Stacey Liburd’s Journey of Purpose, Leadership, and Caribbean Pride
From New York to Grenada: A Journey Rooted in Purpose
When Stacey Liburd decided to leave her fast-paced New York life behind, even her family was surprised. What began as a personal reset on the island of Anguilla eventually led her to a groundbreaking career in Caribbean tourism leadership. Now, as the CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Stacey brings a rare blend of diaspora experience, cultural fluency, and deep-rooted purpose to her new role.
Choosing the Unconventional Path
Ten years ago, Stacey took a leap. Tired of the grind between New York and New Jersey, she moved to Anguilla with no concrete plan—just a yearning for something different. Though met with skepticism from her Jamaican parents, her decision became the catalyst for an unexpected rise in the world of Caribbean tourism.
Stacey’s willingness to serve, learn, and lead – opened doors. First appointed to the Anguilla Tourist Board, she was later offered the role of Director of Tourism. Her story reminds us that bold career pivots can create space for unexpected growth, especially when guided by purpose and community.
A Real-Life Reflection of CDEM’s Lens 1
Stacey’s lived experience offers a clear example of Lens 1 of the Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model (CDEM): Where You Start Shapes How You See the World.
As someone who migrated from Jamaica to the U.S. during her youth (the 9–17 age range), she embodies the experience of a Caribbean-born immigrant. Later, her intentional return to the region for work and life placed her in a transnational space, moving between islands and the diaspora with ease and cultural fluency. Her story illustrates how identity isn’t fixed—it evolves across locations, roles, and responsibilities, especially when rooted in service to community.
Leading with Heart and Vision
Now at the helm in Grenada, Stacey enters her role with a blend of experience, cultural fluency, and spiritual grounding. Unlike her previous appointment, this position came through a formal application process—affirming her readiness and the region’s recognition of her leadership.
She has been warmly welcomed by the Grenadian people, and her leadership style reflects that same warmth. From town halls to public strategy presentations, Stacey is building trust through transparency and ensuring that local voices are heard.
Centering People and Community
What sets Stacey apart is her unwavering belief that tourism must benefit everyone—not just large enterprises. She measures success by how tourism dollars reach the ground, from roadside vendors to small business owners. Her people-first mindset also shows up internally: she actively develops her team, creating pathways for locals to move into leadership roles.
Diaspora & Regional Connection
For Stacey, Caribbean tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors from abroad—it’s about engaging the diaspora and strengthening regional partnerships. She sees Caribbean nationals living overseas as ambassadors and contributors to the tourism economy. Her strategy includes tapping into that power while promoting multi-island experiences to showcase the Caribbean’s rich diversity.
Innovation with Intention
While Stacey embraces new tools and technology, her focus is always on authenticity and access. Whether through storytelling, improved visitor experiences, or digital tools that enhance communication, she’s thinking about how to make the tourism journey more connected—from arrival to departure.
Leadership that Reflects Legacy and Culture
Stacey Liburd’s journey offers a meaningful blueprint for anyone navigating change. Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of Caribbean identity, a commitment to service, and the belief that culture, community, and career can align. In her words: “To whom much is given, much is required.” And in Grenada, she’s showing just how beautifully that can unfold.
Connect:
- Grenada Tourism Authority – https://www.puregrenada.com/
- Stacey Liburd – LinkedIn
Stay Connected
Connect with @carryonfriends – Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
Enjoyed the show? Please remember to leave a rating and review in Apple Podcasts.
A Breadfruit Media Production: Instagram
