Join us for an inspiring and dynamic couple of days at the International Women in Travel & Tourism Forum (IWTTF) and Awards 2025. A leading event dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the travel and tourism industry and recognising those leading the charge. This is an unparalleled opportunity to hear from influential voices at the forefront of change, from senior industry leaders to dynamic entrepreneurs, as well as those whose lives are directly impacted by the issues we’re tackling. With a passionate commitment to fostering a more equitable, sustainable, and successful industry, IWTTF is a unique platform for thought-provoking conversations and meaningful connections.
19 June 2025 | ||
| Time | Session | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| 08:15 | REGISTRATION | |
| 09:05 | OPENING WELCOME & INTRODUCTION | Jo Rzymowska, Jovolution, Emcee Zina Bencheikh, MD, EMEA Intrepid Travel Alessandra Alonso MD WIT CIC |
| 09:15 | KEYNOTE | Jude Kelly CBE, Founder of Wow Creative Practitioner, Business Leader and Celebrated Global Champion of Equality |
| 09:45 | THE BIG CONVERSATION Beyond Titles: A Candid Conversation on Allyship, Leadership, and How Travel Positively Impact the World Leadership isn’t just about positions and power—it’s about people. Join us for a heartfelt, no-BS conversation between two outstanding leaders in travel who are also allies, as they explore what it really means to support each other in the workplace and beyond. Through personal stories, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way, they’ll dive into the complexities of allyship, the importance of mentoring and advocacy and the role that travel plays in making the world a better place for all. This isn’t your typical corporate talk—no jargon, no fluff—just an honest reflection on how we show up for each other, lead with authenticity, and build meaningful professional relationships that last. Whether you’re a mentor, mentee, leader, or just figuring it all out, come ready for an insightful and engaging discussion that might just change the way you think about leadership. | James Thornton, CEO, Intrepid Travel Zina Bencheikh, MD, EMEA Moderated by Alessandra Alonso, MD WIT CIC |
| 10:15 | AUDIENCE INTERACTION | |
| 10:30 | BREAK | |
| 11:00 | DEEP DIVE Leadership in a Changing World | Julia Simpson, President, WTTC |
| 11:15 | PANEL SESSION The Leaders Panel: Navigating DEI Backlash, Sustainability, and ESG—What It Means for Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality As global industries face increasing scrutiny and shifting priorities, the travel, tourism, and hospitality sector is at the crossroads of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) backlash, sustainability challenges, and evolving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. This dynamic panel brings together industry leaders to explore how these pressing issues impact businesses, workforce strategies, and consumer expectations. Join us for an engaging conversation on how the industry can adapt, lead, and thrive amid evolving global expectations. Our panelists will discuss:
| Moderated by Juliet Kinsman Conde Nast Sustainability Editor, Founder Bouteco, Journalist & Podcaster
|
| 12:00 | AUDIENCE INTERACTION | |
| 12:15 | LUNCH BREAK | |
| 13:15 | DEEP DIVE | Felicia Letang Mogakane, Sargent and Media Liaison Officer, Black Mambas |
| 13:30 | PANEL SESSION Bridging the Wild: How Climate, Conservation & Gender Equity Shape Our Industry and Our Planet’s Future Environmental conservation, climate change, and wildlife protection are deeply interconnected with social and gender dynamics. This thought-provoking panel brings together experts, activists, and industry leaders to explore how gender-inclusive approaches can drive more effective and equitable solutions in travel, conservation and climate action. Key discussion points will include:
| Moderated By Holly Tuppen, Sustainable Travel Expert, Writer and Consultant
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| 14:15 | AUDIENCE INTERACTION | |
| 14:30 | BREAK | |
| 15:00 | DEEP DIVE Social Mobility | Natasha Ereira-Guyer, Founder Director of Civil Society Consulting (CSC) |
| 15:15 | PANEL SESSION Breaking Barriers: How the Travel & Tourism Industry Can Drive Social Mobility The travel and tourism industry has the power to be a force for social change, creating pathways to economic opportunity and upward mobility for individuals and communities worldwide. This panel will explore how businesses can play a pivotal role in fostering social mobility— offering fair wages, career development programs, and inclusive hiring practices. Key discussion points will include:
| Sarah Payne, Director Of Impact, Untours Foundation Carol Savage, CEO, Not In The Guide Books Clare Fenech, Chief People Officer, Eurail Christina Lawford, Founder & CEO of DiamondAir International Natasha Ereira-Guyer, Founder Director of Civil Society Consulting (CSC) Moderated by Tolene Van Der Merwe, Director of UK & Ireland, Malta Tourism Authority |
| 16:00 | AUDIENCE INTERACTION | |
| 16:15 | DEEP DIVE Allyship | Gary Ford, Men For Inclusion Interviewed by Sophie Griffiths, Editor and Chief Purpose Officer, TTG Media |
| 16:30 | PANEL SESSION Redefining Allyship: What do young people in travel and tourism tell us about the gender divide? In an era where online misogyny and the rise of the manosphere fuel division, and where boys increasingly feel excluded from conversations on gender equality, fostering genuine allyship between young women and boys has never been more critical. The travel and tourism industry—by promoting cultural exchange, education, and exposure to diverse perspectives— can also serve as a powerful antidote to polarisation, from youth travel programs that encourage mutual understanding to industry-led initiatives that champion inclusive narratives. How do younger generations of talent in the travel and tourism industry feel about the current situation? What do they believe travel can do to break down harmful stereotypes, create spaces for constructive dialogue, and empower the next generation to build a more equitable and connected world? | Moderated by Claire Steiner, Director ITT Future You and Country Director, GTTP Simona Listvanaite, Creative Strategist & AI Consultant Tia Ghai, Strategic Account Manager, Experience Connector Loulou O-Ren, Influencer at Outreach Talent Group Thomas Cochrane, Commercial Graduate at Expedia Group Shalini Roy, Sales Manager – UK & Europe at Intrepid Travel |
| 17:15 | CLOSING REMARKS | Finnbar Cornwall, COO, UK Ads Strategy , Google |
| 17:30 | NETWORKING DRINKS | |
| 18:30 | END OF EVENT | |