Shonna Quammie

Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

Global MBA - International Business, Hospitality, Sports & Leisure Management

London School of Business & Finance (Online), London, United Kingdom

Grant Awardee 2014

Dear CTO Scholarship Foundation,

As As an executive member of the Nature Isle Toastmasters Club—an affiliate of Toastmasters International, a global organization dedicated to developing strong communicators and leaders—I’ve taken on a range of responsibilities, from spearheading marketing and public relations initiatives to mentoring emerging leaders. These experiences have greatly enriched my professional journey in the hospitality industry, while also fostering my growth as a confident, purpose-driven industry advocate.

A core part of my career vision involves collaborating with key stakeholders such as the CTO, CHTA, and other regional HTAs to create meaningful, sustainable opportunities that elevate the tourism and hospitality sector—especially in positioning the Caribbean, and Dominica in particular, as the premier destination of choice.

I extend heartfelt thanks to the CTO Foundation for continuing to open doors for financially constrained but deeply passionate individuals like myself. I am honored to have received a Study Grant to pursue a Global MBA in International Business, Hospitality, Sports, and Leisure Management—a program that aligns perfectly with both my current role and long-term aspirations.

At the end of 2013, I felt ready to further my studies without stepping away from my career. I am proud to serve as one of the few local managers at the only five-star resort on my island—recognized by the World Travel Awards as ‘St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Leading Spa Resort’ and ‘Caribbean’s Leading New Hotel.’ As a member of the Executive Committee overseeing operations, I was motivated to pursue higher education to deepen my impact on the resort’s continued growth and to advance in leadership within the service industry.

With a foundation in Accounting, earning an MBA in International Business, Hospitality, Sports, and Leisure Management will enable me to contribute more strategically to national development. It’s a stepping stone toward my dream of becoming a Chief Operations Officer, fully equipped to navigate global markets, manage cultural diversity, and lead with vision in the international business landscape.

Receiving the CTO Foundation scholarship means more than financial support—it is a meaningful validation of my potential to become a builder of both nation and industry. Higher education can often feel financially out of reach, but this scholarship removes a major barrier, allowing me to invest in my future and fulfill my commitment to service leadership.

To the CTO Foundation Inc., I offer my sincerest gratitude for believing in me, supporting my path, and empowering my contribution to the future of Caribbean tourism.