We are still eager to share inspiring stories of some of Tobago’s dedicated women who are dismantling barriers within the local tourism sector. The next entry in our Honouring, Empowering, Revolutionizing… HER campaign congratulates the service and expertise of Shurland James, the proud owner of Shurland’s Nature Park and Tea Shop.
Shurland’s Nature Park and Tea Shop offers a multiplicity of services: hummingbird feeding experiences with opportunities to capture the moment, well-prepared meals and desserts like traditional, local dishes and unique ice-cream flavours, tour packages around the beautifully unspoilt island of Tobago, and river trail hikes that lead to clean, clear waters.
A true gem of Tobago, Shurland’s Nature Park and Tea Shop has been recognized by the likes of lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler, and UK-based newspaper The Sun. Let’s explore more of HER story:
What motivated you to pursue a career in tourism, and how have you navigated the challenges or opportunities unique to women in the industry?
“I live at Bloody Bay which is nestled in the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. It’s an area where tourists frequent either for sightseeing, birdwatching or tours. I had to make a living to sustain my family, so it was only natural that I take the route of a career in tourism. I started by selling snacks and juices to visitors, then I pursued a course in tour guiding which was mostly dominated by males at the time. However, my personality helped me fit in and there were no major challenges from there.”
Can you share a story where you felt empowered as a woman in tourism and how that experience shaped your career or perspective?
“It was when all my hard work over the years was seen and appreciated by a wider audience. I was visited by local influencer Foodie Tales with Zaak and Island Girl Tours and they really loved what my park had to offer. The videos they shared made way for an influx of visitors! I felt validated, and this motivated me to work harder and refine my offerings.”
How do you believe women in the tourism industry are helping to reshape the way we view travel, cultural exchange, and tourism development?
“Women play a pivotal role in tourism by offering authentic cultural and natural experiences. Their unique perspectives help in promoting sustainable tourism practices and enriching travelers’ understanding of local traditions and environments.”
In your opinion, what steps can be taken to create more inclusive spaces and opportunities for women in leadership roles within tourism and hospitality?
“I believe it starts with self. Sometimes, you have to make your own opportunities like I did. What comes after that is the availability of resources and education by those in authority to help nurture, sustain and highlight the achievements of those women.”
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?
“We all are good at something; take what you are good at and develop it into a product – whether it may be in eco-tourism, culinary tourism, and artisanal crafts. They can create niche markets that attract travelers seeking genuine and immersive experiences.”
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?
“Make sure that whatever area you go into, you do it from a place of love, as the people you come in contact with can feel when something is genuine, and they tend to gravitate to that.”
Shurland, thank you for taking the time to chat with us and for providing traditional, authentic service to both locals and guests at Shurland’s Nature Park and Tea Shop. Your innovation and care for nature is appreciated and recognized. May your shining light continue to be an example to others paving their paths in Tobago’s tourism industry.