Travel often teaches lessons far beyond what any guidebook, article, or social media post could describe.
I have the privilege of experiencing several countries. One city whose very spirit speaks to the possibility of transformation, resilience, and hope is Medellin, Colombia.
From the steep alleyways of Communa 13, alive with vibrant murals pulsing with creativity telling stories of survival to the bustling streets of El Poblado, echoing growth, to the breathtaking heights of El Peñol, where the land stretches endlessly into the promise of a thriving future. Medellín is proof that no history is too heavy to rise beyond.
A city once tainted by turmoil, hardship, and corruption now bursts with color, innovation, and a undeniable spirit of progress. Today, it welcomes visitors from all around the world to witness its rebirth.
As I walked through Medellín’s streets, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own homeland, Trinidad and Tobago, especially now, at a time when our nation stands at a crossroads, preparing to cast votes and choose its future leadership.
I share these reflections from a place of hope, as someone who once chose to return to Trinidad and Tobago to create a hospitality experience that connects visitors with the positive aspects of our country and culture.
I’ve always had hope that, like Medellín, we too can rise.
That Trinidadians too can craft a new story for ourselves, if they choose to begin believing in the limitless possibilities. That we can choose growth, resilience, and unity, regardless of our past challenges. Because the truth is, Trinidad and Tobago has so much to offer the world.
Our culture, and natural landscapes, deserve to be seen, experienced, and celebrated, but without focus, without safety, without vision, the world cannot be invited in.
Tourism is a bridge. A bridge to opportunity, to economic growth, to renewed pride in who we are. Medellín and much of the world have shown me what is possible when a place chooses not to be defined by its differences, but by its potential. It is time that we do not stick to the stories of yesterday, and begin writing a new one.
Transformation does not mean forgetting where we have come from. It means honoring it, and deciding that our future can be even brighter.
I hope we all remember that power has always been with the people. In creativity, in strength, in the ability to unite for generations to come. My hope is that this nation, every community, and every individual dares to believe in a new light, and have the courage to rise to the beauty of becoming more.
