Seychelles has ushered in a new era of leadership in its tourism and culture sectors with the appointment of Amanda Bernstein as Minister of Tourism and Culture. Her appointment marks a significant moment for a portfolio that remains central to the country’s economic resilience and cultural expression. She succeeds Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, who led the ministry through a period of recovery and repositioning following the pandemic.
Tourism is the backbone of Seychelles’ economy, accounting for nearly one-third of its GDP and serving as the country’s largest source of employment and foreign exchange. Renowned for its pristine beaches, marine biodiversity, and cultural fusion, Seychelles has long been a global model for small-island destination management and sustainable tourism policy. In recent years, the government has intensified efforts to balance growth with conservation, strengthen air connectivity, and diversify source markets beyond Europe.
Minister Bernstein brings to the role a wealth of experience spanning diplomacy, corporate strategy, and communications leadership. She previously served with Seychelles’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including as Chancellor at the country’s mission in Addis Ababa, before moving to the private sector where she led communications and reputation strategy for ABSA’s regional operations. Her background in pan-African engagement, ESG and stakeholder communication, and brand leadership provides a strong foundation for the ministry’s evolving priorities.
The Ministry of Tourism and Culture continues to be one of Seychelles’ most influential government bodies, responsible for strengthening the country’s global tourism appeal while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Bernstein’s appointment comes at a pivotal time, as the sector adapts to shifting global travel patterns, deepens sustainability commitments, and works to enhance destination competitiveness.
Her mandate will cover policy leadership, stakeholder coordination, and the advancement of programmes that connect tourism growth with cultural preservation, community empowerment, and inclusive economic value. Among her priorities are improving the visitor experience, expanding market reach, promoting creative industries, and embedding cultural narratives more deeply into the national tourism strategy.
Bernstein’s entry into office represents both continuity and renewal, underlining Seychelles’ ongoing commitment to strategic leadership and institutional excellence. As she assumes responsibility for one of the nation’s most defining portfolios, her stewardship is expected to consolidate reforms and reinforce Seychelles’ reputation as a sustainably managed, culturally vibrant, and globally admired destination.
