We need to find creative ways to develop cultural tourism

In this new series the Bermuda Tourism Authority features the people behind the drive to revitalize tourism in Bermuda.
This week Tashae Thompson, BTA culture and leisure events manager, is answering the team profile questions.

What are the primary goals and  objectives of your position?

My position involves identifying, developing and managing opportunities for new or enhanced tourism products/experiences so that visitors have a positive and memorable experience while on-island. 

As we look to increase visitation to the island, delivering unique products and experiences for our visitors year-round is essential.

How do you go about accomplishing those goals and objectives?

Working extremely closely with our industry partners, stakeholders and the BTA team. There are a lot of ideas and passionate people who want to see our tourism industry succeed. 

Communicating the importance of delivering experiences that our visitors want, and collaborating with stakeholders who own the assets that make Bermuda so unique, is the key to ensuring Bermuda’s tourism-focused offerings are unique and memorable.  

How does what you do tie into the National Tourism Plan?

The National plan identified cultural tourism as a core product we must develop to reduce seasonality. 

I work with stakeholders to identify creative ways to develop cultural products, offerings and experiences to achieve this objective.

Describe a typical day.

One thing I like about working in this industry is that no two days are alike. One day may involve a series of meetings with stakeholders. Another may involve product site visits or strategic planning sessions for upcoming new experiences. 

One constant is the great discussions with my BTA colleagues on ways to improve on things we are doing — which makes each day worthwhile! 

What prepared you for the role you have?

Definitely my previous experience planning and managing events, developing marketing promotions and communication strategies, and working on various tourism programmes and initiatives.  

Through my previous role with the former Bermuda Department of Tourism, I’ve developed good working relationships with stakeholders, which has been extremely helpful in communicating the new vision and objectives for our on-island product.  

Having a strong sports foundation has also helped. As a former national basketball player and current basketball coach, working in team settings taught me how to motivate and lead teams to work together and achieve common goals.

How is your success measured? 

My success is ultimately measured by increased visitation to the island and an increase in visitors’ satisfaction. 

Who is integral to your success at work?

The people of Bermuda! Everyone who lives on our island is an ambassador. Their interaction with our visitors ultimately influences their overall experience. 

We can invest in new products and come up with great experiences but the delivery, execution and interactions our visitors have with people on-island will determine if their experience is positive. The people of Bermuda are integral to “our” collective success.

Why did you join the BTA team?

I joined the BTA to contribute to the revitalization of our tourism industry. I believe there is no other place in the world like Bermuda.

People who travel to our island are mesmerized by its beauty, our people and culture. Having visited many places around the globe, I’m still in love with my country and truly believe that with our great assets we can be a premier travel destination. 

Also, I have the opportunity to work with this dynamic team to showcase our on-island offerings, and to strategically position Bermuda to today’s travellers.