Regency La Toc.

National Colours Day

Sandals Regency La Toc recently offered a wide range of fun sports activities to celebrate National Colours Day, which is part of Saint Lucia’s independence calendar of activities. On this special day, guests at the resort as well as team members participated in a variety of exciting sporting events that promote teamwork, friendly competition, and national pride. There were plenty of opportunities for guests to showcase their athleticism and spirit while wearing the vibrant national colours of Saint Lucia.

SANDALS DUNN’S RIVER

A Dunn’s Valentine’s

Sandals Dunn’s River recently indulged in a jubilant Valentine’s Day celebration, showering its cherished staff with an array of delightful treats including cuddly teddy bears, delectable candies, and an abundance of heartfelt affection!

Sandals Ochi has refurbished its tuck shop for team members, and gave it an exciting new name, “Stop A Gap”, to go with the new facilities. It is fully stocked with snacks and goodies for all to stop any gap. The team members were in high spirits at the grand reopening. Click the video below to see their ecstatic faces and fanfare.

OCHI REGION

‘Stop A Gap’ is now opened!

OCHI REGION

Valentine’s Safer Sex Health Fair

Beaches Ocho Rios (BOR) recently hosted a ‘Safer Sex Health Fair’ aimed at taking a holistic approach to employee welfare. Team members had all-day access to medical screening packages for HIV and syphilis, blood pressure and sugar, Pap smear and Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), visual screening, cholesterol, nutrition, and Body Mass Index testing. Team members came out in their numbers to participate in the event and learn about the best practices for maintaining a healthy mind and body. Kudos to Team BOR!

Beaches Ocho Rios serves up ‘rehydration’

At Beaches Ocho Rios, keeping team members hydrated is a priority. Managers on resort offer rehydration packages to team members daily, and our General Manager Mr Charles Blacher, relishes the opportunity service his team in this initiative.

Emergency First R esponse Training at Sandals Ochi

Supervisors at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort are undergoing training to become Emergency First Responders. Team members are responsible for welcoming guests who vacation at the resort and should take every precaution to ensure their safety. Sandals Ochi provides its personnel with the tools needed to be superheroes.

BOR leaders ‘trash’ littering

During an early-morning stroll recently, leaders at Beaches Ocho Rios picked up trash from several locations across the resort. They set an example for team members to follow by discouraging the practice of littering and actively being part of the resort’s culture of maintaining cleanliness.

Sandals Ochi’s inter-departmental Domino Tournament

Sandals Ochi Beach Resort recently hosted its 2024 Inter-Departmental Domino Tournament and it was a great success! The affair promoted synergy among team members. The one-day event had 16 teams scheduled to compete for the winning title. Knockout rounds built a sizzling suspense that was almost tangible, as the crowd stood still in silence anticipating one move after another.

It all came down to the Housekeeping and Stewarding departments, which were ironically women versus men. The game was heated from the beginning as both teams were steadily neck-and-neck to the end. The women made their statement after winning the men by two points. The Housekeeping team danced with much glee as all departments joined and celebrated the triumph.

SANDALS RESORTS INTERNATIONAL

One Love!

Team members based at our corporate offices in Kingston and Montego Bay were recently treated to a movie outing to see the iconic Jamaican film One Love, which has been breaking box office records since its release in theaters worldwide. The team received complimentary popcorn, drinks, giveaways and had an excellent cinematic experience.

Twenty-two graduate with fully funded Diploma in Hospitality Leadership

Twenty-two Sandals managers are now fully poised to change the game as advanced and innovative leaders, after being the first of some anticipated 500 team members to graduate from an immersive training initiative, earning them highly accredited Diplomas in Hospitality Leadership.

The programme, fully funded by the Sandals Corporate University (SCU) is offered in partnership with the Chaplin School of Hospitality

and Tourism, Florida International University (FIU) and Accelerating Leaders, an institution specializing in executive education programmes for successful service management.

This six-month programme, custom-designed for Sandals, incorporated a hybrid model with both face-to-face modules as well as online classes comprising of 16 interactive courses leveraging workshops, discussion groups, case studies and industry best-practices. Entry and mid-level

Coming together as one to commemorate a significant milestone are the graduates from the first cohort of the Diploma in Hospitality Leadership Programme; Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart and key personnel from the SCU, FIU and Accelerating Leaders.

managers are challenged to apply new knowledge, gain advanced skills and create positive behaviours as they prepare for increasing leadership responsibility. These managers are pinpointed to help champion the Sandals 2.0 vision of expansion and continuous achievement of excellence in the industry.

The recently held ceremony, hosted at Sandals Ochi Rios Beach Resort, was attended by the graduates and their families, members of the SCU advisory board, Sandals and Beaches executives and representatives from FIU and Accelerating Leaders.

In his opening remarks, Chairman of the advisory board of the SCU, Wayne Cummings, commended the graduates for sticking together and finishing strong. “Over these last several months, I know you’ve all had to go to work every day in your various operations, as well as attend classes, study and complete many assignments. The high standard that has been set for the other cohorts to come has truly been a marvel to behold,” he expressed.

The graduates were also applauded by the two main

developers of the leadership programme, Dr. Christopher Muller, founder of Accelerating Leaders and Dr. Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism, FIU. Dr. Muller in his address, emotionally stated how special it was to witness them graduate knowing that they now have greater clarity and insight to become better leaders. He ended by saying, “I also want to thank you for the honour of serving these past few months. Your enthusiasm in each lesson, your riveting questions and thirst for learning was a refreshing experience for me.” Dr. Cheng also lauded the graduates on surpassing the expectations of the programme and reminded them that the aim was not just to impart knowledge but to foster a culture of continuous growth, innovation and leadership excellence.

Students were recruited from the company’s corporate office as well as resorts across Jamaica, The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and Curaçao.

IT Application Project Manager and valedictorian Mellissa Brown-Fletcher, inspires her colleagues at the recently held graduation ceremony for the Sandals Corporate University’s Diploma in Hospitality Leadership Programme.

Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart captured delivering a riveting keynote address.

In the News

Sandals Resorts International’s Applications Project Manager, valedictorian and proud member of the inaugural graduating class Mellissa BrownFletcher, gave a riveting address on behalf of her colleagues. She shared, “we came in as managers and were developed into leaders. I know our families, operations and communities will be affected by who we will become and that ripple effect is going to be infectious throughout the countries we operate in.”

Executive Chairman for Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, in his keynote address shared how proud he was of the graduates and the success of the programme. “It is such a dream come true to be here today with Dean Cheng and his team holding hands with me and my team in recognition of a vision that began right here in 2009 at this resort. For me, I look in this room and I see so many of you I have interacted with over the years and we’ve experienced some great things together. The fact that you’re here in this moment is an indication of your commitment to the future

and that’s exactly what I’m looking for. You have committed to yourselves, your countries, to this region, to this organisation but most importantly, you have committed to the future.”

Team members in the second group comprising of managers from Sandals Resorts across the Eastern Caribbean are currently completing the programme and will graduate in April 2024. The SCU anticipates that by the end of 2024, another five cohorts will earn their diplomas.

For me, I look in this room and I see so many of you I have interacted with over the years and we’ve experienced some great things together. The fact that you’re here in this moment is an indication of your commitment to the future and that’s exactly what I’m looking for.

- Adam Stewart Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International

Jamie Green, corporate manager, employee experience at Sandals Resorts International (right) accepts his diploma from Adam Stewart, executive chairman, Sandals Resorts International.

Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart (left) presents Sandals South Coast’s Assistant Wedding and Banqueting Manager, Rita-Lee Johnson with her diploma.

For the Future!

Sandals opens Early Childhood Learning

Centre for employees in St Lucia

Amid great anticipation and excitement, Sandals Resorts International recently unveiled its groundbreaking Early Childhood Learning and Development Centre in Saint Lucia, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind in the region.

The grand opening ceremony was a jubilant affair, attended by government officials, community leaders, educators, and families eager to witness the innovative facility’s debut.

The state-of-the-art centre boasts bright, inviting

classrooms equipped with the latest educational resources, nurturing a stimulating environment for young minds to flourish. As the ribbon is cut, marking the official launch, cheers and applause filled the air, underscoring the commitment to early childhood education and development in the Caribbean.

Sandals’ visionary initiative sets a new standard for educational excellence in the region, promising a brighter future for generations to come.

READY, SET, JET!

History was made on February 24, 2024, at the Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA) in Boscobel, St Mary, as it welcomed American Airlines’ inaugural flight from Miami, Florida, in the United States.

Celebration ensued at the airport as flight AA4007 touched down at IFIA, conveniently located just minutes away from a collection of Sandals and Beaches resorts to include the recently unveiled Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Ochi, and Beaches Ocho Rios.

The new route, operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offers travelers a seamless journey aboard an intimate, 76-passenger E175 jet.

The historic occasion was attended by officials from Jamaica and the United States, underscoring the significance of this milestone.

Among the officials present was Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Mr Adam Stewart, who was hailed as being instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

“Years in the making, this monumental initiative marks a transformative era for Jamaica 2.0. It’s not merely about opening destinations like Ocho Rios in the serene parish of Saint Ann or the lush parishes of Saint Mary and Portland, where our four extraordinary resorts reside. It’s about providing effortless

connectivity for Jamaican travel, business, and local communities, making outbound trips to the US more convenient. Easy access to Jamaica elevates its position on the global stage, showcasing our island’s immense potential to the world. For my family, it’s even more personal as the backdrop of some of our most pivotal moments, including Ocho Rios, where my father grew up dreaming of an interconnected Caribbean,” Mr Stewart shared.

In tribute to his remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to the growth of Jamaica’s travel and tourism industry, the Airports Authority of Jamaica named the departure hall at Ian Fleming International Airport in honour of SRI’s late chairman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart.

Captain Marc Coley shows off his Jamaican flag after landing the Embraer 175 American Eagle aircraft with 71 passengers on board at the Ian Fleming International Airport in Boscobel, St Mary recently.

Sandals Corporate University Building Tourism Digital Resilience

Over the last few years, there has been increased awareness and conversations around the resilience of tourism in the Caribbean, especially after experiencing the ripple effects of Covid-19. These conversations heightened at the Montego Bay Convention Centre recently when a host of subject matter experts met to discuss building resilience in regional tourism at the second Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference.

Under the theme, “Navigating the Future of Tourism Resilience,” the two-day conference, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, UN Tourism and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), was dedicated to providing a global platform for the tourism sector to prepare, plan and pivot towards the future.

Forming part of the conversation was a panel discussion aimed at examining the changing environment of the sector in light of the fast-paced progress in technology. Guided by the topic “Building Tourism Digital Resilience”, this session provided insight into the ways digital innovation is transforming the industry, including advancements in technology and innovative business models. Participating in the stimulating discussion was Dr Luz Longsworth – Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University (SCU), the only one of its kind in the Caribbean.

In her presentation, Dr. Longsworth focused on the use of technology in capacity building as a key area of focus for the team at the Sandals Corporate University. From initial systems being institutionalised before the pandemic to the implementation of cutting-edge

technology as plans are made for the future, the Sandals brand is building a resilient team. She shared, “Our approach was pivotal to Sandals and Beaches Resorts being the first in the Caribbean

Pausing for photo at the Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference was Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica (left) and Dr. Luz Longsworth Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University (SCU).

to be reopened during the pandemic, June 2020 to be exact. What helped us, was that prior to the pandemic, we had instituted an online Learning Management System (LMS), that all of our team members across the region were using to complete courses. Their ability to continue their skills training while at home, helped to keep our industry alive in a time when it was thought that all was lost for us.”

Using this online platform saw to the birth of The Sandals Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness course, which was mandatory for team members to complete before being able to return to work on the resorts. This became not only the benchmark utilized for the successful reopening of the brand’s resorts, but also served as best practice for numerous other resorts and affiliated industry organisations throughout the Caribbean.

As she concluded, she spoke to transitioning from this initial forward thinking approach to the future. “What we’re now doing in our university is using hybrid approaches with the inclusion of AI, augmented and virtual reality in partnership with EON Reality. The truth is if we are to remain at the

cutting edge of all skillsets it has to be a multilayered approach, to include the technology that can be used to continuously teach the skills needed for personnel in our industry to thrive.”

The other panellists included, Senator the Hon. Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Skills and Digital Transformation, Natalia Bayona, UN Tourism Executive Director, Cordel Green, Executive Director, Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica, Dr. Carey Wallace, Executive Director, Tourism Enhancement Fund, Dushyant Savadia, Founder and CEO, Amber Group, Devon Bryan, Chief Information Officer, Carnival Corporation and Eric Sutfin, Founder & CMSO ZEAL. It was moderated by Mr. Ative Ennis, Senior Research Fellow for the GTRCMC.

They discussed present patterns, provided helpful perspectives on effectively manoeuvring and adjusting to forthcoming digital transformations and suggested policies and actions that can be taken in response to specific changes.

Our approach was pivotal to Sandals and Beaches Resorts being the first in the Caribbean to be reopened during the pandemic, June 2020 to be exact. What helped us, was that prior to the pandemic, we had instituted an online Learning Management System (LMS), that all of our team members across the region were using to complete courses. Their ability to continue their skills training while at home, helped to keep our industry alive in a time when it was thought that all was lost for us.”

- Dr Luz Longsworth – Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University (SCU)

Forming part of the panel on Building Tourism ‘Digital’ Resilience at the 2024 Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference, was Dr. Luz Longsworth, Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University (SCU). She spoke on the approaches the university took to build resilient training models for team members.

For the Team!

Sandals Resorts International is currently undergoing significant transformations across its resorts, all with the aim of enhancing the experience for our valued team members. The company is revamping its team member restaurants, and the results so far have been nothing short of incredible. Resorts such as Sandals Negril, Sandals South Coast, and Sandals Royal Caribbean have already completed these renovations, with many more locations in line to benefit. Here are some highlights of the before-and-after transformations from this truly extraordinary initiative.

BEFORE

AFTER

Sandals Ochi

BEFORE

AFTER

Sandals Dunn’s River

Sandals Royal Caribbean

BEFORE AFTER

Sandals South Coast

BEFORE

AFTER

Straw vendor shining

AT SANDALS ROYAL BAHAMIAN

for 27 years

“I fell in love with the straw at age five,” declared Eloise Smith, an 85-year-old straw worker based at Sandals Royal Bahamian. Now more than seven decades later, the petite mother and grandmother is still thriving in the business.

Though she is at that stage of life that most people would dub “a ripe old age”, Smith is as fit as a fiddle, with no desire to slow down anytime soon. Her wizened hands tell a story of skill, longevity and experience; the graceful wrinkles on her face seem to carve a map of her journey to becoming the most sought-after and loved straw vendor at the resort.

“I have been here the longest and I have seen this resort go through many transitions. I’m loved by the guests and staff alike. As a matter of fact, Sandals Royal Bahamian is my home away from home and so many people here are like my family,” she shared.

Special Feature

“Guests come back here to see me and when they leave they stay in touch with me. In a few months, I have some guests who will be coming and they will be taking me with them to visit one of the family islands here in the Bahamas,” she added, as she smiled and shook her gray-haired head.

She recalled that her Sandals journey started in 1996 after she attended a town hall meeting put on by the Ministry of Tourism and Sandals. At the time, Smith was selling her items at another resort.

“Sandals had just opened up in Nassau and they had a meeting that was attended by a number of straw vendors. They were telling us that they want some of us to come and sell our wares here. I was sitting in the audience and I heard them calling my name on the microphone. I don’t know how they knew of me but they mentioned me,” she recalled.

She continued between chuckles: “I left the meeting and went back to do my business at the resort for which I was working. They called my house that evening but I wasn’t there. One day while I was at the hotel, Ms Bowe who was with Sandals at the time came and packed me up. She took me and all my items to Sandals and I have been here from that day until today.”

Smith says she has never regretted leaving her former venue to sell at Sandals Royal Bahamian.

“Sandals Royal Bahamian opened up a big door for me. It gave me a permanent place to sell my items. This allowed me to provide for myself and my family, especially my six children. It has also allowed me to meet several people who have been very integral in my life,” she shared.

“There have been instances when I’ve been called in to come and do training sessions with the guests. I would set up and show them how to do straw work and they would make the items and take it back home. That was another opportunity that Sandals gave me,” she added.

“Sandals Royal Bahamian opened up a big door for me. It gave me a permanent place to sell my items. This allowed me to provide for myself and my family, especially my six children. -

- Eloise Smith, Straw Vendor

Recalling a lengthy conversation with the late Chairman of Sandals Resorts—Gordon “Butch” Stewart who visited the resort many years ago— Smith shared that he told her that she could continue selling her craft at Sandals for as long as she likes.

“He was going fishing that day. Funny enough, he told me he was going fishing with a gentleman whom he later discovered was my last son. He told me: Miss Smith, as long as you want to stay at Sandals, you can stay here with no restrictions.”

The management team at the resort threw Smith a party in commemoration of her 84th birthday some time ago.

“I was so surprised when I saw all the managers coming with balloons, fanfare and cake. I was in my own glory that day. I have truly found a family at Sandals,” she said.

Sandals Ochi Beach Resort

Valentine’s Day is recognised annually on February 14 and is a wonderful celebration of love. What’s your V-Day greeting to our team?

AALIYAH

NAKHELA

TRISHANA SIAN

AMANDA AND CHRISTA

Montego Bay Region

EHS Guardians partner with Sea the Change Foundation to benefit mangrove restoration

The Caribbean region hosts 12% of the world’s mangrove forests, and recent estimates indicate a reduction of nearly 7,000 km2 of mangroves over a span of just three decades (1980-2010). Vowing to play their part in turning the tide on these findings, EHS Guardians from Sandals Resorts in the Montego Bay region joined Sea the Change Foundation and planted over 80 black and red mangroves at the Jobson Bay Eco-Beach Park in Trelawny, Jamaica.

Just off the heels of World Wetlands Day, the activity at Jobson Bay Eco-Beach Park which embraced the theme “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing” allowed participants to experience the mood-boosting tranquility that wetlands provide while being educated about other benefits to be gained from healthy wetlands.

Sandals Royal Caribbean opens One Royal Café

A spirited cooking competition and an expansive array of delectable eats provided the perfect sides to the grand opening of Cafe de Royal - Sandals Royal Caribbean’s long-awaited Staff Restaurant.

The forth of its kind to open in one of Sandals’ resorts in Jamaica, the re-imagined and highly anticipated Cafe de Royal is the continuation of a new standard of excellence, reflecting the immense transformations that Sandals Royal Caribbean is currently undergoing as well as Sandals’ journey towards enhancement, not just for its valued guests but also for its dedicated team members.

In addition to modern aesthetics, state-of-the-art appliances, high-speed Internet and Wi-Fi, Café de Royal provides a distinctively welcoming

The Buzz

Sandals Montego Bay host Sickkids Caribbean

The Sandals Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to childhood cancer research and care with a CAD $50,000 donation to the SickKids Caribbean Initiative (SCI). The presentation was made at a cocktail party hosted by our Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart at Sandals Montego Bay. In attendance were members of the Montego Bay business community. A catalyst donor to the Canadianbased non-profit, the Sandals Foundation has over the years donated more than CAD $1-million dollars to the programme; advancing the study, diagnosis and treatment of paediatric cancer and serious blood disorders in children across the Caribbean.

Flagship Football competition a hit!

The Flagship Sports and Social Club has kicked off 2024 with a resounding success, marked by the highly anticipated return of their Flagship Football Competition. Over the course of seven thrilling weeks, enthusiastic supporters flocked to the sidelines, eagerly cheering on their favourite teams as they displayed their football skills (or lack thereof). The competition was fierce among the 12 teams, with Stewarding emerging as the top contender for victory. Close behind were Maintenance, Dining Room, and Club Sandals. However, on Valentine’s Day, as the dust settled after the grand finals, it was Club Sandals that stood victorious. Yet, beyond the exhilaration of claiming the top prize and what is sure to be the ensuing year-long bragging rights, the Club Sandals ‘ballers’ revealed a heartfelt reason why this win was particularly meaningful.

Oh Sandals, Dear Sandals…

by Kasau Gomes

Social Media & Intranet

Coordinator, Sandals

Working at Sandals Resorts is a dream come true, With crystal clear waters and skies of bright blue. The sun always shines on this paradise land, And the white sandy beaches are simply grand.

The job may be hard, but the rewards are great, For every day feels like a holiday, no need to wait. From serving cocktails to guests with a smile, To organising activities and making their stay worthwhile.

Antigua

The guests come from all over, seeking a break, And we are here to ensure their every wish we make. We pamper and cater, making their stay divine, For at Sandals Resorts, customer service is our prime.

The tropical breeze carries the sweet scent of flowers, As we work together, like a team with superpowers. The staff is like family, we work and play, In this little piece of heaven, every single day. From morning till night, the resort comes alive, With laughter and music, we thrive.

The ambiance is magical, it’s hard to deny, For working at Sandals Resorts, feels like we’re on cloud nine.

So come and join us, in this paradise on earth, Where work doesn’t feel like work, but a joyous mirth. Sandals Resorts, where dreams do come true, And working here, feels like a dream too.

Sending Greetings from Beaches Turks and Caicos

Fred Vanique

Judith

Kay Ann Shakeen Shakem

The Caribbean Girlfriend

Bernard St. Remy, Bartender Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

Ingredients

• A dash of Peach Schnapps

• A hint of Amaretto Liqueur

• A flavouring of Blue Curaçao

• A smattering of coconut cream

• Top off with orange juice

The Caribbean Girlfriend is Bernard’s signature drink, and he never uses precise measurements. He mixes this cocktail with heart, Caribbean flavours, and whole lot of personality. It seems to be working because the word on resort is that guests just cannot get enough of it.

Embracing the Wonders of Motherhood

“Is she really mine?”, new mommy, Kimalie Alcott remembers asking herself the first time she held her bundle of joy. Flushed with emotions and a plethora of thoughts including, “What a way she look like her daddy!”, Alcott knew that her baby girl, Kehlani Serenity Flemming, would become her reason for going after all that she can in all aspects of her life.

Now a whole 18 months into motherhood, according to her, the best way to describe the journey so far is blissful. She, however, notes that this feeling is a welcomed change from her initial set of emotions when she first found out she was pregnant.

“At first, I was scared and did not know how to tell my mom. I mean, even though I am grown, I still feel like I am her baby. I was so afraid but when I finally told her, she asked me ‘what yuh a worry ‘bout?” and assured me the baby would be alright,” she said.

Though her mother’s reassurance gave her a boost of confidence, she was still tight-lipped about making the announcement to anyone else.

New Parent

At this point, she was about five years into her role as Front Office Agent at Sandals Negril. Her team was like a second family to her and she knew she would ultimately have to let to them in on the news, but delayed for as long as she could.

“I never told my teammates. It was my first child so I was cautious about everything. But they eventually started to notice and one day my colleague called me aside and questioned me about my change in appearance. I was still nervous but I told her and she gave me some advice as a mom as well, and that made me feel more comfortable opening up to my manager,” Alcott recounted.

Once team members across the resort found out she was expecting, support started pouring in from all angles. From gifting her with dozens of mangoes, to carrying all her bags and belongings, she wanted for nothing and her every request was usually met.

“Dem feed me enuh. Everybody looked out for me; always questioning if I ate and getting me exactly what I want. Nothing was too much for them to get for me,” she expressed.

She considers herself extremely blessed as the support from home was just as great. Thinking about some of her strange requests and occasional moodiness made her chuckle a little as she reminisced on how the father of her child never made a fuss about any of it.

“He would be there for everything. He made sure I was comfortable and that I would not need to worry about a thing. He was there even throughout the mood swings. Even when I came

back to work, he stayed with the baby. I appreciate all the support,” Alcott said.

Now as she prepares for her daughters ‘terrible twos’, she is content with all that motherhood has to offer, even if it means sacrificing her sleep, which happens to be one of her favourite activities.

“The older you get and the more you look at life, you realise you must learn to adjust. This doesn’t necessarily mean giving away things that I love to do, but I had to learn when. I have to think about my child,” she explained.

She is already seeing parts of herself in her daughter who, like her, loves to dance and have a good time. Because of this, she ensures that she dances with her every morning before heading out for work and squeezes in a dance break in the evening’s before sending her off to bed.

While Alcott is aware of the challenges that comes with being a new mom, she combats every hurdle with prayer, and planning a break as needed. This is the message she gives to all expecting and new mommies.

“Don’t give up!” Alcott shared. “If you feel like you need a break, and we deserve breaks, ask for it. Get them in. Take downtime. If you are not healthy and you are not strong, you are not going to be able to support your child. You will not be able to provide all their needs. Let your child be a reason to get up every day and say ‘I am going to do this! I am going to reach further.’ Always focus on what you truly want because at the end of the day, your child is going to look at you and say ‘my mom did this’ and they will be proud of you.”

Beaches Negril stands beautifully on the Seven Mile Beach, and helping to keep up its appearance is Lawrence from the Landscaping Department, who takes immense pride in doing his part to ensure that the grounds are ever in pristine condition.

Did someone call for a freshly baked pizza? No worries! Omari from Beaches Negril gets it right every single time as he bakes up the delicious cheesy goodness at Dino’s Pizzeria Italiana.

Love was in the air and magic all around at the Beaches Negril’s Valentine’s Day celebration. Team Entertainment brought their A-game, enchanting guests with mesmerizing decor and a show that left them spellbound. A round of applause for this creative team!

At the opening of Beaches Ocho Rios’ 2023 Annual Prestige Week of events, Kayann McLean (left) and Samanta McPherson were two of the more than 80 team members who received the highly sought-after personalized pendant engraved with the resort’s emblem and the date of the grand gala event. Every team member was required to select a name and provide the token to the person they chose. Members of the team proudly and admiringly wear their pendants.

All eyes were on the vibrant Entertainment team at Beaches Ocho Rios as they performed the newest dance, “Chakka,” for their colleagues at the opening of the 2023 Prestige nominees week of events.

Redlane Spa ladies Shari Beam, Tracey Keene, and Angellee HenryFennell revel in the spotlight, basking in well-deserved recognition as nominees for upcoming Prestige Awards at Beaches Ocho Rios.

Sandals Grande Antigua has taken a significant step towards promoting the health and wellness of its team members by launching the RESET programme. This four-month programme encourages individuals to focus on self-care and self-love, to improve their overall health and confidence.

Supervisor in the Banqueting Kitchen at Beaches Turks and Caicos - Chef Andrea Brownshows service with a smile as she prepares wafers at the Diamonds and Pearls Brunch at the resort’s Soy.

Kavon Hall, Water Sports Attendant at Beaches Simulator at the resort’s Water Park as he demonstrates world’s number-one all-inclusive family resort.

Beaches Turks and Caicos surfs the tide in the Surf demonstrates the skills needed to have fun at the

Celebrating love a Beaches Turks and Caicos is always red and white as team members from the Entertainment Department pair up to share a moment with the camera lens.

Picture Perfect

It was all hands on deck for Sandals Barbados’ Valentine’s Extravaganza. Here, the ladies from the HR Department, with assistance, made sure that all the team’s sweet needs were met.

Touch Down!!!! Guests had a blast at this year’s Super Bowl celebrations thanks to the Sandals Barbados Entertainment Team.

The Learning & Development Team at Sandals Barbados is on the go! Here, members are ensuring that all departments are up-to-date with their LMS courses and the completion of the Team Member Survey.

The Butler Team at Sandals Royal Barbados made sure that guests felt the love on Valentine’s Day.

Sandals Royal Curaçao recently hosted a fancy masquerade-themed bash to honour the resort’s stellar team for their outstanding efforts in November and December. The event was a blast, with team members bonding and getting kudos from the big bosses for their exceptional work.

Picture Perfect

The Entertainment Department had a full cheer squad to truly enhance the guests’ experience during Sandals Emerald Bay’s recently held Superbowl celebrations.

Amidst the dedicated romance on magic to the

Sandals Emerald Bay’s Club Sandals team always understands the assignment with pure perfection.

Sandals Emerald Bay has caught Rajean living a double life ... EHS Coordinator by day and live prop by night.

the enchanting fusion of love and luxury at Sandals Dunn’s River, Toni Ann, a member of the Weddings Department, orchestrates a captivating tale of on Valentine’s Day, sealing it with a tender kiss to the Lion, adding a touch of the celebration.

As love fills the air at Sandals Dunn’s River, the cheerful team members create heartwarming moments together on Valentine’s Day, adding to the romance of the occasion.

In the ambiance of warmth and affection at Sandals Dunn’s River, Omanda graces the occasion with an exquisite display, radiating elegance in her resplendent red attire, adding a touch of splendor to the Valentine’s Day festivities.

When envisioning exquisite and romantic luxury, one name that effortlessly comes to mind is Javel from our Weddings Department, whose presence adds an extra layer of sophistication to our Valentine’s Day celebration through an impeccable fashion presentation, elevating the ambiance to unparalleled heights of elegance and romance.

Picture Perfect

Lucia celebrates its 45th anniversary of independence and team members came out in full force to appreciate and accompany the Baton Relay event. This year, the Baton was proudly carried by Everton Regis, a longstanding Watersports team member.

Saint

Look closely and you’ll see Grace Fontellio, Playmaker, Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort. If love is all you need, then gracefully surround yourself with roses, for Valentine’s.

For the love of Sandals.

Eulalia from the Housekeeping Department at Sandals Halcyon Beach making up the perfect bed for her arriving guests.

The Loyalty and Travel team at Sandals Halcyon Beach went all out on Valentine’s day to gift team members throughout the resort.

Martha at Sandals Halcyon taking care for her team members, serving a sweet treat in the staff restaurant.

Picture Perfect

Team members from Sandals Grenada went all out for the Grenada Independence Song Competition where the Revenue team claimed victory.

Sandals Regency La Toc’s vibrant hosting of this year’s Super Bowl activities on the resort was a thrilling experience for guests and sports enthusiasts alike. From spirited halftime competitions to exciting giveaways, Sandals Regency La Toc truly brought the excitement of the Super Bowl to life, creating a memorable and festive celebration for all in attendance.

Sandals Regency La Toc recently issued invitations to nominees of the resort’s annual Prestige Awards. The invitation was no ordinary piece of paper -- it’s a high-tech gadget that emits a soft blue light once activated. Nominees were instructed to come dressed in their most sophisticated attire, and the invitation ends with a whispered reminder to keep their wits sharp and your secrets close, hinting at an unforgettable evening of sophistication and allure of the upcoming event.

The love-filled atmosphere during Sandals Regency La Toc’s Valentine’s Day festivities was nothing short of magical. As guests strolled through the beautifully decorated resort, they were surrounded by the sweet scent of roses and the soft melodies of live music filling the air.

Picture Perfect

Not only is Scion from the Entertainment Department at Sandals Montego Bay, a talented dancer, and a Playmaker, but just look at this masterpiece he created from scratch as the Flagship celebrated Bob’s ‘earthstrong’.

Just when our guests at Sandals Montego Bay thought their vacation couldn’t get any better, here comes Antonio the Butler with his world-class smile to brighten their day even more.

Do you see those faces?

Shanice and Owen from the Food & Beverage department have something delicious in store for our guests at Sandals Montego Bay’s oh-so-lovely Sunkissed Brunch.

Nobody does Valentine’s Day like Sandals Negril and what a magnificent celebration of love it was. From costumes, to décor and food, the resort transformed into a sea of red and white that captivated guests and transported them to lovers paradise.

The Earth Guardians Club is not only dedicated to environmental efforts on resort but has also been ensuring that team members can get a warm, filling cup of porridge at the start of the day through their biweekly porridge sale. Lois Nelson from the Bar team (left) and Assistant Weddings Manager, Crystal Tennant (right) are always ready to play their part to ensure the success of the initiative.

Briana from Entertainment channeled her inner Bob Marley for this pose during the celebration of the Reggae icon on resort.

Picture Perfect

The General Manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, Deryk Meany, proudly displays a plaque at the Clapham Community Basic School in Moneague. It was given to the Sandals Foundation by Nicole Robichaud, the Commanding Officer of His Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) Margaret Brooke. The event marked the beginning of a cooperation between Sandals Foundation and Canada. Thirty Canadian sailors, along with the Canadian High Commissioner, and 19 Sandals Foundation volunteers from Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ochi painted the school’s entire campus.

Housekeepers Emika Rosedom and Samantha Davis smile as they show off their gifts and treats at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort’s quarterly staff birthday celebration.

Taps and Roses! These Playmakers at Sandals Royal Bahamian, Rishan (left) and Mazoie were certainly feeling the Valentine’s spirit.

Brandysha Black from the Dining Room at Sandals Royal Bahamian was decked out in her touch of pink as the resort celebrated Valentine’s Day under a red and pink theme.

The kitchen team was not to be left out of the Valentine’s Day festivities at Sandals Royal Bahamian. Chef Nephy (right) and her teammate Chantel were all smiles ahead of serving scrumptious meals to the team members.

Alyssa from the Accounts team is all smiles as she collects a prize from Recruiter, Livern during a fun activity inside Café de Royal.

Regional Public Relations Manager, Rochelle shares a light moment with members of the Mobay United FC Under-15 team during a Sandals Foundation/USAID “Sports for Life” event.

Picture Perfect

All glammed up for her birthday, Monique from the Watersports Department at Sandals Royal Caribbean dished tips on how to put your best face forward.

Experience unparalleled hospitality at Sandals Royal Plantation with our front desk star, Euwayne Haye. From check-in to departure, his warmth and professionalism set the tone for an unforgettable stay.

In a charming display of hospitality, Junior Comrie, a devoted member of the distinguished Bar Department at Sandals Royal Plantation, pauses to share his captivating smile, which never fails to enchant our esteemed guests.

Tawana Davis, the epitome of grace within the esteemed Accounting Department at Sandals Royal Plantation, exudes an aura of charm and professionalism as she meticulously tends to financial matters with finesse and poise.

Restaurant Server at Sandals South Coast, Alisa Liscombre knows that we must embrace our inner child!

It was a night of love at Sandals South Coast and Playmakers Dialdo Nairne and Shavia Roxbourgh painted the night red with their guests.

Smile a while and give your face a rest with Concierge Agent at Sandals South Coast, Chloe Davis!

Kesia Baccas from the Sandals South Coast Dining Room team, with a reminder that an apple a day, truly keeps the doctor away.