Certified Sampson and members of his delegation with STB reps.
PHILIPSBURG--The St. Maarten Tourism Bureau (STB) has launched a major collaboration with Trinidadian social-media creator Jamel Sampson, known as “Certified Sampson,” to spotlight the island’s natural beauty, culture and visitor experiences through a new content campaign.
Sampson, whose comedic characters “Ezekiel,” “Screws,” “Zion” and "Skillibeng" have earned him more than 4.5 million followers across social-media platforms, joined the STB in a multi-faceted promotional initiative during his recent visit to the island.
"Sampson's fan base of more than 4.5 million followers across his various social media platforms are able to witness St. Maarten through his uniquely energetic lens. We are thrilled to share the island’s distinctive stories to new audiences far and wide," said Jacqueline Louis, CEO IMBRACE, STB's Caribbean Agent.
Certified Sampson enjoying St. Maarten.
Certified Sampson and STB's Caribbean Agent Jacqueline Louis.
The collaboration uses both comedic skits and organic content to present the destination in a way that is “real, relatable and vibrant,” offering viewers a sense of St. Maarten’s landscapes, culture, cuisine and people.
During his stay, Sampson participated in a range of experiences that highlighted the island’s diversity. A scenic island tour showcased its beaches and lush surroundings. Adventure activities included a zipline ride with Rainforest Adventures SXM, a drive with St. Maarten Jetcars and a ride with SXM Posh MOKE Tours, along with witnessing a plane landing at the newly relaunched Princess Juliana International Airport.
A self-described foodie, Sampson sampled dishes across the island—from fine-dining restaurants to popular local eateries and street food vendors—and took part in the Festival de la Gastronomie. He also joined the St. Martin Day parade, connected with the community and highlighted pre-Carnival activity at the Festival Village.
To emphasize St. Maarten’s role as a regional hub, the Anguilla Tourism Board hosted a day trip to Anguilla via Calypso Charters, showcasing the ease of inter-island travel.
Reflecting on his visit, Sampson said, “I felt the local charm and gained a deeper love for St. Maarten, especially the food!"
Although his time on the island was brief, STB gathered extensive content that will be rolled out over the coming months as part of a teaser campaign leading up to St. Maarten’s 55th Carnival season, set for April 10 to May 5, 2026.
The partnership also includes a social-media engagement campaign with Sampson’s Certified Scoop Ice Cream parlours in Trinidad, which will feature a “St. Maarten Getaway” raffle offering fans the chance to win an island experience.
Plans are already in progress for Sampson’s return, including a “Meet & Greet” event, a motivational talk and a social-media influencer master class aimed at youth, adults and entrepreneurs. The initiative underscores STB’s commitment to using authentic influencer
content to elevate the destination’s appeal.
The activation was developed and organized by Jacqueline Louis, CEO of IMBRACE and Caribbean Agent for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. For further information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
