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In
documenting the 20th century history of
Grenada
, the name Gertrude Protain is one that occupies front page.
Her multi-faceted contributions have made impact in several
areas of
Grenada
�s society and economy, however, her greatest contribution to
the Spice Isle was her pivotal role in establishment of
Grenada
�s Tourism Industry, one of the mainstays of the Grenada Economy
.
Mrs.
Protian�s early contribution was as an educator, when she taught
at the
Anglican
High School
for over 25 years. While
still a teacher there she was nominated, during the Administration
of the Honorable Herbert Blaize, to serve on the Legislative
Council in 1957. This
was a landmark in her life and in
Grenada
�s history as well, as it was the first time that a Grenadian
lady was thus elevated. She
reflected: � This was the greatest honour and challenge in my
life to date, and indeed a very stimulating period as well.�
However, it was her service in the area of tourism for which she
was famously known. In her positions as Executive Secretary and
Director of the Board of Tourism, she worked ardently to market
Grenada
� then virtually unknown in the world of travel � implemented
policies and helped to chart the course for
Grenada
�s tourism industry. In
1961, Mrs. Protain and Mr. Peter Morgan, former Minister of
Tourism in
Barbados
co-founded the Grenada Hotel Association.
She has received numerous awards for her work but was most
publicly recognized when the Queen of England conferred upon her
the prestigious Queen�s Honour � Member of the British Empire
( MBE) in 1968.
These distinctions aside, Ms. Protain was also know as a
broadcaster, sportswoman, goodwill ambassador, and as a dedicated
wife and mother. She
has also worked fervently as a volunteer for several organizations
including the Y WCA, Grenada National Charity Committee,
Queen
Elizabeth
Home
, Girl Guide Movement and served as a Director of the boards of
the
Grenada
National
Museum
and the National Commercial Bank.
She was indeed a progressive woman, and ahead of her time.
Her life is a model for young women to emulate.
Her contributions have certainly been of great value to
Grenada
in the areas of Education and Tourism, making her indeed worthy of
the title of � Great Grenadian�.
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