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Distinguished leaders in tourism, media and community development to be celebrated Dec. 6 in Coral Gables
MIAMI (Aug. 9, 2026) — The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) nonprofit organization has announced the first group of honorees for its 2026 Leadership Awards, recognizing seven individuals whose leadership and service have made meaningful contributions to tourism, media, sustainability and community development across the Caribbean and the marketplace.
The honorees will be celebrated at the 2026 CMEx Leadership Awards and Fundraiser on Sunday, Dec. 6 at Loews Coral Gables Hotel in the Miami area.
The first group of 2026 honorees includes:
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Anne Kalosh, Freelance Journalist; Editor, Seatrade Cruise News; and Senior Associate Editor, Seatrade Cruise Review
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Carmen Portela, Justice and Equity Coordinator, GreenLatinos, Puerto Rico
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Gercine Carter, Journalist, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited, Barbados
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Giora Israel, President, Giora Israel LLC, and Strategic Adviser in Global Cruise Tourism, Port Development and the Blue Economy
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Jake Kheel, Vice President of Sustainability, Grupo Puntacana, Dominican Republic
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Jennifer Griffith, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Jamaica
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Josef Forstmayr, Managing Director, Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica
“This year’s honorees represent the leadership, vision and spirit of service that continue to move the Caribbean forward,” said CMEx President Bevan Springer. “Their impact is reflected in stronger communities, expanded opportunities and meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future for the region.”
A second group of honorees to be celebrated in Miami will be announced later this month.
The annual awards bring together tourism executives, government officials, media professionals, community leaders and supporters of sustainable Caribbean development. Proceeds help advance CMEx programs that connect tourism and media professionals while supporting educational and community initiatives.
The awards luncheon will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
For additional details about the honorees, sponsorship opportunities and tickets, visit cmexmedia.org.
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