For the past 18 years, Cordero Denard Cash has been working within the hospitality industry at Beaches Turks and Caicos, a journey which began as a pantry chef where he prepared salads, but Cordero's path was destined for more than culinary precision.
His singing talent, once a hidden gem, was soon discovered, setting him on a dual trajectory of culinary service and entertainment.
“At a very young age, I was exposed to music, and I continue to enjoy the classics,” Cordero reminisced. His musical taste is diverse, spanning melodies from icons like Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Patti Labelle, Stevie Wonder, and more contemporary artistes such as Ed Sheeran. “I listen to a wide array of music, so as a performer I do not limit myself to one genre. I am very dynamic. I will deliver whatever the show requires.”
Balancing his kitchen duties with entertainment gigs was no small feat, but Cordero's passion for both kept him going. Eventually, the demands of the entertainment department grew, and the administration recognised his potential, transitioning him fully into a role where his musical talents could shine brightest.
Two moments stand out in Cordero's illustrious career. The first was hosting a New Year’s Eve party, a significant event at Beaches. “For me to have successfully entertained that large audience by maintaining high energy, took great skill and gusto. Since then, there has been no turning back.”
The second unforgettable moment was his performance of "This is Me" from The Greatest Showman. After the show, a young girl on the autism spectrum approached him, saying, “I want to show people who I am.” Touched by her words, Cordero reflected, “that was very inspiring for me. In that moment, I realized that God allows me to shine my light, joy, and laughter through my talent.”
Cordero's journey is not just about his talent but also about the people who have supported him. Tanya Swann, director of sales, groups, and conventions, has been a mentor, guiding him through the industry's complexities. Jaseth Wilson, affectionately known as Ms. Pam, offers tough love and constructive criticism, always pushing him to be better. Fedeline Julien, manager of children’s programmes and Julianna Musgrove, former regional manager of learning and development have also been pivotal, offering step-by-step guidance and mutual support.
Fedeline admires Cordero’s tenacity. She shares, “Cordero ‘The Big Boy’ is an amazing team member with an outgoing personality. He is compassionate and caring. I love his drive to succeed, and no matter what challenges life throws his way, he always remains upbeat and positive.”
Cordero credits much of his professional growth to the Sandals Corporate University (SCU). “If it weren’t for the SCU, I would not be in this current position. I have completed courses such as Art of Selling, Leadership, Professional Communication, and I am also a certified hotel supervisor and hospitality trainer.”
As a supervisor, Cordero aims to empower his team, encouraging initiative and problem-solving. “I seek to lead from a place of love and I respect everyone.”
When asked to envision himself as a mythical creature, Cordero chooses the phoenix. “I have been through many challenges, and I believe these challenges are helping to shape my destiny. Out of the ashes, I shall rise. I will grow and flourish into that beautiful and majestic creature with brightly colored feathers, which symbolizes my beauty of heart and the victory in overcoming all odds.”
It is no surprise then, that Cordero, when asked to identify one word that best describes him, chose the word, “evolving”. His story is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to both his craft and the people he entertains. Cordero Denard Cash continues to inspire, rising from each challenge, ever dynamic and ever evolving.
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