Hon. Tova Tené Hamilton is an accomplished attorney-at-law and public official, recognized for her commitment to national development. As a passionate nation builder, she is dedicated to advancing Jamaica’s global competitiveness, with a particular focus on the tourism sector.

A graduate of the University of the West Indies and the Norman Manley Law School, Minister Hamilton began her career in the Attorney General’s Chambers before excelling in private practice, representing leading corporate clients, international investors, and key figures in Jamaica’s creative and entertainment industries. Her legal expertise, coupled with her skill in stakeholder engagement, were instrumental in her later contribution to public administration and tourism development.

Minister Hamilton’s expertise in the tourism sector is extensive and hands-on, honed during her tenure as Deputy Executive Director at the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo). While at TPDCo, she played a critical role in enhancing product quality, strengthening regulatory frameworks and championing initiatives to safeguard Jamaica’s standing as a premier tourist destination. Her experience has given her a unique understanding of the industry, connecting tactical product development with a clear, long-term strategic vision.

Her tourism experience is further shaped by her role as Member of Parliament for Trelawny Northern, one of Jamaica’s premier resort regions and home to a rapidly expanding tourism economy. Representing a constituency that includes major attractions, a growing hotel inventory and critical cruise infrastructure, she brings invaluable, on-the-ground knowledge of the industry’s direct impact on communities, tourism workers, farmers and small businesses.

In her current capacity as Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Minister Hamilton has been assigned specific responsibility for the cruise portfolio, including oversight of Jamaica Vacations Limited (JAMVAC). Her role is vital in driving strategic outcomes for this critical sub-sector, including advancing Jamaica’s cruise competitiveness, port development and maximizing visitor engagement and spend.

In addition, she chairs the high-level ‘Local First’ Task Force, a new strategic body that will spearhead efforts to ensure Jamaican businesses and individuals are the primary beneficiaries of the tourism sector by prioritizing local suppliers. The goal of this initiative is to keep more tourism revenue circulating within the local economy, boost community incomes, and build a more inclusive tourism industry.

Beyond tourism, Minister Hamilton has served on many national boards, contributing to policy development in trade, youth affairs, education, business development and national standards. She was appointed a Senator in 2020, which helped to pave the way for her entry into representational politics. Her historic election as the first woman to serve as Member of Parliament for Trelawny Northern, and the first successful Jamaica Labour Party representative there in over 30 years, speaks to her trailblazing spirit and commitment to public service.

Minister Hamilton’s hands-on leadership has translated into tangible results for the constituency, including improved infrastructure, community empowerment initiatives, education and housing support, as well as expanded social services. Through her charitable foundation, she champions programmes that uplift families, strengthen youth development and expand opportunity.

Minister Hamilton approaches her role with a solutions-driven mindset and a firm dedication to building a resilient, competitive and inclusive tourism sector that benefits all Jamaicans, while diligently serving the interests of her constituency.