In celebration of International Tourist Guide Day, observed annually on February 21, the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) proudly presents this special edition of Season 3, Episode 2 of its Unveiling Hospitality Professionals series.
This episode recognizes Ms. Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP — Accredited Trainer and Tour Director on behalf of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) — for her outstanding contribution to the tourism industry and her unwavering commitment to excellence in tour guiding for more than twenty-four (24) years.
Born and raised in Bolans, Ms. Cleo Henry developed strong professional values from an early age, shaped by a disciplined and service-oriented family foundation. Her mother served as a kindergarten teacher for over 37 years, instilling in her the importance of education, articulation, and poise, while her father dedicated more than 50 years to the hospitality industry as a chauffeur, exemplifying commitment, professionalism, and pride in service.
As a teenager, Ms. Henry assisted her father with transportation services, dispatching guests from Jolly Beach and gaining firsthand exposure to the tourism industry. Even at that early stage, she understood the importance of presentation and professionalism, principles that would later become hallmarks of her career in tourism.
Photo Caption: Ms. Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP — Accredited Trainer and Tour Director on behalf of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA)
Straight out of secondary school Ms. Henry enrolled at the Hotel Training Centre, where she benefited from the mentorship of industry leader Muriel Omarde, whose encouragement strengthened her confidence and propelled her pursuit of excellence.
Ms. Henry began her professional career as a tour guide with Tropical Adventures in 2002. Eager to expand her expertise, she later attended the Regional Train-the-Trainer Course in Dominica. In 2016, she further enhanced her credentials as an accredited tourist guide & trainer in Cyprus, broadening her global perspective and strengthening her capacity to deliver world-class experiences.
Ms. Cleo Henry has trained hundreds of tourism professionals locally and regionally in Tour Planning, Guiding and Operations, strengthening industry standards. In 2018, she collaborated with the Ministry of Tourism to pilot a Certified On-Site Tourist Guide Training Programme for their staff and tour operators, enhancing destination knowledge of Antigua and Barbuda.
In 2024, she was conferred the Global Executive Master’s in Hospitality Leadership in Paris, France, further expanding her global network and reinforcing her commitment to elevating industry standards at home and abroad.
Today, she holds the distinction of being the only member and accredited trainer in Antigua and Barbuda certified by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA). This prestigious certification underscores her commitment to international standards and to elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism product on the global stage.
Further demonstrating her impact on the industry, Ms. Henry facilitates the ongoing Service Ambassador Training programme, a partnership with Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board and the Muriel O’Marde Campus to equip taxi and tour operators, vendors, and other frontline stakeholders with the professionalism and customer care skills needed to represent the destination with excellence.
Ms. Henry’s mission is to leave a positive legacy grounded in resilience, hard work, dedication, and commitment, qualities she believes are essential for longevity in the business of tour guiding.
Looking ahead, Ms. Henry is passionate about mentoring the next generation. She encourages young tourism professionals to refine their skills, pursue continuous training, and carry forward the mantle of excellence in representing Antigua and Barbuda.
Ms. Cleo Henry’s story is one of perseverance, professionalism, and purpose, a true reflection of excellence in Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector.
Watch the stories unfold—each episode premieres every two weeks on Tuesday and Thursday on ABHTA’s YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram platforms (@AntiguaHotels). Join us in celebrating the people who shape and strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality industry.
Watch Ms. Cleo Henry’s Untold Story Here:
ABOUT THE ABHTA
The ABHTA collectively represents the hospitality industry by educating, advocating and promoting to increase visitation and the economic benefits for Antigua and Barbuda. The primary focus is on the needs and best interests of the members of the Association. The membership of the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association is open to all hotels, restaurants, airlines, and companies directly or indirectly involved in the tourism sector of Antigua and Barbuda. Joining the Association is a way of showing your support of the island’s tourism product and helping us to further develop our tourism industry.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
