The Taburiente conference hall at the GF Costa Adeje hotel was adorned yesterday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Circle of Entrepreneurs and Professionals of the South of Tenerife (CEST). Business leaders, mayors, politicians, and social influencers from the area gathered for an event that not only honoured the past but also addressed forthcoming challenges. During the occasion, acknowledgments were bestowed upon various individuals who have bolstered the business landscape of the region.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, as remarked by the mayor of Adeje, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, who emphasised the importance of the CEST in the progression of the South. He also touched upon a pertinent topic in his address: the incidents of tourismphobia. “You don’t play with essentials,” he stressed.
Historically, the South was predominantly agricultural land, which has now transformed into a very different scenario, becoming a vital area in the economic advancement of Tenerife. “In 1999, when the CEST was established, the South required a voice, an organisation that could structure its community,” reminisced the president of the Círculo, Javier Cabrera, who further underscored the association’s role as the “Pepe Grillo” that quietly reminds our representatives of the needs of the South.
The CEST encompasses more than 500 economic participants in the area, representing both large and small entrepreneurs. According to its leaders, the secret to its success has been the ability to include everyone. “The South requires contributions from all,” stated Cabrera, clarifying that collaboration is crucial to tackle future challenges. Tourism, the economic cornerstone of the region, was also a focal point in the discussions. “This is the industry that lifted us from poverty,” Fraga explained. The prevailing sentiment during the event was, overall, optimistic, envisioning an “exciting” future for the sector.
