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Basseterre, St. Kitts – St. Kitts and Nevis boasts a remarkable roster of global icons whose talents and achievements have brought pride to the twin-island federation. Yet, questions are mounting about why national heroes like Joshua Williams (NFL cornerback), Kim Collins (Olympic sprinter), Marcus Rashford (English football star of Kittitian descent), Atiba Harris (football legend), and Cole Palmer (rising English football star) have not been appointed as official sports and tourism ambassadors.

The absence of these internationally acclaimed individuals in official ambassadorial roles has sparked criticism of the government and the St. Kitts Tourism Authority for failing to capitalize on their global popularity to boost the country’s profile.

Untapped Potential on a Global Stage

With their collective notoriety and influence across sports and entertainment, these icons represent an invaluable resource for elevating the international image of St. Kitts and Nevis. From hosting celebrity tournaments at the Four Seasons or the Frigate Bay Golf Course to organizing star-studded soccer matches featuring figures like Kayamba Gumbs (football legend) and Desron Dorsett (NBA executive and VP of the Philadelphia 76ers), the potential for leveraging their star power to attract visitors is immense.

“It’s baffling that these celebrated athletes and figures, who could serve as compelling advocates for our nation, remain overlooked,” said a tourism industry stakeholder. “Their involvement could draw unprecedented attention to our destination while inspiring the youth.”

Contrasting Choices: INFAMUS vs. Global Icons

Adding fuel to the debate is the appointment of cultural ambassador Infamus, whose contributions to the arts have been notable but pale in global reach compared to these sports icons. Critics argue that while Infamus’ ambassadorial role is justified, the exclusion of these athletes signals a lack of strategic vision.

“Why aren’t these stars being embraced as official ambassadors for St. Kitts and Nevis?” asked one concerned citizen. “When Marcus Rashford campaigns for social justice or Joshua Williams proudly wears his Kittitian heritage, it makes headlines. Why isn’t our government seizing these moments to amplify their connection to St. Kitts and Nevis?”

A Missed Opportunity for Tourism

Sports and tourism go hand in hand, with athletes often acting as unofficial spokespeople for their homelands. Countries like Jamaica and Trinidad have long embraced their global stars to boost tourism. Hosting marquee events featuring these icons could attract both fans and media, putting St. Kitts and Nevis in the global spotlight.

“Imagine a celebrity golf tournament or charity soccer match featuring Joshua Williams, Marcus Rashford, Cole Palmer, and others. It could be transformative for tourism and sports development,” suggested a local business leader.

Calls for Action

There is growing consensus that the government and tourism officials must rethink their approach and engage these icons formally. Doing so could not only benefit the country economically but also foster national pride and unity.

“St. Kitts and Nevis must rise to the occasion and embrace these stars while they are at their peak,” a tourism advocate said. “We are dropping the ball, but it’s not too late to turn things around.”

As the debate continues, many hope that the nation’s leadership will recognize the untapped potential of these global icons and take steps to appoint them as official ambassadors for St. Kitts and Nevis.