The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Foundation (IGLTAF) is set to bolster diversity and entrepreneurship in the travel sector.
They have announced an exciting partnership with wmnsWORK, a global accelerator program dedicated to nurturing women and nonbinary individuals at the grassroots of entrepreneurship. This collaboration marks a significant step towards inclusivity, especially in the tourism industry, a realm where diversity in leadership roles is notably scarce.
IGLTAF is not just supporting in name; they’re putting their commitment into action by offering a scholarship for a nonbinary or LGBTQ+ woman entrepreneur for the February 2024 wmnsWORK cohort. This 12-week virtual program, tailored for those in the early years of their tourism businesses, is more than just an accelerator – it’s a nurturing space fostering idea-sharing, community, and self-compassion.
The significance of this partnership is aptly summarized by IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella, who emphasizes the alignment of wmnsWORK’s objectives with the Foundation’s mission to cultivate inclusivity and amplify underrepresented voices in the travel industry. Tanzella’s enthusiasm for this initiative reflects a genuine aspiration to create more avenues for LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals to flourish in tourism.
Iris Serbanescu, the Founder of wmnsWORK, echoes this sentiment. By teaming up with IGLTAF, Serbanescu aims to expand the support for women and nonbinary individuals in the tourism industry, empowering them to grow their businesses and contribute to a more equitable future in the sector.
The urgency of such initiatives is underscored by a striking statistic: women make up 55% of the tourism industry, yet their presence is predominantly in support roles. Leadership positions are a rarity, a disparity wmnsWORK seeks to remedy by supporting the economic ownership and venture creation of women and nonbinary entrepreneurs in tourism.
This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a beacon of hope and progress, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in the tourism industry. It’s a promise of empowerment, opportunities, and a brighter tomorrow for LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals eager to make their mark in the world of travel.
wmnsWORK Tourism Accelerator February Cohort 2024 Application Form: https://form.jotform.com/232916294613257
