Aliyyah Shakeer appointed as CTO Director of Research in Barbados
- Aliyyah Shakeer has been appointed as the new Director of Research for the Caribbean Tourism Organization.
- She has over 15 years of experience in tourism research and has held key positions in Trinidad and Tobago's tourism sector.
- Her expertise is expected to enhance the CTO's initiatives for sustainable tourism growth in the Caribbean.
On September 20, 2024, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) announced the appointment of Aliyyah Shakeer as its new Director of Research. Shakeer brings over 15 years of experience in tourism research, strategy development, and policy analysis, which will enhance the CTO's efforts in promoting sustainable tourism across the Caribbean. Her academic credentials include a Master of Arts in Tourism Destination Management, an MBA, and a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Management. Shakeer has previously held significant roles, including Manager of Planning and Research at the Tourism Development Company Limited in Trinidad and Tobago, and a Tourism Research and Policy Analyst at the Ministry of Tourism. In these positions, she contributed to the revision of the National Tourism Policy and managed donor relations as the International Technical Relations Coordinator at the Ministry of Digital Transformation. Dona Regis-Prosper, CEO and Secretary-General of the CTO, expressed confidence in Shakeer's ability to drive the organization's research initiatives, stating that her extensive experience will be crucial for developing a competitive and sustainable tourism industry in the Caribbean. Shakeer herself expressed enthusiasm for her new role, emphasizing her commitment to supporting member countries in navigating the evolving tourism landscape. The CTO anticipates that Shakeer's expertise will significantly impact the region's tourism research agenda, facilitating evidence-based decision-making that is essential for the ongoing success of Caribbean tourism. This appointment marks a strategic move towards strengthening the CTO's capabilities in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the tourism sector.