The Barefoot Trainer, according to its website, helps private islands, iconic enclaves, exclusive estates, and luxury boutique resorts turn their teams into caring human connectors, super sharp hosts who love creating memorable and magical moments. Photo: barefoottrainerbvi.com

The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) will launch the Barefoot Trainer Hospitality Series on October 22, 2025, in Virgin Gorda. Photo: GIS Facebook

The training series organised by the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission aims to enhance the Territory’s readiness to welcome guests and create lasting impressions. Photo: Facebook

The BVITBFC has formed a strategic partnership with Barefoot Training and Consulting Ltd., in collaboration with R Hospitality Ltd., a Virgin Islands-based luxury hospitality training provider known for transforming service teams into caring, confident, and customer-focused hosts who deliver memorable guest experiences.

This programme will be led by seasoned trainers Lisa-Anne Redfern and Marta Fernandes, both of whom bring extensive experience from prestigious luxury properties, including Virgin Limited Edition’s Necker Island and Moskito Island.

Enhancing VI's 'readiness to welcome guests'

The training series aims to enhance the Territory’s readiness to welcome guests and create lasting impressions. The series will focus on mindset transformation and visitor stewardship within the accommodations sector of the hospitality industry.

Participants will gain practical, hands-on skills designed to help them communicate and connect effectively and professionally with guests. The primary goal of this initiative is to promote growth and improve guest experiences in the accommodations sector.

Mrs Vionie Pickering, Product Director, emphasised the importance of ongoing training in today's competitive business environment. 

In a press release, she stated, “In today’s competitive landscape, the way we engage guests is fundamental to fostering a customer-centric culture throughout the BVI. As part of our ‘Readiness Programme,’ ongoing training is essential to ensure hospitality professionals remain well-equipped to welcome guests. Our ‘Readiness Programme’ reflects strategies and values that focus on building trust, consistency, and emotional connections within our tourism and hospitality industry.”