Tourism is more than just arrivals and departures. It is the heartbeat of our national identity, a rhythm sustained by the passion, resilience, and vision of our women. This International Women’s Day, Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL) is proud to present "Give to Gain," a special commemorative series that listens to the heartbeat of our industry through the stories of the women who define it.   Over four days, we journey through the many layers of Trinidad & Tobago’s tourism landscape, guided by the voices of four remarkable women each day. They are the innovators, the guardians, the storytellers, and the diplomats who give so much of themselves to enrich the experience of every visitor and, in turn, gain a deeper purpose for themselves and their communities.   Day 1: The Trailblazers Our journey begins with those who are forging new paths and reshaping the boundaries of our industry. Ariene Ng Fong invites us to look to the sea, proving that innovation and technical brilliance are the new currents of our blue economy. As Co-Lead of Play Hooky 868, she embodies the spirit that the sea knows no gender. Alongside her, (Iya) Akilah Jaramogi stands as the guardian of our green future. Through her work as Executive Director of the FACRP, she reminds us that giving back to the earth is our greatest investment, nurturing the spiritual heart of our hillsides.   We then turn to those who have spent decades mastering the art of welcome. Gunda Busch–Harewood, Founder of Island Experiences, has spent 30 years bridging worlds, refining the authentic encounter into a craft. Her life's work is a testament to the power of genuine connection. And in the kitchen, Chef Brigette Joseph treats every plate as a diplomat. A true architect of culinary diplomacy, she ensures our cuisine cements Trinidad’s place as the gastronomy capital of the Caribbean.   Day 2: The Keepers of Heritage On the second day, we meet the women who ensure our stories are never lost and our traditions continue to thrive. Cheri-Ann Pascall is more than a guide; with 25 years of heart-led hospitality, she is a living archive, translating the soul of our nation for the world. Further inland, in the historic Lopinot Valley, The Guerrero Sisters of Café Mariposa are cultivating a legacy. They honor their family's deep cocoa-growing roots, creating a sustainable model of agri-tourism that nourishes both the land and the community.   Their neighbor, Donna Mora, is the driving force behind that very community. As CEO of the Lopinot Tourism Association, she champions grassroots strength, ensuring that the benefits of heritage tourism flow directly to the residents who are its heart. And capturing it all is Franka Philip, a journalist who understands that a destination’s true flavor is found in its stories. Through her work in tourism media, she shares the soul of our hospitality, highlighting our unique festivals and flavors with dignity and depth.   Be on the lookout for days 3 and 4 of this series.

Follow the series live on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.