Excitement is mounting as the Saint Lucia Tourism Awards enters its fourth year, officially unveiling the top nine finalists competing for this year’s coveted GIMIES People’s Choice Award.
The award, one of the most anticipated segments of the annual GIMIES ceremony, recognises outstanding individuals who have made exceptional contributions to visitor experiences, innovation, and community impact within the tourism sector. It also places the power directly in the hands of the public, allowing travellers, guests, and community members to honour those who have delivered remarkable service and left a lasting impression.
Following a competitive nomination period marked by strong public engagement, the selected finalists have now advanced to the online voting stage. Supporters are being encouraged to cast their votes to determine which three finalists will ultimately take home the GIMIES People’s Choice title at this year’s awards ceremony.
Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire underscored the significance of the awards in driving continuous improvement within the sector.
“Since the inception of the Saint Lucia Tourism Awards, the GIMIES, the commitment to ongoing progress and enhancement within the tourism sector has been a driving force behind the event’s annual achievements,” Hilaire said. “This dedication to improvement has fostered a culture where participants notably improve their service, resulting in a noticeable elevation in the quality of nominations each year.”
Judges preparing for the fourth edition have also observed a marked level of growth among participants. Organisers noted that several individuals and organisations who were previously unsuccessful have returned stronger, demonstrating measurable progress and a renewed commitment to excellence. This evolution, they say, reflects the resilience of Saint Lucia’s tourism industry and its unwavering pursuit of higher standards.
The nine finalists vying for the 2026 GIMIES People’s Choice Award are:
Akim Francis – Chef, “Bursting with Flavour aka 5 Star”
Avelyn Joseph – Owner, Happy Nest
Elver Descartes – Tour Guide, ATV Direct
Heidi St. Clair – Owner, St. Clear’s Sitting Services
Iva La Toya Lewis – Celebrity Makeup Artist, Glamour Art By Toya
Kirk Elliot – Community-Based Tourism Entrepreneur, St Lucia by Kirk
Michel Gaspard – Civil Status Marriage Officer (Freelancer)
Ngugi Lucien – Vegan Chef, Grassrootz Vegan Cuisine
Shervon Charles – Tour Guide, Unique Stables 758
Voting is now officially open and will close on March 31, 2026. Members of the public are encouraged to follow the official GIMIES Facebook and Instagram pages to submit their votes and support their favourite nominee.
As anticipation builds toward the awards ceremony, organisers have confirmed that several key industry and corporate partners have pledged their support, reinforcing the collective commitment to celebrating and elevating tourism excellence in Saint Lucia.
