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DHTA Official Website
  • Home
  • Tourism in Dominica
  • About Us
  • Events
  • Support DHTA
  • Industry Updates

OUR PURPOSE

The Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA) plays a crucial role in promoting and enhancing Dominica’s tourism sector. Here are the key purposes and functions of the DHTA:

 Advocacy and Leadership: The DHTA advocates for the tourism industry, representing members’ interests and promoting high-quality training.

Industry Development: It contributes to Dominica’s sustainable tourism growth through continuous learning and innovation.

Information Hub: The DHTA provides centralized information on tourism trends and best practices.

Enhancing Guest Experiences: Workshops and networking events uplift service standards.

Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with stakeholders benefits Dominica’s hospitality sector. 

In summary, the DHTA’s mission is to ensure the sustainable growth of Dominica’s tourism sector, benefiting both its members and the island’s visitors.

About DOMINICA HOTEL & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

OUR HISTORY

 The Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA) is a non-profit organization providing centralized and innovative information, advocacy, and leadership for the tourism industry in Dominica. First established in 1972 and operating as a membership-based tourism development organization for over four decades, the Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association is a focal point for the tourism industry in Dominica. DHTA assumes a leadership role in the industry, and acts as a catalyst for enabling Dominica’s tourism economy to reach its full potential to the benefit of our current and future members, visitors, investors and travel partners, citizens and the Commonwealth of Dominica. 

OUR GOALS

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OUR TEAM

The Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA) is governed by a Board comprised of 8 elected members a, each of whom have volunteered to lead various directorships of the association for a term of one year.

There is also an office staff which includes an Executive Vice President, as well as office Admin and support positions.

About DHTA Official Website

PRESIDENT

Kitwani N. C. Ferreira is a business strategist, tourism advocate, and management consultant with more than fifteen years of experience driving business development, stakeholder engagement, and organizational growth across multiple sectors, including tourism, hospitality, transportation, agriculture, and financial services. Her work is rooted in building strategic partnerships that support sustainable economic development and strengthen private sector competitiveness.

As President of the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA), Kitwani provides leadership on industry advocacy, destination development, and member engagement. She works closely with tourism stakeholders, government agencies, and private sector partners to advance initiatives that strengthen Dominica's tourism product, improve industry collaboration, and support sustainable growth. Her leadership has contributed to important discussions surrounding tourism policy, workforce development, economic resilience, and destination competitiveness.

In addition to her role with the DHTA, Kitwani serves as Manager of Island Car Rental, Chief Business Development Consultant at AYL Consultants, and Founder of Nature Island Katuri, an initiative focused on agriculture-based tourism experiences and value-added agricultural enterprises. Holding a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business and Management from Regent's University London, along with certifications in leadership, hospitality and tourism management, logistics, digital marketing, and renewable energy regulation, she brings a multidisciplinary perspective to tourism development.

Kitwani remains committed to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and meaningful partnerships that contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of Dominica's tourism industry.

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Gregor Nassief is one of Dominica’s leading tourism and business innovators, recognized for his commitment to sustainable development, hospitality excellence, and community impact. A Dominican entrepreneur with a background in finance and software engineering from New York University, he is the founder and CEO of Cerca Technology, a regional technology company serving clients across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Gregor is the visionary behind Secret Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most acclaimed luxury resorts, consistently recognized among the region’s top hospitality experiences. He also serves as CEO of Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort and leads GEMS Holdings Limited, which manages several of Dominica’s premier hospitality and real estate properties.

A respected tourism leader, Gregor recently made history as the first Dominican appointed President of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, a milestone that reflects his longstanding contributions to regional tourism development and destination leadership. He also serves as Regional Vice President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association and is a former President of the Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association and former Deputy Chairman of the Discover Dominica Authority.

Gregor brings extensive expertise in hospitality operations, destination competitiveness, and sustainable tourism growth. His leadership continues to help shape a stronger, more innovative tourism industry for Dominica and the wider Caribbean.

DIRECTOR OF ACCOMMODATIONS

Avril Coipel is an accomplished hospitality executive and business leader with extensive experience in tourism management, information technology, statistics, banking, and organizational development. Since 2019, she has served as General Manager of Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa, where she has successfully guided the property through a period of growth and transformation while championing sustainable tourism and exceptional guest experiences.

A respected leader within the tourism industry, Avril served as Vice President of the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA) from 2020 before being elected President in 2021. Following the completion of her term in 2026, she continues to support the Association's work as a Director of Accommodation, bringing valuable institutional knowledge and strategic insight to the Board.

With academic qualifications in Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Statistics, and Chartered Banking, Avril has built a diverse career spanning the public sector, software development, banking, education, and hospitality. Her expertise in strategic planning, technology integration, data-driven decision-making, and business continuity has been instrumental in strengthening organizational performance and resilience.

As Director of Accommodation for the DHTA, Avril is committed to supporting the growth and competitiveness of Dominica’s accommodation sector while advancing initiatives that enhance service standards, sustainability, and the overall visitor experience.

DISCOVER DOMINICA AUTHORITY CEO

Marva Williams is an accomplished tourism executive, marketer, and event strategist with more than 15 years of experience in destination marketing, tourism development, brand management, and event production. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Tourism at the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), where she leads the strategic positioning and promotion of Dominica as the Caribbean’s premier nature, culture, and adventure destination.

Throughout her career, Marva has played a pivotal role in shaping Dominica’s tourism and entertainment landscape. During her tenure as Festival and Events Manager at the Discover Dominica Authority, she led the revitalization of several of the island’s signature events, including the World Creole Music Festival and Dominica Carnival, introducing innovative concepts that enhanced visitor experiences and strengthened destination visibility.

Prior to her appointment as CEO and Director of Tourism, she served as Marketing Manager at Digicel Dominica, where she gained extensive experience in strategic marketing, operations management, brand development, and commercial growth.

Marva holds a Master of International Business from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Florida International University. She is also a part-time lecturer at the University of the West Indies, where she teaches Event Management and Digital Brand Management.

A passionate advocate for sustainable tourism and community development, Marva is focused on expanding Dominica’s global tourism footprint through strategic partnerships, innovative marketing, product development, and enhanced visitor experiences. Her leadership continues to contribute to the growth, competitiveness, and long-term success of Dominica’s tourism industry.

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & FUNDRAISING

Delwin James is a seasoned finance and hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience in accounting, financial management, operations, and business development within Dominica’s tourism sector. His career began at Fort Young Hotel, where he built a strong foundation in hospitality finance before advancing to leadership roles across several of the island’s leading organizations, including GEMS Holdings Ltd., Digicel Dominica, and Jungle Bay Resort & Spa.

Throughout his career, Delwin has combined financial expertise with operational leadership, helping organizations improve performance, enhance efficiency, and deliver exceptional guest experiences. He has also represented Dominica’s hospitality industry at regional forums, including CHIEF Talks in Miami and Barbados, contributing to discussions on innovation, sustainability, and the future of Caribbean tourism.

Currently serving as Food and Beverage Manager at Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, Delwin brings a practical understanding of both financial stewardship and hospitality operations. As Director of Finance and Fundraising for the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA), he is committed to strengthening financial sustainability, fostering strategic partnerships, and supporting initiatives that drive the continued growth and competitiveness of Dominica’s tourism industry.

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Jael Joseph is an award-winning communications professional, media personality, producer, and digital strategist with more than 15 years of experience in marketing, public relations, content development, and brand storytelling across the Caribbean and diaspora. Recognized as the 2025 Dominica Music Awards Social Media Influencer of the Year, she has built a strong reputation for creating impactful content that promotes Caribbean culture, tourism, entrepreneurship, and community development.

As founder of Black Island Girl Multimedia and host of Jael Joseph LIVE, she has worked with tourism stakeholders, hospitality brands, regional organizations, and international agencies to develop communications campaigns, digital content, and audience engagement strategies that drive visibility and strengthen brand reputation. An award-winning filmmaker and experienced event host, Jael brings expertise in public relations, destination marketing, stakeholder engagement, and storytelling.

As Director of Public Relations for the Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA), she is committed to elevating the voice of the tourism sector, strengthening industry partnerships, and showcasing Dominica as a premier destination through strategic communications and innovative marketing initiatives.

DIRECTOR OF TOURISM SERVICES

Michael Eugene is a highly respected tourism development professional with decades of experience in destination planning, product development, community tourism, and tour guide training. A Chemical Engineer by profession with additional training in Project Management and Entrepreneurship, Michael has played a pivotal role in shaping Dominica's nature and adventure tourism sector.

He served as Product Development Specialist for the development of the iconic Waitukubuli National Trail, helping to create and establish one of the Caribbean's premier hiking experiences while supporting community-based tourism opportunities along the route. Michael is also a certified Tour Guide Trainer through the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and has trained numerous tourism professionals across Dominica.

His expertise has been sought regionally and internationally through guest lectures with Seabourn Cruise Line and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), where he has shared insights on heritage, rural, and community tourism development. Through his work with local communities, tourism service providers, and indigenous tourism initiatives, Michael has consistently championed sustainable and authentic visitor experiences.

As Director of Tourism Services for the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA), Michael brings invaluable knowledge of Dominica's tourism product and is committed to strengthening service standards, enhancing visitor experiences, and supporting the sustainable growth of the destination.

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP

Hubert Winston is one of Dominica’s most accomplished tourism and business leaders, with decades of experience advancing the island’s marine, yachting, and visitor economy. A visionary entrepreneur, he has been instrumental in positioning Dominica as a premier Caribbean yachting destination, introducing several industry firsts including the island’s first marine fueling dock, marine chandlery, yacht club, marine center, and marine association.

As Managing Director of the Dominica Marine Center and founder of multiple successful tourism and marine enterprises, Hubert has played a critical role in expanding tourism services, strengthening industry partnerships, and creating new opportunities for visitors and stakeholders alike. He also leads Waitukubuli Adventure Tour Company, one of Dominica’s largest tour operators, providing marine and land-based experiences that connect visitors with the island’s natural and cultural attractions.

Holding an MBA in Finance and International Business from the University of Miami, Hubert combines strategic business expertise with a deep commitment to tourism development. As Director of Membership for the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA), he is focused on strengthening member engagement, fostering collaboration across the industry, and ensuring the Association continues to deliver value and support for its growing membership.

DIRECTOR OF RELATED SERVICES

Alice James is a dynamic business leader with experience spanning the automotive, tourism, and aviation sectors in Dominica. As Acting General Manager at Auto Trade Ltd., she oversees operational performance, customer experience, and organizational development, driving initiatives that improve efficiency, service quality, and business growth.

Alice is also the founder of SkyIsle Visuals, a creative media brand dedicated to showcasing Dominica through innovative aerial storytelling. Through this work, she has collaborated with tourism stakeholders and businesses to highlight the island’s landscapes, attractions, and visitor experiences, contributing to destination promotion and brand visibility.

Recognized for her collaborative leadership style and ability to build strong, trust-based relationships, Alice brings a strategic perspective to stakeholder engagement and partnership development. As Director of Membership for the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA), she is committed to strengthening connections between tourism and allied industries, fostering collaboration among service providers, and supporting initiatives that enhance the overall visitor experience and competitiveness of Dominica’s tourism sector.

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