HER Story: Joan Brathwaite, Owner of Viola’s Place

Posted Mar 28, 2025

In the spirit of recognizing International Women’s Day throughout the month of March, we are eager to continue our Honouring, Empowering, Revolutionizing.. HER campaign. Recognizing one of the outstanding women who contribute our local tourism industry, we are grateful to share our chat with Joan Brathwaite, the Owner of Viola’s Place. Featuring the services of a small hotel, Viola’s Place offers accommodation, meals by request, laundry services and an information desk providing guidance on enjoying island activities in Tobago. Joan proudly manages the operations of the business.

1. What motivated you to pursue a career in tourism, and how have you navigated the challenges or opportunities unique to women in the industry?

“To support my husband’s desire to have a guest house in Tobago. To do so I pursued the hotel management course offered by UWI extra mural department. Since then, I have participated in all training programs offered by the division of tourism before the THTI was in operation. I also actively participate in the THTA, and I similarly encourage staff to participate in all training programs offered by the Division of Tourism and the THTI.”
 

2. Can you share a story where you felt empowered as a woman in tourism and how that experience shaped your career or perspective?

“My first experience in marketing at I TV Journal was beyond my imagination and expectation. I feel that I have toured the world, going to different continents by trolley. This reinforced my desire to continue to make full use of all opportunities. It made me aware that I should not allow anyone to make me feel that I am too ambitious. One should make full use of every moment to develop oneself and one’s establishment.”

3. How do you believe women in the tourism industry are helping to reshape the way we view travel, cultural exchange, and tourism development?

“Women are active in the majority of the hotel industry and therefore, women are the ones who promote the island and destination Tobago, as well as the tourism industry. Women need to seek and seize every opportunity to develop themselves.”

4. In your opinion, what steps can be taken to create more inclusive spaces and opportunities for women in leadership roles within tourism and hospitality?

“More education and collaboration with others in the industry, along with keeping abreast of all developments can help to achieve these goals.”

 

 

5. In your opinion, what are some of the untapped opportunities for women in tourism, and how can we encourage more women to explore these avenues?

“Women should get involved in all activities, advertise themselves on social media and create a strong database. They should also participate in programs and access grants offered by the tourism sector.”

6. What advice would you give to young women and girls aspiring to enter the tourism industry, and how can they use their unique perspectives to drive positive change?

“I would say: Continuously educate yourself on ongoing and upcoming developments. Hotel school, online courses and participation with organisations can prove very fruitful.”
 

 

Joan, thank you for taking the time to share your story with us. We appreciate your advice on getting involved with the offerings available in Tobago. Your engagement is simply inspiring.