Saint Lucia Celebrates Female Entrepreneurs in Tourism for International Women’s Day, Highlighting Caribbean Innovation, Everything You Need to Know

Published on March 4, 2026

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In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) has recognized a group of female entrepreneurs who are at the forefront in shaping the island’s tourism industry. These women are not just providing unique experiences to travelers visiting the island, but they are also contributing to the communities on the island by integrating culture, adventure, and nature in their businesses.

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The island of Saint Lucia has a booming tourism industry due to the women who are providing travelers with more than just a normal holiday experience. By establishing businesses that incorporate the island’s cultural heritage and respect for nature, the female entrepreneurs on the island are contributing to its hospitality and tourism development. The tourism experiences offered on the island give travelers an opportunity to interact with the communities on the island, thus creating a sense of attachment to the island.

Amy Stephens: Pioneering Community Tourism in Anse La Raye

Amy Stephens is the co-founder of Pelican Tours, Saint Lucia’s first community-based tourism business in the village of Anse La Raye. Amy’s entrepreneurial journey began after a rich and diverse career that included living in Taiwan and learning Mandarin. She is a Board Director for the Cultural Development Foundation, representing young people in Saint Lucia.

Pelican Tours offers guided excursions in Anse La Raye, providing visitors with adventure-filled experiences like electric bike and kayak tours around the village. These eco-friendly excursions allow tourists to experience the local culture in a unique and sustainable way while supporting the local economy. Through her work, Amy is helping to put Anse La Raye on the map as a cultural destination for travellers.

Meveline Colmet Daage: Eco-Tourism Adventures in Praslin

Meveline Colmet Daage is the founder of Kayak on the Bay, an eco-tourism venture based in Praslin on Saint Lucia’s east coast. Prior to starting her business, Meveline worked in hospitality and customer service, where she developed a passion for combining education with adventure and environmental respect.

Kayak on the Bay offers guided and self-guided kayaking tours through Praslin’s pristine mangroves and bay waters. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with local sea moss farmers and learn about the endangered Whiptail lizard in its natural habitat. Meveline’s business blends adventure with environmental education, giving visitors a meaningful way to connect with nature while supporting sustainable tourism practices.

Helena Thomas: Promoting Agriculture and Sustainability in Babonneau

Helena Thomas, owner of In Bloom: Mother Nature’s Way Farm, is one of many women involved in the agricultural sector on Saint Lucia. Located in the rainforest of Chassin, Babonneau, Helena runs an organic farm and medicinal garden that attracts visitors interested in sustainable farming practices.

Helena is a proud member of ‘farmhers,’ an initiative that supports women farmers on the island, led by Helen’s Daughters, a non-profit organization. Her farm tours offer visitors the chance to explore her organic crops, as well as experience a demonstration on how to make her renowned nutmeg jam. Helena’s commitment to sustainable farming and community empowerment through agriculture is an integral part of the island’s tourism offerings.

Maylisa Catherine Alexander: Local Arts and Cuisine in Soufriere

Maylisa Catherine Alexander is the owner of Garmaii Boutique and Restaurant, a vibrant business located in Soufriere, Saint Lucia’s old capital. Her boutique is a hub for local artists, where visitors can purchase everything from handmade crafts to beautiful paintings and natural skincare products. The boutique also serves as a platform to showcase the rich artistic talent of Saint Lucia’s local community.

In addition to her boutique, Maylisa operates a restaurant that offers a variety of local dishes, providing tourists with an authentic taste of Saint Lucian cuisine. Her commitment to supporting local artists and entrepreneurs while offering visitors a cultural immersion through both food and art makes Garmaii a must-visit for tourists exploring Soufriere.

Bernadette Agdomar: Preserving Saint Lucian Craftsmanship

Bernadette Agdomar, the founder of Slim’s Weaving Haven, has dedicated her life to preserving Saint Lucia’s traditional craft of basket weaving. Located in Choiseul, a community renowned for its creativity, Bernadette works alongside her 80-year-old mother, who taught her the art of weaving from a young age.

Slim’s Weaving Haven offers visitors the chance to purchase beautiful handwoven baskets, table mats, and other items crafted with traditional techniques. Visitors can also experience the weaving process firsthand, and even try their hand at creating their own pieces. Bernadette’s work serves to preserve a significant aspect of Saint Lucia’s cultural heritage, while providing tourists with the opportunity to take home a piece of the island’s history.

Donna Calderon-Obeius: A Sanctuary for Relaxation in Vieux Fort

Donna Calderon-Obeius is the owner of Obeys Sanctuary, a bed and breakfast located in Black Bay, Vieux Fort. After a successful career in sales, Donna transitioned into the hospitality industry, opening her eight-bedroom sanctuary in 2025. The property offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Donna’s bed and breakfast is designed to provide comfort and relaxation, with amenities like a pool and tranquil surroundings. By offering visitors a more intimate, home-like stay, Donna helps travelers experience the authentic side of Saint Lucia, far from the typical resort experience.

Impact of Female Entrepreneurs on Saint Lucia’s Tourism Industry

These women are not just business owners; they are cultural ambassadors and community builders who play a vital role in the growth of Saint Lucia’s tourism industry. By creating businesses that focus on cultural immersion, sustainability, and local engagement, they are offering travellers more than just a vacation—they are providing authentic experiences that reflect the true spirit of the island.

Their contributions to the island’s tourism sector also provide economic opportunities for local communities, allowing Saint Lucians to benefit directly from the growing tourism industry. These female entrepreneurs are helping to diversify the island’s tourism offerings, which increasingly appeal to eco-conscious and culture-seeking travellers.

Encouraging Visitors to Explore Local Communities

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority’s recognition of these female entrepreneurs encourages tourists to explore the island’s lesser-known destinations, contributing to the growth of sustainable and community-based tourism. By stepping off the beaten path and visiting these women-led businesses, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Saint Lucia’s culture and natural beauty while supporting local entrepreneurs.

Empowering Women in Tourism

Saint Lucia’s tribute to female tourism entrepreneurs on International Women’s Day emphasizes the importance of the role that women play in building the future of the tourism industry. The female entrepreneurs not only offer tourists an exceptional experience, but they also uplift the community by giving them employment and promoting sustainable and cultural preservation. As Saint Lucia continues to rise as one of the premier travel destinations, the influence of the female entrepreneurs will be magnified, giving tourists the opportunity to make a connection with the island.

Original article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/