Noel Thompson, Freelance Writer

Armstrong Sutherland, of Appleton Rum Tours - Tourism Employee of the Year (right) and his manager Judi Schonbein at the JHTA 47th Anniversary banquet at Half Moon recently. - Photo by Janet Silvera

WESTERN BUREAU

One man's determination not to be a quitter has paid off satisfactorily, catapulting him into a self-made community ambassador and earning him the respect of others.

Armstrong Sutherland resides in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, but he treks through the terrain on a daily two-hour trip into Siloah, (another district in the parish) to the Appleton Estate where he works as a guest relations supervisor.

His hours can be long and work is sometimes hectic. In fact, very challenging, some days having to deal with up to 400 guests, in addition to regular duties. "Sometimes, I feel like giving up, but my determination has been so strong that I decided not to," Armstrong says.

Coveted award

His hard work and determination recently earned him the coveted Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) prize as Tourism Employee of the Year (2007-2008). Armstrong was presented with his award at a ceremony held at the Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay on June 7.

"Now I am a happy man. It feels as if they have thrown fertiliser at my feet to make me grow further in the job. I don't plan to go anywhere," Armstrong said.

Guests speak highly of him

His boss, Judy Schoenbein, is the general manager at the Appleton Estate Rum Tour. She is equally elated of his achievement. She described him as one of the best persons anybody could meet, adding: "Even the guests speak highly of him and have sent many letters of commendation after returning to their homeland."

She recalls that it was Armstrong's excellent mannerism and customer service that grabbed her attention after having lunch at a friend's restaurant in Treasure Beach four years ago.

"I actually stole him from my friend Jason Henzell (managing director of Jakes Hotel), with permission," Judy jibed. She adds that Armstrong had undergone training at various levels, which has enabled him to deal with persons from any background. Three months after working in the guest relations department, he was promoted to supervisor.

Grand celebration

As a mark of appreciation, Judy says the management and staff of Appleton Estate Rum Tour will be holding a grand celebration, at a date to be decided, in honour of Armstrong's achievement.

He says, to the best of his knowledge, he is the first recipient in the South St Elizabeth region, to be chosen for what he describes as "a prestigious award".

"This serves as a true motivation for me, just when I thought of giving up," he states.

Armstrong is also a voluntary ambulance driver and first-aid expert. The 39-year-old is married with two children.