The prestigious AHATA Excellence Awards event, organized annually by the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association (AHATA), culminated on Saturday evening. More than 250 guests attended an unforgettable night in the ballroom of The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, where 38 professionals were honored for their dedication to raising the standard of excellence across the island.
The AHATA Excellence Awards symbolize the industry’s gratitude for the exceptional service these professionals provide. It is a celebration of the individuals who contribute to Aruba’s continued success as a premier tourism destination. During the grand evening, honorees received a specially designed artistic trophy created by talented local artist Gilbert Senchi. The trophy, shaped like a seashell, represents the warmth and resilience of Aruban hospitality and was presented on stage by AHATA President and CEO, Ms. Tisa LaSorte.
In the coming weeks, AHATA will spotlight each honoree through its social media channels. To learn more about these exceptional individuals and be inspired by their motivation and passion, follow AHATA on Facebook at facebook.com/arubahotelandtourismassociation and on Instagram at @arubahata.
AHATA extends its deepest gratitude to all sponsors and partners who made this evening a great success. A special thank-you goes to the Main Sponsor, Elite Productions & Entertainment. AHATA also expresses appreciation to its valued partners — Tropical Bottling Aruba, De Palm Corporation, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, and Wings Global Media — for their contribution and continued support of this celebration of excellence.
AHATA is proud of the remarkable achievements of the honorees and expresses profound appreciation for their efforts, which continue to define what true excellence in hospitality means.
List of AHATA Excellence Awards 2025 Honorees:
Emercio Navarro Valbuena – Protection Officer – ARX Protective Services
Genesis Ramirez – Front Desk Agent – Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
Darelyn Koolman – Marketing Executive – Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Jonathan Martinez – Senior Operations Supervisor – De Palm Corporation
Brigitte Croes – Telephone Operator – JOIA Aruba by Iberostar
Emmely Julia – Food & Beverage Supervisor – Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort
Karlene Serrada – Portfolio Manager – Casiola Vacation Homes
Leoniria Hernandez Odor – Maintenance Assistant – Aramis Real Estate
Gregory Boekhoudt – Guest Service Expert – The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
Tashmira Kock – Armored Transportation Officer – Evers Security
Jonathan Bremo – Accounting Manager – La Cabana Beach Resort and Casino
Jurgen Werleman – Chef de Partie – Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
Nahym Monte – Tour Guide – Kini Kini Transfer & Tours
Asanya Foster – Sales & Marketing Manager – Radisson Blu Aruba
Henry Gomez – Restaurant Manager – Riu Palace Antillas
Anouchka Maduro – Administration – BlueAruba Vacation Rental
Darwin Torres Correa – Regional Executive Chef – Divi Golf Aruba
Jenny Chen – Rooms Director – Privada Stays
Eric Leonard – Storeroom Clerk – GCG Group
Priscilla Samson – Brand Ambassador – TRYP by Wyndham Aruba
Eleonore Rustveld – Ambassador III Marketing Executive – Marriott Vacation Club
Ethleen Maduro – Sales Associate – Colombian Emeralds International
Alexis Montero – Pool & Beach Manager – Riu Palace Aruba
Juliette Figaroa – Casino Operation Planner – Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino
Maria Murillo Perea – Assistant Warehouse Manager – Penha Aruba
Mark Kock – IT Technician – Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Jeandrick Arends – Senior Technician – Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
Roger Bergshoeff – AV Technician – Elite Productions & Entertainment
Melissa Bareño – Complex Director of Loss Prevention – Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club
Clarence Stuart – Sous Chef – Barceló Aruba
Dario Croes – Sales Representative – Professional Pest Control by Rentokil
Julio Ramirez – Senior Hospitality Agent – Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba
Frank Henriquez – Engineering Supervisor – Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort
Maundy Sabularse-Galedo – Waiter – Azia Restaurant & Lounge
Emerson Zamora Torres – Pool & Beach Supervisor – Divi & Tamarijn All Inclusive Resorts
Paul Etienne – Housekeeping Houseperson – Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club
Rafael Wever – Yield Manager – Eagle Aruba Resort
Zully Agudelo Valencia – Waitress – Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort
Press release: AHATA
