This highlight of our Honouring, Empowering, Revolutionizing… HER campaign acknowledges Carla-Ann Wiliams, the Owner and Executive Chef of Artfully Delicious, a catering company offering elegant, artistically designed arrays of dishes that please both the eyes and the palate. A limitless service that serves both corporate and private entities, Artfully Delicious’ “only limit is your imagination”!
Carla-Ann’s years of service in the food industry has set her on a path of gaining many culinary achievements and skills for preparing quality food, providing exceptional food service and honing her leadership skills. Her skills and experiences complement her early-developed passion for food in her grandmother’s kitchen, leading her to perfect her art.
Let’s lean into 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?
“The motivation to become a chef/caterer developed from my passion for food and events. Catering allows you to express your creativity through menu planning, food preparation and presentation. Catering also provides career flexibility and growth; I have autonomy and control over my work, while making people happy by offering well-crafted meals and quality service. Navigating this industry means consistently educating myself, collaborating and engaging in mentorship with other women in this space.”
Can you share a story where you felt empowered as a woman in tourism and how that experience shaped your career or perspective?
“Winning my second Iron Chef competition in 2013! This competition was hosted by the Division of Tourism and featured some of the best chefs on the island. WOW! This experience lit a fire in me, dismantling many fears about entering this male-dominated field as a female chef in the tourism industry, where men are the ones making most of the decisions.”
How do you believe women in the tourism industry are helping to reshape the way we view travel, cultural exchange, and tourism development?
“Women’s skills are more dominant in the tourism sector and make up the majority of the tourism work force. For example, most advertised opportunities request the skills of housekeepers or kitchen assistants, who are often women. These enterprises within the industry cannot function without these pertinent roles. We women possess a unique combination of skills and perspectives that are invaluable in the hospitality industry, which can particularly be applied in executive roles. Women can drive innovation, enhance guest experiences and lead very successful hospitality businesses.”
In your opinion, what steps can be taken to create more inclusive spaces and opportunities for women in leadership roles within tourism and hospitality?
“By investing in women’s entrepreneurship through mentorship programs, leadership workshops, and networking opportunities we can see a lot more women ascend to executive positions. With such investment, we could also witness more sustainable tourism, shaping a future where every trip becomes a memorable experience. We need more gender equality in these spaces.”
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?
“Think deeply and honestly about this one, simple question: How many female tour operators/ guides do we have on the island?”
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?
“Education is your superpower. Knowledge will empower you and open many doors. Secure a formal education, which will create a good foundation. However, remember that practical, hands-on experience is equally important. From being a porter to being a member in the board room, learn every area of the industry.”
Carla-Ann, thank you for your time and dedication to the food industry in Tobago, perfecting the art of elegantly catering meals that appease both the palate and the eyes. We appreciate you sharing your story of bravery and persistence with us, inspiring others to take advantage of each opportunity to learn about every aspect of the tourism industry.