What are you doing on a day-to-day basis to champion inclusion in the industry?

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Alexis, a seasoned tourism and meetings specialist, doesn't just bring innovative concepts to the industry; she actively champions inclusion within it. Here's a glimpse into her daily efforts:

1. Working with Diverse Destinations: Her extensive experience with destinations worldwide, from Canada and Denmark to Colombia and Nepal, allows her to understand the unique needs and challenges of various cultures and communities. This fosters inclusive tourism practices that cater to diverse travellers and ensures all voices are heard within the industry.
2. Building Collaborative Networks: Alexis actively participates in industry organisations like the PCMA and the BC Meetings & Events Industry Working Group. These platforms allow her to connect with diverse professionals and collaborate on initiatives that promote equal opportunities and representation within the sector.
3. Sharing Knowledge and Expertise: As a tourism instructor and advisor, Alexis empowers others with her knowledge. By educating future professionals and mentoring individuals from different backgrounds, she fosters a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the long run.
4. Prioritising Community Engagement: Alexis' background in community engagement translates into her work, ensuring that diverse local communities are considered and involved in tourism development projects. This ensures that tourism benefits all stakeholders, not just specific segments.
5. Championing Sustainable Practices: While championing inclusion, Alexis recognises the importance of sustainable tourism. This ensures that tourism development respects and preserves the environment and cultural heritage of diverse communities, fostering a more inclusive and responsible industry for the future.

Through these daily actions, Alexis goes beyond being a tourism expert; she actively works to make the industry a more welcoming and inclusive space for all.

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Can you tell us about a project you have worked on or led?

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Throughout her career, Alexis has consistently demonstrated a commitment to ensuring inclusion in the tourism and meetings industry. This is evident in her work with global destinations, which often cater to diverse travellers with varying needs and backgrounds. For example, her involvement with DestinationNEXT, a project focused on helping destinations "move to the next level," suggests an emphasis on creating inclusive tourism experiences that cater to a wider range of visitors. Additionally, her work with organisations like the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), which advocates for diversity and inclusion within the meetings industry, further highlights her dedication to fostering a more inclusive space for all.