Press Releases

In a groundbreaking effort to support local communities, Blue Diamond Resorts’ properties in Antigua—Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, and Royalton CHIC Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only—have partnered with the Gilbert Agricultural Rural Development Center (GARD) to empower and rehabilitate inmates from His Majesty’s Prison. This collaboration highlights the hotel management company’s commitment to fostering lasting, positive change in the destinations they serve.

The program is designed to equip inmates specializing in culinary arts with essential skills that will aid in their successful reintegration into society. It began with a focus on job readiness, where Matara Murphy, Regional Training and Development Manager West Indies for Blue Diamond Resorts, led comprehensive sessions on crafting effective resumes, mastering interview techniques, and developing personal branding through an engaging workshop titled "The Brand Called YOU."

Candice Petgrave and Thalia Thomas, Training and Development Managers at Royalton Antigua and Royalton CHIC Antigua, led sessions on customer service, strategic marketing, and entrepreneurial skills. Meanwhile, the culinary training was spearheaded by Gianluca Di Costanzo, Regional Executive Chef West Indies for Blue Diamond Resorts, alongside Devon Hood, Steward Manager at Royalton Antigua. Together, they provided hands-on instruction in food preparation, sanitation, and best practices to ensure food safety.

“At Blue Diamond Resorts, we take great pride in our community outreach efforts and are continuously looking for ways to expand our support for local initiatives,” said Gaurav Sindhi, Vice President of Operations – West Indies for Blue Diamond Resorts. “This partnership with the GARD Center reflects our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around us, and we’re proud to contribute to the successful reintegration of these individuals into society.”

The program has already received enthusiastic feedback from the participants, marking the beginning of a meaningful partnership. Through these efforts, Royalton Antigua and Royalton CHIC Antigua continue to support the communities in the destination, strengthening their role as active contributors to the local society.