THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS TOURIST BOARD & FILM COMMISSION’S LYNETTE HARRIGAN
AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS MBE BY HIS MAJESTY KING CHARLES III

Award Given for Her Contributions to Tourism in the British Virgin Islands

Lynette Harrigan, Niche Marketing and Tourism Liaison Manager at the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission received the award of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) from His Majesty King Charles III for her contributions to International Travel during the COVID-19 pandemic and to the community in the British Virgin Islands.  This special recognition was given in the announcement of His Majesty King Charles III’s New Year’s Honours List.

Lynette, who has served the BVITB for over 20 years is highly regarded in international tourism circles and has helped to build the reputation of the British Virgin Islands as a top destination for romance, sailing, dive adventure, luxury and meetings and incentives travel.  Her work has helped to diversify the tourism mix and create more business during the traditional tourism “off-season”.

In a recent press release by the Government of the Virgin Islands announcing the award, Lynette was said to have, “… provided exceptional service to hundreds of tourists and industry partners, even during the recent challenges. During Irma, she offered a lifeline to international partners providing crucial updates and in COVID, she assisted tourists and locals in navigating the changing and at times complex quarantine protocols and producers. She became the ‘go to’ person, working exceptionally long hours to offer around-the-clock assistance to resolve COVID-related travel issues.”

In the release, Lynette was also recognised for her outstanding work in the community over the years as an individual and as a leading Rotarian in the British Virgin Islands.

Commenting on the award, His Excellency Governor John Rankin, CMG, said, “Lynette is a great representative for the BVI. Over the last two decades, she has repeatedly gone above and beyond in her work for the BVI Tourist Board. She strove tirelessly throughout the pandemic to support travel, which was appreciated by both the industry and tourists.  This award rightfully recognises her outstanding achievements for tourism in the BVI, particularly through COVID, as well as her contribution to the wider community.”

Director of Tourism Mr. Clive McCoy said, “Lynette is a highly valued employee of the BVITB who always answers the call in times of crisis.  She provided exceptional service to both our visitors and residents travelling to and from the BVI during the COVID-19 pandemic.  She continues to play a pivotal role as the Board’s Tourism Liaison to the BVI Government.  Congratulations to Lynette, as she is truly deserving of this prestigious award.”

Ms. Harrigan responded, “I am grateful that His Majesty has bestowed the honour of the MBE on me, and I shall continue to serve my community with pride and humility.  Though each day presents new challenges, I am driven to succeed and am truly appreciative of this recognition.”

MBE is awarded to an individual “for an outstanding achievement or service to the community. This will have had a long-term, significant impact and stand out as an example to others”, according to the Government of the United Kingdom.

About the British Virgin Islands

Known as a treasured destination rich in undiscovered experiences, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an alluring archipelago comprising 60 islands and cays located in the northeastern region of the Caribbean Sea. With plentiful private villas and luxury boutique resorts, there is no shortage of accommodations from which to choose, whether for leisure or MICE (meetings, events, and incentives) travel. The BVI has long been hailed as the sailing capital of the world for its line-of-sight sailing, myriad boat charter options (bareboat, crewed, powered, traditional hoisted sail) , and an array of experiences catering specially to yachties. The BVI is continually recognized with accolades including “Top Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas” in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2020, placing #2 on The New York Times' coveted "52 places to Go in 2020' list and ranking "#1 Best Place to Visit in the Caribbean" by U.S. News & World Report in 2017, 2018 and 2019 and #2 for 2021-2022. For more information on how to experience BVILOVE, visit the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission website at www.bvitourism.com or contact 1-800-835-8530.