NESTLED in the heart of Luidas Vale, St Catherine, Worthy Park Estate’s Rum Tour isn’t just a journey — it’s an adventure led by the dynamic Shunna-Gay “Sugah” Mitchell. With her magnetic personality, Mitchell has transformed the tour into a captivating experience, drawing thousands of guests each week to the estate’s doors, making it an award-winning must-visit destination.

From the moment visitors enter the estate, Mitchell’s warm embrace and infectious energy set the tone for an unforgettable experience. Known affectionately as Sugah, her charisma guides guests through a one-and-a-half-hour immersive journey. From riding the jitney to witnessing the art of rum making, the tour culminates in a delightful rum flight tasting, showcasing their esteemed single estate-produced brands, Rum-Bar and Worthy Park.

“I knew I had to seize the opportunity,” Mitchell reminisced about when she saw the job advertisement. “I envisioned myself as the perfect fit — a self-starter capable of independently steering the Visitor Centre and Rum Tour.”

Assuming the visitor centre and tour supervisor role on March 4, 2019, Mitchell quickly realised the breadth of her responsibilities.

“Every facet of the operation became my domain,” she recounted. “From bartending to cashiering, I ensure the seamless functioning of the establishment.”

Navigating uncertainties became second nature to Mitchell, fostering personal growth and a profound respect for her diverse team.

“Embracing individuals of varied backgrounds, ages, and genders, I’ve continued to evolve,” she reflected. “Their insights have enriched my own, shaping me into a better leader.”

“As a supervisor, I’m committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation,” Mitchell asserted. “We embrace novel marketing strategies and value feedback from our diverse visitors to continually enhance the tour experience.”

She added: “Diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the cornerstones of our success. By championing inclusivity, we unlock a wealth of perspectives and experiences, driving creativity and excellence.”

Despite the challenges she’s faced as a woman in leadership, Mitchell remains resolute.

“With a supportive network of mentors and peers, I advocate for myself and future female leaders,” she affirmed. “Together, we dismantle barriers and cultivate a more equitable workplace.”