Hassell brings five years of prior experience within
the Tourist Bureau and more recent service with the Public Entity Saba. She
initially served as Policy Advisor for Economic Affairs with a focus on tourism
and later as Senior Policy Advisor. During this period, she gained experience
in project management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, and
represented Saba at international forums.
Her professional background includes work across tourism, public policy,
strategic planning, and island development. According to the Bureau, Hassell
has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the island’s sustainable tourism
objectives through her previous roles in both the public and private sectors.
Hassell holds a bachelor’s degree in European Studies
with a specialization in Strategic Export Marketing and a minor in
Sustainability in Business from The Hague University of Applied Sciences. A
native of Saba, she brings nearly a decade of combined professional experience
and long-term engagement with local development initiatives.
“Having been raised in
Saba, I have always felt the pull to contribute,” said Courtney Hassell. “I
am extremely honored for the opportunity and privilege to serve Saba as
Director of Tourism. To me, tourism is not just about attracting visitors –
it’s about sharing who we are with the world, preserving our cultural identity,
and improving the well-being of our residents. I look forward to working with
all stakeholders as we continue to showcase the Unspoiled Queen of the
Caribbean to the world.”
The Saba Tourism Bureau stated that Hassell’s
appointment supports the continued implementation of the island’s Tourism
Master Plan, with an emphasis on long-term planning and sector alignment.
Commenting on the appointment, Malinda Hassell, the previous
acting Director of Tourism, said: “We are pleased to welcome Courtney as
Director of Tourism and are confident that she will be instrumental in guiding
Saba’s tourism sector forward while safeguarding what makes our island so special.”
Malinda Hassell will transition into her new position
as Domain Manager for Business Development & Mobility, where she will
support the domains and leadership of Harbor, Airport, Tourism, Economic
Affairs, and Mobility.
Tags: Malinda Hassell Saba Tourism Bureau Courtney Hassell
