The Bahamas Celebrates Emerging Youth Leaders in Tourism at the 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition Finals
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The Bahamas Celebrates Emerging Youth Leaders in Tourism at the 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition Finals
NASSAU, Bahamas (May 4, 2026) - The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has announced the winners of its 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition following the national finals held in New Providence. After a compelling showcase of talent, leadership and vision, Raia Cargill was named the 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism.
The country’s newest youth tourism ambassador, Raia Cargill was one of 13 outstanding 11th grade students who made it to the championships of the Ministry’s signature annual competition, representing the islands of New Providence, Cat Island, Inagua, Long Island, Eleuthera, Acklins, Abaco, the Berry Islands, San Salvador, Andros, Mayaguana, Exuma, Grand Bahama and Bimini.
The finalists explored how music, film and the wider creative industries can serve as powerful drivers of tourism while supporting local talent and communities. In the process, they articulated solutions that support sustainable growth—while responding to real-time questions and sharpening their public speaking, critical thinking and leadership skills.
Competition Results:
- 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism Raia Cargill, Sunland Baptist Academy, Grand Bahama
- First Runner-Up: Adrian Lightbourne, Inagua All Age, Inagua
- Second Runner-Up: Valentino Lloyd Jr., Aquinas College, New Providence
This year’s competition reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to cultivating future tourism leaders who champion innovation, cultural awareness and sustainable growth in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
“This competition signals a clear national priority,” The Honourable I. Chester Copper, Minister of Tourism Aviation & Investments said. “We’re developing leaders who know sustainable growth is non-negotiable, that our culture is a competitive advantage worth protecting, and that opportunity must be shared across every island and community. These young Bahamians are stepping up with vision and confidence. They prove the future of tourism isn’t a distant plan; it’s being shaped right now by the voices we’re hearing today.”
The Bahamas continues to experience record visitor arrivals, welcoming 12.5 million visitors in 2025, the highest number ever recorded. Sustaining that momentum requires intentional investment in people, and initiatives such as the Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition play a vital role in preparing the next generation to lead, innovate and safeguard the future of the industry.
“The perspectives being shared by our youth go beyond the classroom,” said Director General Latia Duncombe. “They reflect the kind of innovation, cultural awareness and community-minded leadership that will keep our tourism sector vibrant and globally competitive. When we create space for young Bahamians to think critically and lead with confidence, we invest in a future that is stronger, more inclusive and deeply rooted in who we are.”
Following the conclusion of the 2026 finals, BMOTIA congratulates all participants for their outstanding performances and thanks educators, families, partners and supporters for helping to elevate youth voices across the archipelago.
As The Bahamas continues to welcome the world, initiatives such as the Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition reflect a national commitment to developing talent, strengthening the industry and ensuring that tourism’s future remains innovative, resilient, sustainable and distinctly Bahamian.
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About The Bahamas:
The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travellers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram.
Media Contacts:
Rissie Demeritte
Director, Global Communications
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
Joshua Robins
Manager, Domestic Communications
jrobins@bahamas.com