The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has announced the launch of a new commemorative award program established in memory of Edith Baxter, a long-time Canadian publishing professional who passed away in late 2020.
Founded in partnership with the Baxter family, the Edith Baxter Memorial Award will recognize an outstanding community leader who uses their influence to elevate Destination Jamaica and contributes toward the positive advancement of Jamaica’s tourism industry and/or Jamaican culture within Canada.
The grand prize winner of the 2021 Edith Baxter Memorial Award will receive a five-night luxury trip to Jamaica for two people courtesy of Sandals Resorts and Air Canada Vacations.
As co-founder and editor-in-chief of Baxter Media, Edith Baxter was a powerful voice within the Canadian publishing industry for more than five decades and an advocate for Jamaica. She served at the helm of Canadian Travel Press and Travel Courier for more than 50 years and was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Government of Jamaica in 2009 in recognition of the important work she had done on behalf of Jamaica’s tourist industry.
“While she may have travelled to many places around the world throughout her impressive career, Edith Baxter held a special place in her heart for the island of Jamaica,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica.
“We hope to honour her legacy in the years to come by continuing to celebrate remarkable Canadians who use their voices to shine a spotlight on the destination.”
“Edith Baxter was a true pioneer in the travel industry; she played an integral role in championing Jamaica’s tourism product within the Canadian market and had a truly special connection with the island,” said John Lynch, Chairman, Jamaica Tourist Board.
“The Jamaica Tourist Board has established this memorial award in her name in order to recognize exceptional individuals who advocate for Jamaica in their own communities.”
The Edith Baxter Memorial Award will be presented on a biennial basis in 2021, 2023 and 2025. The official entry period for the inaugural award launches on 21APR, 2021. Individuals working in the fields of tourism and hospitality, music, arts and culture, community activism, education, healthcare, athletics and public service are invited to nominate themselves or friends and colleagues for the competition. Nominations will be open until the entry deadline on 25JUN, 2021.
In SEP, the Jamaica Tourist Board will host an official presentation ceremony to honour each of the five finalists and reveal the final grand-prize winner.
