Leisure for Pleasure’s head honcho – expect challenges but never give up!
JUDITH JAMES Watts, managing director of Leisure for Pleasure Holidays and Tours Ltd, one of Jamaica’s leading tour companies, advises business persons to expect challenges but to never give up.
She was speaking recently at one of the events held to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her company.
“Examine yourself to see if you have a passion and talent for the business you are in. Learn to believe in God, in yourself, your gifts, talents, and abilities. Push through, hold on, work hard, and pray, and surround yourself with positive persons who believe in you,” James-Watts further advised.
Scores of hotel and tourist industry players came out to celebrate with their associate at both the church service held at Fellowship Tabernacle in the morning and the awards luncheon held at the Knutsford Court Hotel in the same afternoon, where industry partners, staff, and clients were recognised.
There was an atmosphere of gratitude as everyone gathered to congratulate Leisure for Pleasure Holidays and Tours for reaching the historic milestone.
Director of Product Quality and Training at TPDco Deanne Keating-Campbell, who spoke on behalf of the industry, lauded the organisation for maintaining high standards over the years.
“We have had the privilege and pleasure of working with you from the start. I can stand here confidently to say that as an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, we thank Leisure for Pleasure Holidays & Tours Limited for holding exemplary principles.”
The reason why Brand Jamaica succeeds is because we have companies like yours,” Keating Campbell added.
Her endorsement of the 20-year-old company was mirrored by president of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Omar Robinson, who also spoke at the luncheon.
“For two decades, Leisure for Pleasure Holidays & Tours Limited has invested their time and resources in delivering once-in-alifetime experiences. The company has been recognised twice before for its outstanding service by the industry through the Ministry of Tourism and the Tourism Service of Excellence Award, so congratulations.”
Guest speaker Donna Duncan Scott, in her presentation, likened the managing director to herself, commending her for the tenacity with which she has held on to her dream and brought it to fruition for 20 years.
The company was conceived in 1999 out of the managing director’s affinity for travel. Since then, it has gone through multiple trials and tribulations, triumphs, and successes, cutting and carving its way into what is now known as its niche, providing both locals and foreigners with tours and cruises that suit their pockets.