Hodge-Smith cops regional award for contribution to culture

Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Luce Hodge-Smith, has been named one of the Caribbean’s standout leaders for 2025, earning a prestigious regional honour from the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) over the weekend in Miami.

Hodge-Smith, who has spent nearly four decades shaping cultural development and tourism in the Virgin Islands, was celebrated for her long record of public service and her ongoing work to elevate Virgin Islands heritage on the regional stage.

She began her career at the BVI Tourist Board, later became the territory’s first Director of Culture, and now serves as Fourth District Representative and Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism. Her leadership has focused on cultural preservation, strengthening partnerships, and integrating arts and heritage more deeply into national development.

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised in this way by CMEx,” she said. “My life’s work, both personally and throughout my public career, has been dedicated to service. As a proud Virgin Islander, I remain committed to contributing to the continued development of this territory, and I am gratified that my efforts are being acknowledged beyond our shores.”

Hodge-Smith was one of 15 honourees from across the region.
Others included St. Maarten’s Director of Tourism May-Ling Chun; Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority; Janelle Hopkin, President and Managing Director of Grenada’s Spice Island Beach Resort; and Marcus Simmonds, CEO of Tortuga International Holdings in the Cayman Islands.

Each was recognised for contributions spanning tourism, culture, hospitality, community upliftment and regional innovation.

CMEx President Bevan Springer — an award-winning journalist and seasoned PR and marketing professional — said this year’s group reflects the depth of Caribbean leadership and creativity.

He described the ceremony as “more than a gathering,” calling it a reminder of what can be achieved when the region invests in vision and collaboration.