Record attendance at Tourism Job Fair

Caymanian jobseekers intending to pursue careers in the tourism sector attended a two-day job fair last week in the hope of securing employment from the many businesses in attendance.

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment and Immigration (MCEI), in partnership with the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) and Workforce Opportunities & Residency Cayman (WORC), hosted a successful Tourism and Hospitality Open House event, from 8-9 September, at the Grand Cayman Marriott Resort.

Over 300 Caymanian job seekers explored the wide range of career paths available in Cayman’s thriving tourism and hospitality industry. The week before the event, approximately 87 Caymanian job seekers, clients of WORC identified as ready for immediate employment, benefited from an added service by receiving pre-interview screenings with One GT and Grand Hyatt for upcoming positions that will be available when they open.

Andre Ebanks, Cayman Islands Premier, addressed the jobseekers on the second day. He was pleased to see such a large contingent attending, including six Brackers. Premier Ebanks said: “The government is actively supporting Caymanians to prepare themselves for a better future. I’m also here to introduce you to new pathways and careers so that you do not start at the entry level, you’ll see the direct pathway so that you can get to the big jobs and the big offices.”

He promised that within his four-year term in government as leader he and his cabinet “are only on temporary contracts but we are all committed to get as many jobseekers as possible into full-time employment no matter what happens to us. We’ll have to figure out what happens to us after 2028-29.” 

Gary Rutty, Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, said: “Tourism is not a sector like manufacturing, run by machines and automotive practices, it is about people. Our people and our visitors to our shores. It is the heartbeat of our economy and it gives us a chance to showcase our Caymanian heritage, our hospitality and our knowledge of this beautiful country to the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit our shores every year.  And that is why it is so important that our own people are at every touch point and industry, in roles that provide real opportunities for growth and upward mobility which allow them to get ahead, support their families and enjoy a better future.”

Each day began with an engaging presentation by CITA showcasing Career Pathways and salary expectations. The presentation also included Caymanians currently in the industry sharing their success stories. The afternoon allowed networking sessions and direct interactions with employers eager to hire local talent.

Thirty-two businesses participated, including hotels, water sports operators, restaurants, condominiums, and event planning companies. All were actively recruiting for open positions.

Michael Myles, Minister for Caymanian Employment and Immigration, said: “This event demonstrates our shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Caymanians within one of our most vital industries. Our goal is long-term success and growth for our people, and this event is one step forward in making that a reality.”

WORC Director Jeremy Scott said: “The turnout is proof that there is a strong interest and passion among Caymanians to be part of this industry. WORC is proud to host initiatives where we can connect Caymanian job seekers directly with employers who are actively hiring.”