ORANJESTAD, June 16, 2023 – The Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association has introduced an award program to recognize responsible companies that prioritize the improvement of our community.
An independent jury consisting of 5 professionals reviewed 37 impressive company applications dedicated to creating positive impact in the community, not just their financial goals.
The jury established official criteria to select a winner in 4 pillars of sustainability, thereby recognizing their exceptional efforts for the well-being of our island:
- Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort won the AHATA Impact Award for “Environmental Protection.”
- Divi & Tamarijn Beach Resort won the AHATA Impact Award for “Charitable Investment.”
- Bodegas Papiamento won the AHATA Impact Award as the “Champion for Culture.”
- La Cabana Beach Resort won the AHATA Impact Award for “Employee Well-being.”
During a General Assembly of members, AHATA’s President and CEO, Tisa LaSorte, presented an artwork by artist Gilbert Senchi to the 4 winners in the presence of tourism industry executives and the Minister of Tourism and Public Health, Mr. Dangui Oduber.
AHATA is proud of the immense dedication of the winners and thanks all companies that include sustainability goals in their annual plans and take action to contribute to positive change in our community. With the successful AHATA Impact Award program, the tourism association has achieved a primary goal of supporting businesses with sustainable management and hopes to inspire more participation and dedication from the business world in impactful practices.
The jury, who dedicated their time and expertise to the award program, consisted of: Daniel Tecklenborg – Director of CEDE, Rosabelle Illes – PhD in Psychology and Faculty Member at the University of Aruba, Jan Noordzij – Director of Advance Human Resource Services, Francielle Laclé – Sustainable Development Advisor, and Ray-Anne Hernandez – Director of UNOCA.
AHATA expresses gratitude to the sponsors of the ceremonial event: Balashi Brewery, Elite Productions, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, and BEE4 Consultancy and Events.
For more information about the sustainable efforts of each of the 37 nominations for the AHATA Impact Award 2023, visit www.ahata.com.
