ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General and CEO of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 Caribbean Food Forum on Thursday, May 21, in Antigua and Barbuda.
The forum, hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and presented by Grace Foods, will be held both virtually and in person at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Center. The event is one of the featured highlights of Antigua and Barbuda’s Annual Culinary Month.
Held under the theme, “The Future Is Local: Caribbean Food at the Crossroads of Global Impact,” the one-day conference will convene leaders from the tourism, agriculture, culinary, hospitality and investment sectors to discuss the evolving role of Caribbean food systems in regional economic development.
Regis-Prosper’s keynote presentation will focus on regenerative tourism, sustainable food systems and the Caribbean’s growing influence within the global food economy. Narendra Ramgulam, deputy director of sustainable tourism at the CTO, will also address attendees, highlighting the importance of agritourism and destination branding as drivers of Caribbean economic growth.
Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, said the forum reflects a strategic investment in the region’s tourism future.
“The Caribbean Food Forum is a timely and strategic initiative that aligns with our vision for sustainable tourism development,” James said. “Elevating our food systems and connecting them to global opportunity strengthens the value of our destination while creating immersive cultural visitor experiences, and meaningful pathways for local and regional producers and entrepreneurs.”
Registration for the event remains open through Tuesday, May 19. Participants may register online via the official registration page or contact the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority at 1-268-562-7600.
The program will feature three strategic panel discussions examining climate resilience, agritourism, diaspora engagement and food entrepreneurship. Attendees will also participate in a lunch and marketplace experience showcasing local producers, culinary artisans and Caribbean brands, alongside sessions exploring technology, sustainability and global market access.
Donyelle Bird-Browne, organizer of the forum and USA senior business development manager for strategic partnerships, said the event is designed to create measurable outcomes for the region.
“CTO’s participation and endorsement underscores the critical role of food systems in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism and economic resilience,” Bird-Browne said.
“This platform is designed to move beyond just conversation, and bring together policy, innovation, culture, and investment to open the doors to tangible opportunities for the region.”
Organizers said the forum is expected to produce a white paper outlining key recommendations and actionable roadmaps for future regional collaboration.
More information about Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month is available at Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month .
About Caribbean Food Forum
The Caribbean Food Forum is a premier regional platform focused on the intersection of food, tourism, culture and economic development. Hosted in Antigua and Barbuda, the forum brings together industry leaders, policymakers, chefs, producers and innovators to explore solutions and opportunities shaping the future of Caribbean food systems.
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