Cab Drivers listen attentively during the seminar.

    Because of this, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), Belize Tourism Board (BTB), and private businesses banned together and secured a facilitator and conference room for a very important workshop. Held at the Sunbreeze Conference Room, a three day training was held for cab drivers, 85 of which signed up for the program. Facilitator Deon Chamberlain Miranda, from the Belize Youth Business Trust, highlighted many key points that proves beneficial for drivers. Some of the points discussed where the importance of public relations, responsibilities with the company employer, and dealing with irate customers.    

    Catherine Paz, San Pedro Chairperson for BTIA, commented, “We have always talked about the big headache that traffic is. As BTIA, we can not regulate traffic but we can contribute to it. A form of contribution was working on having a workshop for the many cab drivers on the island. We wanted to express to them the importance of the role that they play in the industry.” However, according to Paz, attendance was disappointing especially after the fact that a previous meeting had been held with the Presidents of the various Taxi Associations and the Federation. “They all commented that it was a great thing to have and that the drivers would be attending. It did not pan out that way,” she explains.    

    Deon Chamberlain Miranda stated, “What we’ve done is that we have identified that the first tourist experience happens when our visitors come out of their plane and head to their hotel. As they drive along, the taxi driver has the opportunity to sell Belize and talk about the qualities we have to offer. In turn, they are also the last people that tourists interact with. They are true ambassadors to our country. So we found it very relevant that they understand what it is to give proper service.” According to Miranda, participants have attended the workshop with open minds and have been very honest throughout the process, “they realized that it is a partnership but they want to involve the government in their business. They explained that one issue is the street conditions which heavily damage their vehicle.” Miranda ended by stating that the very same drivers are better than billboards, signs and commercials.    

    Guadalupe Lino was one of the participants and he commented that it was a worthwhile experience. “I recommend that if anyone has the chance and opportunity to attend one of these that it would be a great idea. I can say I learned so much, such as customer service and how to make more customers.” Lino stated that if given the chance he would participate in the workshop once more.

        Participants paid a $20 registration fee for the three day workshop and this included snack breaks and lunch.