Conference expected to draw hundreds of global industry professionals to envision a collaborative, cross-sectoral and inclusive future.
RICHMOND, VA – Tourism Cares, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance, Inc., The Travel Foundation and the U.S. Cultural & Heritage Marketing Council announce the launch of the Power of Partnership Stewardship Summit (POPS). Taking place in Richmond, Virginia, October 15-18, 2023, the conference is dedicated to exploring the intersections of culture, climate, and community in travel and tourism. Hinged upon cross-sector innovations and participation from global industry professionals, including tour operators, travel advisors, and DMOs, the four-day event will connect and engage in critical discussions to envision a collaborative and inclusive future.
“As travel and tourism continue to take shape post-pandemic, there’s a need to radically change how the industry manages its stewardship of destinations and better engage the residents who live there,” said Stephanie M. Jones, Founder & CEO, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance, Inc., and Blacks in Travel & Tourism. “The primary goal of POPS is to generate action and partnerships, calling for industry transformation.”
Presented in partnership with Allianz Partners, Delta Air Lines and Expedia Group, the Summit program will feature expert speakers discussing topics and trends shaping the tourism space. Highlights for this year’s conference sessions include:
- Driving Economic Development to Underrepresented Communities through Cultural Tourism: Explore the critical importance of cultural heritage assets and experiences in destinations, communities and their neighborhoods – and how they stimulate economic growth, empower local communities and foster sustainable tourism.
- Future of Tourism Town Hall: Global Brands’ Commitment to Sustaining DEI & ESG: Hear from industry brands that have been intentional and successful in their efforts to develop internal DEI and ESG programs and strategies.
- Future of Tourism Town Hall: Destination 2030: How Tourism Must Adapt to Thrive: Leading experts in climate justice, resident engagement, corporate level climate action and local level urban farming will touch on scenarios for halving emissions, the risks ahead and tourism’s role in addressing climate change.
- Developing Messaging for Marketing Climate, Culture & Community for a Destination Stewardship Plan: Master best practices implemented by destinations and brands for effectively incorporating climate change, cultural heritage and local communities into a marketing strategy through messaging and storytelling.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
