Heyliger-Marten Invites Young Women to Apply for FCCA Mentorship Initiative

GREAT BAY--Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten has announced that the Ministry of TEATT has once again been invited by the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association to nominate up to three young women from St. Maarten for its Young Women’s Mentorship Initiative.

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Young Women's Mentorship Initiative is a 10-month program designed to empower young Caribbean women to pursue careers in cruise tourism. It connects aspiring professionals with accomplished female executives to cultivate the next generation of regional tourism leaders.

“While we continue strengthening today’s tourism industry, we must also invest in tomorrow’s tourism leaders,” Heyliger-Marten said.

The Minister described the initiative as an opportunity capable of shaping careers and preparing young women for future leadership roles within tourism and related industries.

“This program provides something far more valuable than a certificate. It provides opportunity,” she said.

Applicants must be women between the ages of 18 and 24, reside in St. Maarten, possess valid travel documentation and meet the eligibility requirements established by the FCCA.

Applications close on August 17, 2026. Because TEATT must complete its internal selection and nomination process before the FCCA deadline, interested applicants are encouraged to carefully review the requirements published on the Government of St. Maarten website and submit their applications promptly.

Heyliger-Marten urged eligible young women not to allow fear or self-doubt to prevent them from pursuing the opportunity.

“To every young woman listening today: Do not allow fear or self-doubt to convince you that opportunities like this are meant for someone else. They are meant for you. Believe in your potential. Invest in yourself. Step forward. Because one application can open a door that changes the direction of your entire life,” she said.

The Minister said initiatives of this nature support government’s broader goal of preparing St. Maarten’s young people to participate meaningfully in the future development and leadership of the country’s tourism industry.

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