The Department of Labour and Workforce Development, in collaboration with the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board, earlier this month initiated a training program aimed at educating young Virgin Islanders on the critical roles of tourism and customer service.

Roxane DeWindt-Toussaint, the Workforce Development Manager, emphasised the department’s commitment to nurturing local talent. “One of our main focuses is developing individuals in the territory to meet the demands of today’s job market. We plan to host a series of training workshops throughout the year and encourage Virgin Islanders and Belongers seeking employment or a career change to register with the Department and take full advantage of these training opportunities,” she stated.

During the workshop, participants gained invaluable insights into the significance of customer service and hospitality in the highly competitive tourism industry. They were trained in best practices for greeting and engaging with both visitors and residents, recognising that exemplary customer service can significantly enhance the overall experience, leading to positive word-of-mouth, favorable social media reviews, and repeat visitors.

Acting Labour Commissioner Mervin Hastings echoed these sentiments, noting, “Tourism and customer service are two interconnected pillars that uphold the global hospitality industry. The British Virgin Islands welcomed over 900,000 visitors in 2023, a record number in recent years. It’s crucial that we equip our people with the necessary tools.”

In a move to modernise its operations, the Department of Labour and Workforce Development will introduce a new Labour Management System in June. This system aims to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and provide online job search, registration, application, and payment capabilities.

Recognising the importance of human capital as a driver of economic progress, the Department is dedicated to implementing robust strategies and initiatives designed to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy.