THREE OUTSTANDING students have emerged as the top finalists from the first round of the 2024 Junior Minister of Tourism Competition, held at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in St Ann, on Tuesday, June 11.
After a highly competitive public-speaking event featuring 12 participants from secondary schools across Jamaica, Taj Melbourne of Manning’s School in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, claimed the top spot, followed by Hassan Smith, also from Manning’s School. Caleader Lewison, from Hampton School in St Elizabeth, secured the third position.
The trio will now vie for the coveted title of Jamaica’s Junior Minister of Tourism for 2024 in the upcoming final. Melbourne said that, despite being nervous initially, he drew confidence from those around him to deliver an impressive presentation on the Blue Economy.
“The blue economy is when a country uses marine resources. So, for example, Jamaica using the Caribbean Sea in their tourism sector, manufacturing and agriculture. It’s basically using what you have around you to make your economy grow,” the Grade 10 student explained.
As for Smith, his presentation was focused on cross-cultural collaboration and how to make Jamaica’s tourism appealing, while being inclusive and diverse. The ninth-grader said he felt ecstatic with his presentation and vowed to work even harder for the finals.
