InTouch May 2024

AT A GLANCE

3 The Way Forward

SLS

Mobay Region

Ochi Region

SDR | BNG | SRP | SBD

BTC | SSC | SHC

8 In The News

Jill Stewart Mobay City Run

Lyndsay Isaacs cops third-ever

Stewart Family Culture Award

Adam Stewart among 3 Jamaicans to be conferred with honorary UCC doctorate degrees

Sandals Resorts Lauds Travel

Advisors during annual STAR Awards

Online Pension Access for St Lucia Team!

Sandals hosts grand closing ceremony for CHTA Travel Marketplace

Sandals Resorts International 18 Long Service

2 4 The Buzz

Sandals Emerald Bay hosts Miss Teen Bahamas prelims

Vox Pop

Sandals Grande St Lucian

Sandals St Vincent

Sandals Royal Plantation

Fitzroy Christie From Busboy to Food & Beverage Director Picture Perfect May in Photos!

SANDALS GRENADA

For our resort moms

Mothers at Sandals Grenada were celebrated in fine style at their “Uptown Team Restaurant”. A delectable lunch was served by gentlemen of the resort and each mother received a token of appreciation. The day’s excitement was elevated further with raffles and games with big-ticket prizes including a mobile phone, phone credit, bottles of wine, spa treatments and baked goods.

Celebrating our founding team members

Recently, 133 team members who have been with Sandals La Source Grenada since its inception – from the pre-opening phase to the present day – were honoured. These dedicated individuals reminisced about enduring a rainstorm during the resort’s soft launch, trudging through mud with muddied shoes, and cleaning up construction debris. These shared anecdotes and memories have forged strong bonds among them, marking pivotal moments in their respective journeys with Sandals. General Manager Peter Fraser commended the team for their unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of hospitality excellence.

MOBAY REGION

Moving For Health

Sandals Royal Caribbean's Environment Health & Safety Manager Shari Aris stunned the resort’s managers as she introduced Fitness Instructor Earl Bishop to the morning’s Shift Line Up to show the managers some simple desk exercises in honour of ‘Move For Health Day’. Shari spoke passionately about the rise of lifestyle-related diseases and how some simple measures featured in Bishop’s demonstration can help team members take control of their health!

Refresher Training for Team SRC

Sandals Royal Caribbean team members eagerly participated in a Sandals Foundation Refresher/ Verbiage Training session spearheaded by the Regional Public Relations team. Since the training, there has been a marked improvement in the drive for donations on the resort and a noticeable interest in the team to be active Sandals Foundation volunteers with even one team member, Entertainment Coordinator Marketta Bonner remarking, “This felt like the exact push we needed.” Here’s to inspiring hope!

The Montego Bay Region Honours Its HR Professionals

In a joint luncheon hosting the human resources professionals of Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals Montego Bay, both teams were honoured by the resorts’ executive team with an afternoon of well-deserved gifts, laughter, food and commendations for the excellent job they’ve been doing.

Happy Mother's Day to the women of the Flagship!

The mothers of Sandals Montego Bay were treated to a lovely Mother’s Day Luncheon. The women enjoyed their meals prepared and served by men, soulful serenades delivered by the male team members and the afternoon of laughter, prizes and respite that the event afforded. Well-deserved, moms!

OCHI REGION

Free On-site Immunizations at Beaches Ocho Rios

Beaches Ocho Rios recently partnered with the St Mary Health Department in celebration of vaccination week. During the event, team members received free vaccinations, conveniently administered at the resort. Vaccinations were administered for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), tetanus, flu, and COVID-19. The team was very pleased with the convenience and accessibility of these vaccination services.

Fit for Education

Team members from BOR & SOBR were among the thousands of runners to lace up their sneakers and participate in the Jill Stewart Mobay City Run, enthusiastically embracing the dual purpose of maintaining fitness and supporting a great education cause. By joining together in this effort, the team promoted wellness and extended support to educational initiatives.

Wine Tasting

During a four-day wine-tasting session, bartenders at Sandals Ochi expanded their knowledge of new wines set to be introduced. This included delving into their unique qualities, aromas, and pronunciations, as well as mastering the art of pairing them with food. With this newfound expertise, our team was poised and confident to offer our esteemed clients an exceptional experience.

Early Breakfast

Beaches Ocho Rios has introduced a special breakfast service for early-arriving team members, served in the newly refurbished and renamed restaurant, ‘Simmer Down’.

This gesture of appreciation has been warmly received by the team. The fresh, inviting atmosphere of ‘Simmer Down’ perfectly complements the delicious breakfast offerings. Team members have shared positive audio feedback, expressing their gratitude and enthusiasm for the thoughtful initiative, highlighting how it boosts their morale and sets a positive tone for the day ahead.

DUNN’S RIVER BEACHES NEGRIL

Mother’s Day Luncheon

At Sandals Dunn’s River, we honoured the hard-working mothers on our team with a special Mother’s Day luncheon. Our dedicated male team members took on the role of servers, creating a memorable experience where our beloved mothers could relax and feel truly appreciated. As they enjoyed a delectable meal and delightful drinks, served with care by their colleagues, each mother received a heartfelt gift as a token of our gratitude for their dedication and nurturing spirit. It was a touching celebration, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the shared joy of recognizing the incredible contributions of the mothers within our Sandals family.

Irie Vybz!

Following a two-and-a-half-month closure, Beaches Negril Resort and Spa celebrated the grand opening of Irie Vybz Cafe, a vibrant staff-exclusive restaurant. This event marks a significant milestone for the five-star resort, showcasing their commitment to providing exceptional facilities for their dedicated team members.

ROYAL

PLANTATION

Managers’ Outing

At Sandals Royal Plantation, the managers’ outing is a cherished time for relaxation and team bonding. It’s an evening where they can kick off their shoes, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressures of work. Whether it’s a backyard lyme, playing dominoes, or a day at the river, every moment is about fostering camaraderie and strengthening their team spirit. As they return refreshed and reinvigorated, the outing serves as a reminder of the importance of balance and unity within the workplace.

BARBADOS

A Festive May Meeting

It was a fun afternoon for the team at Sandals Barbados during the May staff meeting. Not only were several team members recognized for their hard work and dedication to the company but others received fantastic prizes as random draws were held. Then it was time to celebrate the managers and senior team members, as they kicked back, chatted, competed for prizes and even showed that they were ready for this year’s Crop Over festivities.

TURKS & CAICOS

Happy Mother’s Day

The mothers at Beaches Turks and Caicos were provided with a full dining and entertainment experience recently as the Human Resources Department and the male leaders on resort put on a treat for them at the Caribbean Village conference room.

SOUTH COAST

Inter-Department Quiz!

And then there were two! The Sandals South Coast interdepartment quiz competition has been the talk of the resort, and the finals lived up to the hype. Team Front Office faced off against Team Housekeeping in blue, delivering a nail-biting, intense showdown right up to the final minute. Against all odds, Team Housekeeping emerged as the reigning champions. Front Office clipped second place while Team Food & Beverage took third.

HALCYON

Momtastic!

For Mother’s Day 2024, Sandals Halcyon hosted a ‘Momtastic’ 90’s retro move and groove celebration. This included some fun competitions like a ‘squatathon’, obstacle course, wheel of fortune and a soca-fit exercise session. The SHC mommies all got a chance to win major prizes including a day trip to Martinique and a round trip to Barbados.

Jill Stewart Mobay City Run

Hundreds of team members from Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and their sister brands in Jamaica, enthusiastically descended upon Montego Bay in St James on Sunday, May 5th, to participate in the Jill Stewart Mobay City Run.

Their remarkable turnout not only showcased their

support for education, as proceeds from the run are used to offer financial assistance to tertiary students in and around St James. It was also a heartfelt display of solidarity towards Sandals Resorts International’s Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, whose late wife

the charity race was renamed in honour of this year.

The immense turnout from the group underscored their unwavering support for the charity event, a sentiment echoed by Sandals Resorts International, a pivotal sponsor since the run’s inception.

The company’s steadfast commitment to sponsoring the event stems from its deep-rooted advocacy for education, exemplified by its investment in the Sandals Corporate University (SCU), the Caribbean’s largest institution of its kind.

Lyndsay Isaacs cops third-ever Stewart Family Culture Award

A look of pleasant shock washed over Lyndsay Isaac’s face as she stood up to accept the Stewart Family Culture Award. This honour, bestowed only twice before in the history of Sandals Resorts International (SRI), underscores its extraordinary rarity.

Established to acknowledge a team member who embodies the enduring spirit of Sandals Resorts International’s late Chairman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, it serves as a tribute to a Sandals leader who has made remarkable contributions in promoting, preserving and celebrating the vibrant and distinctive culture of the company.

Lyndsay, Regional Public Relations Manager for Beaches Ocho Rios and Sandals Ochi Beach Resort, had no idea she was to become the next recipient of this esteemed accolade during the annual Prestige Awards ceremony for SRI’s corporate offices earlier this month. In fact, she was only there to cheer on her colleagues who were nominees for more traditional awards given out that evening. She was in disbelief when her name was called. SRI’s Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, stood proudly waiting to personally hand Lyndsay the esteemed award. This award was special to him too, as it symbolizes the values on which his late father Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart formed the company – values he, Adam, has multiplied in leading the Caribbean’s only super brand.

Deafening applause filled the venue, and overwhelmed by the enormity of the moment, Lyndsay’s heart swelled with emotion and her eyes flooded with tears.

“They were tears of joy. I was shaking so much while I was up there. I felt so honoured and elated. I was speechless,” Lyndsay remembered, sharing that she never expected to receive an award, especially of this magnitude, for her work with the company.

“Some things you do for the love of what it is. And because you do it because you enjoy it, you’re having fun and that’s the reward in itself. That’s what my job is to me,” said Lyndsay,

whose role frequently involves community outreach and assisting people, something she is immensely passionate about.

Receiving this award from the Stewart family caused Lyndsay to reflect on when she joined the company more than three decades ago. She chuckled at the fact that her tenure was never intended to last as long as it has, not even remotely. She joined the company as a youngster looking for a way to help pay tuition for a college in which she had already enrolled.

“My intention wasn’t to be at Sandals. It was just a summer job. I got registered, and I was prepared to go back to school. The summer job hasn’t ended yet,” laughed the Regional Public Relations Manager who is among countless team members who’ve received a Sandals scholarship to complete their Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degrees.

But she did not stay because of the scholarships.

It was during her first few months with the company when she and an army of team members from Sandals visited an orphanage in Montego Bay that was in need. She was in high school when she first learned about the orphanage’s

needs.

“Being school kids, there was not much we had to give to these babies there or to help them to buy packed diapers or baby food,” Lyndsay shared, saying she reached out to management at Sandals Montego Bay not long after joining the resort as a summer intern, asking for help for the children’s home.

She couldn’t believe the overwhelming support that followed.

“Two months later, we got a truck loaded with cribs, a stove, a fridge, and a bus filled with managers and team members, and we went to Blossom Garden Children’s Home. We were painting the

facilities and did other upgrades there. I get so emotional thinking about that day. I merely mentioned to Sandals what was going on and they immediately decided to help. It became a regular thing too. Every month we’d go there. That was really the turning point for me in wanting to stay with the company.

What has made receiving the award even sweeter are the prizes that go along with it. She received a trip to Europe for herself and her family, all expenses paid, which Lyndsay describes as incredibly awesome.

SRI’s Managing Director for the Eastern Caribbean, Winston Anderson, and the Corporate Director for Human Resources, Ryan Matthew, were the only other persons to ever receive this award. For them, receiving this prestigious award isn’t only an extreme honour but also a great responsibility.

“When you’re recognised, it means that you’re an example of excellence. And because you’re that example, it means that I am one of three who now carry a mantle to uphold the values of everything that the Stewart Family Culture Award represents,” said Matthew, admitting that he too did not expect to be honoured as the second-ever

Matthew, who has been with Sandals since 2008, remembers questioning whether he was in a dream on the night he was honoured almost a year ago. So moved by the accolade at the time, he had the photograph of him receiving the award framed for his mother, which he said warmed her heart with pride.

The recognition with the Stewart Family Culture Award stands as a beacon of inspiration for all who strive to make a meaningful impact. Lyndsay, Winston and Ryan’s recognition reminds us that true success is not just measured by accolades, but by the lives we touch and the hearts we uplift along the way.

Adam Stewart among 3 Jamaicans to be conferred with honorary UCC doctorate degrees

Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart has been named among three Jamaicans who will be conferred with honorary doctoral degrees from the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC).

Stewart will receive the Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) in Business Administration Award. The other recipients include Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, who will be conferred with the Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) in Hospitality and Tourism Management Award, and Dr Patricia V Smith, who will receive the Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) in Behavioral Sciences Award. They will be presented with the degrees during a UCC commencement ceremony to be held at the National Arena in Kingston on Sunday, July 28, 2024, starting at 11 am.

This year’s ceremony will take place under the theme “Arise – take your place”. It is expected that more than 1,000 graduates will be receiving degrees for the first time in the history of the institution.

Stewart is being awarded for his contribution to the hospitality, media, automotive and appliance industries as chairman and chief executive officer of Sandals Resorts International, as well as executive chairman of the ATL Group which comprises the Jamaica Observer Limited and Appliance Traders Ltd.

He will join his late father, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, who was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate from the UCC, posthumously in 2022.

Meanwhile, Minister Bartlett is being acknowledged for his contribution to the Ministry of Tourism and the overall

tourism industry.

Dr Patricia Smith is being awarded for her success in the field of healthcare and nursing. She continues to give back to her community both in the USA and Jamaica.

Applauding the recipients of the three honorary doctorate degrees, UCC President Professor Colin Gyles said, “In conferring honorary degrees, the UCC Executive Council & Board, select persons who represent the core values of our university, have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields of endeavor and have made outstanding contributions to Jamaica.”

Sandals Resorts Lauds Travel Advisors during annual STAR Awards

Wonder, awe and applause enveloped nearly 400 Travel Advisors and their companions as they arrived by private charter to an exhilarating weeklong celebration at Sandals’ new island home in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

This year marked the 19th edition of the coveted Sandals Travel Advisor Recognition (STAR) Awards, brought to life surrounded by nature’s splendor. As esteemed guests, global Travel Advisors from North America, United Kingdom, Canada and Latin America descended on the mystic shores of Buccament Bay, where the new Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines gave way to a dynamic itinerary of continued learning, team building, community engagement, celebration and plenty of rest and relaxation under the Vincentian sun.

“We’ve always put our money on the horse that is the Travel Advisor community. This goes as far back as 1981 – when my father started this company. The best bet in the world is to bet on the most powerful distribution means in the entire

tourism ecosystem – and that’s hands down, Travel Advisors. We continue to hold this true. The Travel Advisor community built this company and we love you, we love you, we love you. We will continue to forge ahead in every way we can, working with airlines, governments, taxi associations and travel distribution companies - with a team of people who believe in us and relentlessly believe in the Caribbean," said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.

A Night to Honor Excellence: STAR Awards Highlights

The centerpiece of the event was the STAR Awards Ceremony, where top-performing Travel Advisors from around the globe were recognized for their invaluable contribution to Caribbean tourism as a whole. Her Excellency Susan Dougan, Governor General of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, was among the presenters, with categories spanning Best of the Best, Million Dollar Club, Rising STARS, Chairman’s Royal Club, Top Sandals Travel Agency, Top Beaches Travel Agency, Top

Club Sandals, Top Butler Elite, Top Weddings Travel Advisors, Worldwide Contribution to the Sandals Foundation, Top Island Routes Travel Advisor, Outstanding Achievement in Social Media and more.

The evening also gave way to the newest induction into Sandals’ coveted Hall of Fame with Zane Kerby, President and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) presented with the honor in recognition of his role and remarkable tenure as a true champion for the hospitality and travel industries. The Sandals Hall of Fame award is presented to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the success of Caribbean tourism, working diligently to promote cultural understanding, meaningful trade and ultimately, the responsible growth of tourism in the region.

Additional Program Highlights

Educational sessions underscored Sandals’ commitment to supporting and enhancing the professional growth of Travel Advisors, including a “Social Media Marketing &

Destination Wedding Forum” that shared new strategies and tools to enhance Advisors’ online presence, along with new trends and celebration packages. A “Sandals and Beaches Business Review Session” set the stage for nostalgic remarks from SRI Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, who delved into the brand’s undeniable history with the Travel Advisor community. Onsite experiences partner, Island Routes, invited Travel Advisors to adventure through the island’s lush rainforests, sail along the pristine coastline, and venture into the vibrant downtown area of Kingstown. Other attendees learned about the Sandals Foundation’s partnership with Hand2Earth and Grow In Time’s Vetiver Craft Project, which offers a second chance through rehabilitation and re-socializing training programs. Evenings were spent swaying to the beat of talented artists from the Caribbean for vibrant cultural celebrations throughout - from lively oceanfront parties under

the stars to a wedding showcase cocktail hour - creating opportunities for networking while immersing Advisors in the festive spirit of the Caribbean. Dine-arounds also invited attendees to connect over local Vincentian cuisine at new culinary concepts like Buccan - a largeformat dining experience inspired by local cooking traditions - and Scrimshaw, a tribute to the island’s bounty on land and in the water.

Sounds from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Throughout the weekend, tourism leaders joined together to speak to advisors and reinforce their important role within the tourism infrastructure.

The Honourable Carlos James, Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines delivered poignant words about the destination. "What’s important about this destination? It’s one of the last Caribbean destinations which is largely untouched. We are

big on environmental sustainability, conservation, and preserving our nature. We want to limit the carbon footprint and that’s essential."

Gary Sadler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Industry Relations for Unique Vacations Inc, described Travel Advisors as the heartbeat of our industry and expressed gratitude for their unwavering commitment.

Online Pension Access for St Lucia Team!

All Sandals team members based in St Lucia can now easily access their company pension plan details through the Ciceron Management Limited Pension Plan online dashboard. Our St Lucian team members were thrilled to receive hands-on training from the pension plan representatives, guiding them through the platform and answering questions about their investments. With just a few clicks, the team members can stay up-to-date with their contributions. Next stop – Grenada!

Sandals hosts grand closing ceremony for CHTA Travel Marketplace

Sandals Resorts recently reaffirmed its status as the world's best by hosting a glamorous closing ceremony for the 42nd staging of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourist Association’s (CHTA’s) Travel Marketplace at its flagship resort, Sandals Montego Bay. The forum, known as the region’s largest tourism marketing event, attracted over a thousand delegates from around 50 countries. The spectacular closing ceremony featured exquisite cuisine and captivating entertainment, marking the successful conclusion of the four-day event.

FITZROY CHRISTIE

From Busboy to Food & Beverage Director

Fitzroy Christie’s career at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort is a testament to dedication, smart work, and the power to seize opportunities. Starting as a busboy in the resort’s restaurant right after high school, Fitzroy has dedicated over three decades to the hospitality industry, rising through the ranks to become the Director of Food and Beverage. Today, he oversees 16 restaurants and leads a team of over 500 team members.

Fitzroy’s rise to success was supported by Sandals Resorts' commitment to employee growth and development. The resort provided him with educational opportunities, allowing him to earn an Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree in Business and hospitality as well as critical courses offered by Sandals Corporate University. These experiences equipped Fitzroy with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in his career.

Known for his exceptional leadership and respect by his peers, Fitzroy reflects on his journey with gratitude and pride. “I am incredibly proud to be a part of a Jamaican company that values its employees and invests in their future. Sandals Resorts is more than just a workplace, it’s a family,” he says.

As Fitzroy continues to lead with passion and dedication, his story inspires both his colleagues and the next generation of hospitality professionals. His commitment to Sandals Resorts and his love for this company shines through in everything he does, making him a true embodiment of the resort’s values and culture.

“Being a member of an organisation that loves its workers and makes investments in their future makes me feel tremendously pleased. Sandals Resorts is a family, not just a place of employment. Being a Jamaicanowned business, I’m very honoured to be a part of this outstanding group,” Fitzroy said.

As Sandals Resorts International advances its sustainability efforts, inTouch magazine is excited to present this new feature,

“

Think Green.”

In this series, our newly appointed Corporate Director for Sustainability, Kirstin McCarthy, will share her expertise, best practices, and insights on sustainability. Let’s dive into what she has to say this month:

StyleMoment

Our corporate offices in Jamaica recently held its Annual Prestige Awards ceremony, recognizing our top-performing teams of 2023, and it was a phenomenal and enchanting evening of celebration. This year was particularly special because we changed things up from the usual ballroom-type venue and brought prestige to the beach. Oh yeah, it was also an all-white affair. The people were stunning, but don’t just take our word for it…

THE BUZZ

Sandals Emerald Bay hosts Miss Teen Bahamas Prelims

Sandals Emerald Bay was buzzing well into the weeks leading up to, and long after the coveted Miss Teen Bahamas beauty pageant. Ms Terria Curling, Assistant Manager of Butler Elite Service, is the proud mother of Rikki Curling, the Miss Teen Bahamas representative for the island of Exuma. This is a significant event, as Exuma has not had a representative in the Miss Teen Bahamas pageant for ages, making Rikki’s entry truly remarkable.

The pageant coordinators partnered with Sandals Emerald Bay to host the Miss Teen Bahamas preliminaries at the resort. The event garnered massive support from the community, with over 500 Exumians in attendance. Terria Curling was overwhelmed by the support, which boosted her daughter’s confidence as she entered Miss Teen Bahamas. Terria shared that Rikki is a well-rounded student with several academic accolades, including being an Exuma Local Government Junior Council Representative, a member of the Bahamas National Debate Team, President of the Exuma Christian Academy Student Body, a member of the Governor General’s Youth Programme, winner of the Etienne Dupuch Law School essay competition, and holding eight Bahamas Junior Certificates with honours.

Terria noted that the competition has significantly strengthened their mother-daughter bond. They spent countless hours together preparing for each stage of the pageant, sharing moments of joy, frustration, and triumph. This experience allowed them to connect on a deeper level as they navigated the highs and lows of the journey together and celebrated Rikki’s successes.

Rikki now holds the title of Miss Teen Bahamas International, a prestigious honour that recognises

her personal achievements and abilities. This title positions her as a role model and ambassador for the Bahamas, allowing her to represent the country at the international level in Tennessee, promoting Bahamian culture, values, and the beauty of the islands.

After the completion of the pageant, Terria views her daughter with even greater admiration and respect. Rikki has proven herself to be a dedicated, hardworking, and talented young woman. Her ability to handle the pressures of the competition and emerge victorious has shown her inner strength and resilience. Terria is incredibly proud of Rikki’s accomplishments and excited for her future.

Rikki’s win has brought immense pride and joy to the island of Exuma. The community is thrilled to have one of their own representing them on such a grand stage. This achievement has inspired many young girls on the island to pursue their dreams and has fostered a sense of unity and excitement as everyone rallies behind Rikki for the upcoming international

In gratitude, Terria shares her appreciation for the resort’s support in catering a complimentary celebratory lunch and partnering with the Island Administrator and the local government to celebrate her daughter’s achievements.

Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

“Father’s Day is just a few weeks away.

How are our men dealing with mental health issues nowadays? ”

Curtis

Rene

Shanata

Chris

Sending Greetings from Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

At Sandals Saint Vincent, our team exudes warmth, reaching out to colleagues at sister resorts with heartfelt video greetings. With smiles as radiant as the Caribbean sun, our team members share their sincere appreciation and best wishes with their counterparts throughout the region.

Ishmael

Shatal

Inga

Devon

Zarifa

Sandals Royal Plantation

Jessica and Shawn

Loyalty & Travel and Housekeeping

Tales of Motherhood

Laurina Stanislas, Spa Manager at Sandals Halcyon Beach, tells us about her experience with her son Talib Rabbi Stanislas – now five months old.

Finding out I was pregnant was an overwhelming experience. Being deeply dedicated to my work, I felt a mix of emotions knowing that I would now have to dedicate myself to someone else. The thought of being responsible for another human being brought both excitement and apprehension. Yet, despite the good and bad feelings, I was ready to embrace this new challenge.

Fortunately, my pregnancy went smoothly. I managed to work right up until the day before giving birth, resting for just one day before welcoming my child into the world. The moment I saw his face, all the effort and anticipation felt incredibly worthwhile. It was a truly wonderful experience

Balancing work and motherhood is undoubtedly a challenge, but I believe all women possess a unique superpower that enables us to manage both. Returning to work has been a positive experience, with my colleagues being extremely understanding and supportive of my new situation. This support has allowed me to continue performing at my best, making both my work family and home family happy.

The most enjoyable moments with my bundle of joy are countless, but the simple act of holding him tightly, kissing his chubby cheeks, and telling him how much I love him means everything to me. These precious moments make all the challenges worthwhile.

Davane

Sandals Royal Caribbean

Cocktail:

Love

Ingredients:

Ice

Absolut

Absolut

Melon Liqueur

Pears

Rasberri

Pineapple Juice

an exciting glimpse of the

awaiting them

Chef Trisane

demonstrates how to cook ackee and saltfish to guests at the resort’s meet and greet, sharing the flavours of Jamaica with warmth and expertise.

Jose Antonio of the Entertainment team at Beaches Negril Resort and Spa proudly showcases the vibrant tie-dye shirts made for guests, adding a burst of colour and fun to their vacations.

Senior Sous Chef Keigon Martin showcases his impressive salad tossing skills at the Green Machine Salads & Bowls food truck located at Beaches Negril Resort and Spa. Martin prepares a fresh and savory dish for guests to enjoy.

Blake

Watersports team member at Beaches Negril, Damon Thompson demonstrates his kayaking prowess, offering guests

adventure

on the serene Seven Mile Beach.

Keron Pyne of Beaches Ocho Rios takes great pride in manicuring the lawn on Labour Day at Labyrinth Primary School.

Kenka Llewellyn and Naomi Thorney from Loyalty & Travel at Beaches Ocho Rios flash a wide smile in their new uniforms just before a special treat from Team Human Resources.

Kadian Bennett from the Front Office at Beaches Ocho Rios continues to share flyers with her team after attending the recent mental wellness presentation held at the resort’s newly renovated restaurant, ‘SimmerDown’.

company

and Spa Receptionist Wordy Saintamour during Managers’

2. Celebrating Sandals Corporate University Day 2024 at Beaches Turks and Caicos, (l-r) Leteacher Ennis, Security and Loss Prevention Manager; Romain Roache, Entertainment Supervisor and Patricia Smith, Guest Experience Manager were all smiles as they explored options available for learning and development for each team member.

3. Dancers from the Entertainment Department at Beaches Turks and Caicos, Andis Hiraldo (left) and Yenifer Batista, strike a pose while they welcome guests at the Italian Village Poolside.

4. Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Front of House ladies were in for a treat as they share a moment with the cameras and enjoy a fine dining event with a sip and paint activity at the Key West Village.

1. Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Hotel Manager, Ghislain Boutoulle (left) found himself in Red Lane Spa

with spa therapists (l-r) Altersia Navarro, Phoebe Manlunas, and Charisse Ringpis, along with Spa Attendant Youseka Metayer

Jamboree at the Italian Village Poolside.

1. Happy Mother’s Day from Sandals Barbados.

2. Sandals Barbados’ General Manager Surinder ‘Lucky’ Kahlon was among those at the St Lawrence Primary School admiring the mural painted in celebration of Sandals Foundation’s 15th anniversary.

3. Selfie time! Local photographer Reco Moore was quick to get a shot of some of the journalist and media associates during a media appreciation brunch hosted by the Sandals Barbados PR Department.

4. Smiles all around! Sandals Royal Barbados Spa Therapists Shana Inniss-Williams and Krystal D’Hayle-Lowe were pleased to catch-up with their former instructor and welcome present students of the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology’s Massage Therapy Programme to the renowned Red Lane® Spa.

5. Champions! Congratulations to the Sandals Barbados Sports & Social Club’s football team who dominated the over-40s division in the recently held Barbados International Football Masters Competition.

1. Roxanne Brown, the Learning and Development Manager at Sandals Dunn’s River, gracefully poses in celebration of International HR Day!

2. The Sandals Dunn’s River team bids a heartfelt farewell to the renowned singer Jordin Sparks, following her well-deserved vacation in paradise.

3. Tameca Sutherland-Franklyn, the distinguished Human Resources Manager at Sandals Dunn’s River, gracefully embodies the spirit of International HR Day, honoring the unsung heroes who tirelessly nurture and empower the workforce with their dedication and expertise.

4. Captured in this moment are the Sandals Dunn’s River team members alongside General Manager Deryk Meany, united in their dedication to shaping future leaders of Sandals.

1 - 4. Sandals Emerald Bay had a heartwarming Mother’s Day celebration with buffet meals at La Parisienne and Il Cielo, served by the male managers. Moms got gifts and prizes, with special shout-outs to the Most Blessed, Most Recent, and Most Experienced Mothers, making the day extra special and fun for everyone.

5. The Sandals Foundation recently made a significant contribution to the Exuma Community Youth Marching Band by providing much-needed uniforms and instruments. Mr. Kelalrico Burrows, the Band Director, emphasized the importance of this donation, stating, “The uniforms and instruments are an important part of the band’s operation. Outfitting the members helps to instill discipline for the expected level of excellence."

6. Sandals Emerald Bay played a significant role as a Silver Sponsor of the 68th National Family Island Regatta, a celebrated event highlighting the Bahamas’ national sport of sloop sailing. This regatta is a crucial part of Bahamian cultural heritage, and the resort’s involvement underscores its commitment to supporting local traditions and community events. The resort’s General Manager, Mr. Jeremy Mutton, was honored among the community’s outstanding members for his exemplary community relations and service. His recognition reflects Sandals Emerald Bay’s dedication to fostering strong ties with the local community and contributing positively to its cultural and social fabric.

1. An anchor in the kitchen at Sandals Grenada, Joan Smart was elated to see Chief Operations Officer, Shawn DaCosta on his most recent visit to resort. The feeling is mutual.

2. Bright and beautiful, Sandals Grenada Recruiter, Coretta Bertrand and Learning & Development Manager Shanice Seale were ready to start the day at the St George’s University job fair for undergraduate students.

3. It’s another day out on the clear blue in Grenada for Captain Shawn Mark! He’s ever ready to deliver the safest service with a smile!

4. Can you spot the PR Manager and the photographer? Deleon Forrester, PR Manager at Sandals Grenada and Neil Morain, Photographer, were recently treated to a school lunch while visiting the St Andrew’s RC School. The school has a new kitchen with new cookers and kitchenware provided by the Sandals Foundation.

5. Aqua Center divers at Sandals Grenada recently found turtles entangled in a seemingly abandoned fishing net. Fortunately, they were able to rescue the turtles with swift assistance from members of Ocean Spirits, a turtle conservation group.

1. Team members at Sandals Regency La Toc recently came together to honour their colleagues who are mothers. They held a special recognition and appreciation event for Mother’s Day, which started with a warm gathering, where team members shared stories and expressed gratitude for the dedication and care shown by these remarkable women. Throughout the day, team members were treated to thoughtful gestures, such as spa vouchers for well-deserved relaxation and delicious meals served in a festive atmosphere.

2. Excitement rippled through the halls of Sandals Regency La Toc as the Cost Control Department emerged victorious in the annual EarthCheck audit quiz hosted by the EHS Department. With their sharp wit and thorough knowledge of sustainability practices, the team clinched the top spot, earning a significant cash prize and boasting well-deserved pride.

3 - 4. At Sandals Regency La Toc, a sumptuous lunch extravaganza unfolded in honour of Global Travel Advisor Day, celebrating the invaluable partnership with travel advisors who bring guests from around the globe to experience the resort’s unparalleled luxury. The event, held in a picturesque setting overlooking the Caribbean Sea, featured an array of delectable dishes crafted by the resort’s top chefs, showcasing the culinary excellence for which Sandals is renowned.

PICTURE PERFECT

1. Tamara Brown (left) and Sashana Joahire from the Sandals Montego Bay team create a small garden at the Jamaica Christian School for the Deaf on Labour Day.

2. Sandals Montego Bay Human Resource Manager Anecia Pryce thoroughly enjoyed reading to the children of Green Pond Primary on Read Across Jamaica Day.

3. It was all smiles for the ladies of Catherine Hall Basic School as they chatted with Entertainment Coordinator Scion (centre) while on their complimentary Day Pass for Teachers’ Day at Sandals Montego Bay.

4. Sandals Montego Bay Entertainment Coordinator & 23’ Digicel Rising Star winner Remone shut the house down at the recently held Caribbean Hospitality Tourism Association event hosted at the Flagship resort.

1. Sales Executive, Shanee King gladly rakes the compound of the West End Early Childhood Institute during the resort’s Labour Day project.

2. Bartender/Cocktail Waitress at Sandals Negril Tasheca Samuels, crafts an exquisite cocktail for guests at the resort’s main bar, adding a touch of island flair and flavour to their experience.

3. Andre Dennis, barber at Sandals Negril Resort and Spa, beams with joy as he lays the finishing touches on Chief Engineer Carl Nelson’s fresh haircut.

Sandals Foundation Ambassador and Earth Guardian at Sandals Royal Bahamian, Verline Bannister was on hand to assist in a beach cleanup put on by the team recently. Together, they removed over 300lbs of trash from the shorelines.

Tabitha (left) and Shanice, from the Food & Beverage Department at Sandals Royal Bahamian were very happy campers as they walked away with some really cool gifts at the resort’s Mother’s Day event for staff.

Environment, Health and Safety Manager, Lamar Sterling was captured with a member of the Checkpoint Incentive Group that was vacationing at Sandals Royal Bahamian. They both participated in a beach cleanup conducted by the resort team.

Sandals Royal Bahamian’s Andrea Bethell was all smiles as she got ready to partake in a delectable Mother’s Day meal. She was being served by Assistant Food & Beverage Manager, Cherie-Anne Charles. Both ladies had a blast on their special day.

1. Shining at Sandals Ochi's Quarterly Prestige Awards is Team Engineering. In celebration of their honour, the winners, Damion Russell – General Manager’s Award, Junior Johnson – Mover & Shaker Award, and Shermaine Brown – Diamond Team Member, flooded the stage with their managers and coworkers.

2. Darnell Francis, Tarique McGhie, and Victor Henry embodied love in all they did, from their branded Sandals Foundation shirts to their labour of love on Labour Day, as evidenced by their dedication and passion for beautifying the Labyrinth Primary School.

3. During a special Mother's Day celebration at Sandals Ochi, Tanya Williams from Human Resources happily hands a Mother's Day token to Cameal Foster from the Kitchen Department.

Cuteness Overload!

Little Chef meets big Chef as Sandals Royal Caribbean’s Executive Sous Chef Nixon met his biggest fan at the Whitehouse Early Childhood Career Day.

Deana-Kaye Downer of Golden Steps Academy was very impressed by Sandals Royal Caribbean Hotel Manager Peron Sepersaud who served her welcome drink to kickstart her complimentary day pass for Teachers’ Day!

Sandals Royal Caribbean’s Alyssa (left) and Rochelle (right) were clearly feeling the ‘love’ as they painted at the Jamaica Christian School for the Deaf on Labour Day.

was certainly a fan-favourite as she read to the students of Green Pond Primary on Read Across Jamaica Day.

Beloved Sandals Royal Caribbean General Manager Dawn Smith

1. The men of Sandals Royal Plantation looking sharp as they take a moment to embody their regal charm.

2. Team members from Sandals Royal Plantation, alongside our esteemed General Manager Omar Robinson, are celebrating Teachers’ Day in style by honoring our dedicated educators!

3. Tajay Walker, the Environment, Health, and Safety Manager at Sandals Royal Plantation, goes above and beyond by serving champagne to our mothers on Mother’s Day, making it a truly memorable occasion!

4. Mothers at Sandals Royal Plantation were all smiles with the exceptional treatment and service they receive this Mother’s Day!

1. “Girls just wanna have fun!” Sani Smith from the Sandals South Coast Engineering team posed for a quick photo with the ladies of Black River Primary School at their Girl’s Day celebration.

2. Sometimes we need a reminder that “everything’s gonna be alright,” and Kemeisha Noble (left) and Venessa Fenlator from the Sandals South Coast resort shop, are not afraid to sing the sweet words of Bob!

3. Tracy-Ann Bourne is a lover of athletics and never misses the chance to put her running shoes on, so there was no doubt that she would be out representing Sandals South Coast at this year’s staging of the Jill Stewart Mobay City Run.

4. Environment, Health and Safety Manager at Sandals South Coast, Vilma Smith was most excited to install the words encouragement signs created by the team for the Peace Garden Labour Day initiative at Black River Primary School.

5. Owen Brown from the Sandals South Coast entertainment team posed for a quick photo with Jean Brown from the Negril Education Environment Trust (N.E.E.T.), who was awarded with the top prize for the longest serving educator.

PICTURE PERFECT

The HR Department at Sandals Royal Curaçao held a photo session with the Epix team on HR Day. The photos captured the vibrant spirit and camaraderie that define our workplace. Smiling faces, shared laughter, and moments of genuine connection were all beautifully documented.

The Club Sandals team at Sandals Royal Curaçao recently hosted a fantastic event for all the incredible moms and motherly figures visiting the resort. From the beautifully decorated venue to the array of delectable treats, every detail was meticulously planned to ensure a magical day. Guests were greeted with a warm smile and a refreshing welcome drink, setting the tone for the afternoon.

The Reception team at Sandals Royal Curaçao recently showcased their new uniforms, and our female team members looked stunning. The elegant design and rich colours of the uniforms complemented team’s vibrancy, and brought a sense of unity and pride to the group. The men, not to be outdone, wore their sharp suits with an air of confidence, completing the sophisticated ensemble.