Visit Rupununi Hall of Fame
Is an annual event introduced in 2019 it recognizes outstanding individuals who have made a significant and sustained contribution to the development of tourism in the Rupununi and a positive impact on communities and the environment over the past 25 years.
2019 Inductees
- Ms Diane McTurk- Karanambu Lodge
- Mr Fred Allicock – Surama Village and Iwokrama Forest
- Mr Ivan Johnson – Takutu Hotel
2020 Inductees
- Mr Ian Craddock – Bushmasters
- Me Duane DeFreitas – Dadanawah Ranch and Rupununi Trails
- Mr Daniel Gadgie- The Rupununi Chamber of Commerce & Rupununi Eco Hotel
The Visit Rupununi Annual Tourism Awards presented in 2020 Categories:
- Tourism Personality of the Year – An individual who has been in the preceding year been an outstanding ambassador for Rupununi Tourism & whose activities promote the development of tourism in the region.
- The Best New Tourism Product (accommodation based) A Tourism product that offers accommodation, meals and activities and has been operational under three years with demonstrated care for the environment. This award also considers tourism products that are in emergent stages and those with significant input from the local community.
- The Best New Tourism Product (Activity only) – A Tourism product offering meals and/or activities and has been operational under three years with demonstrated care for the environment. This award also considers tourism products that are in emergent stages and those with significant input from the local community.
- Best Cook in the Rupununi – An Individual who operates at an established tourism site (Guest House, Restaurant, Hotel, Lodge, Resort…) who makes your Food & Beverage experience rewarding.
- Best Conservation Event – An event that occurs over a fixed period, engages local communities, fosters sustainable efforts and contributes to the enhancement of the regional tourism product.
2020 Winners
- Tourism Personality of the year 2019-2020 -Joyanne Ramnaught
BEST NEW PRODUCT
- “A Tourism product that offers accommodation, meals or activities” -Witchabi Ranch
- “A Tourism product that offers meals and/or activities ONLY” Ariwa Beach.
- Best cook- Michelle Skeet- Rupununi Eco Hotel
- Best Conservation Event – Turtle Festival- Yupukari Village
