The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association’s (GHTA), Board of Directors, Management and employees extend deepest condolences to Lady Betty, the family and staff of the late Sir Royston Hopkin, KCMG.
Sir Royston held the distinction of being the first and youngest Grenadian, at age 24, to be elected President of the Grenada Hotel Association, a position he held 14 times. Before his passing, he also served as the Honorary Director and member. “To say that we’ve suffered a huge loss, is putting it mildly. He not only left a huge hole in our hearts but within the GHTA and the wider Caribbean tourism industry. He left an indelible mark and legacy for us to follow; to holistically strive for excellence for a sustainable tomorrow,” says CEO, Arlene Friday.
Sir Royston’s illustrious career in the tourism industry spanned more than 50 years. He served in various capacities, which all served to highlight his expertise and passion for tourism. Highlights of his career include:
- Owner of the AAA Five Diamond, world renown, Spice Island Beach Resort
- Youngest person ever appointed to the Grenada Tourist Board, at age 20, where he served 18 years
- Since 1970, served on the Board of the Caribbean Hotel Association, where he held numerous positions including Director, Vice President, President and Chairman
- The recipient of the Caribbean Hotel Association’s “Hotelier of the Year” Award in 1991
- The recipient of Grenada’s Silver Anniversary Independence Award for 25 years of dedicated service
- The recipient of the Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for “Outstanding Leadership in Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Tourism”
- The recipient of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Lifetime Achievement Award. The only Grenadian and hotelier to receive such an award.
- In 2013, Sir Royston was appointed Honorary Ambassador of Tourism by the Government of Grenada
- Between 1996 and 1997, he worked in collaboration with the Grenada Union of Teachers and the Ministry of Education to enlighten teachers about the tourism industry.
- In 1994, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II bestowed him the “Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George” (CMG). In 1994, his rank was elevated to Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George (KCMG)
Sir Royston made an invaluable contribution to the development of Grenada’s tourism industry with accolades that are too numerous to mention. One notable mention, however, is Sir Royston’s continued support to needy students. In 1992, he established an education Scholarship Fund to assist at least 15 students each year at Grand Anse R.C School. To date, there have been over 200 recipients.
Sir Royston was a tourism icon and ambassador that exemplified excellence in every sense and leaves behind a larger than life career and legacy.
