Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis (Winnipeg, MB)  — The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and Destination Indigenous were proud to return to Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) 2025, the country’s premier international tourism marketplace, which took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba from May 27–30, 2025. This year, ITAC showcased the strength and diversity of Indigenous tourism through a robust presence, impactful programming, and meaningful partnerships.

Honourable Nellie Kennedy Welcomes RVC 2025

ITAC leadership Keith Henry, President & CEO, Teresa Ryder, Director of Partnerships and Tamara Littlelight, Director of Marketing, had the honour of being invited to the Manitoba Legislature for a meeting with the Honourable Nelly Kennedy, Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism. During the gathering, Minister Kennedy delivered a ministerial statement highlighting the economic impact of RVC in Manitoba (begins on page 5 of this PDF and at 14:41 in this video). She emphasised the importance of connecting global buyers with Canadian sellers. Minister Kennedy also recognized the significant contributions of ITAC, Destination Canada, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, Travel Manitoba, and Tourism Winnipeg in ensuring the event’s success.

Destination Indigenous Takes the Spotlight at the RVC 2025 Opening Reception

Destination Indigenous supported the RVC 2025 Welcome Ceremony in partnership with Travel Manitoba, Indigenous Tourism Manitoba, and Tourism Winnipeg. ITAC was honoured to incorporate an Indigenous cultural element into the evening’s entertainment by welcoming the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers to the stage.

This talented sibling trio from Winnipeg delivered an electrifying performance, fusing the traditional Red River Jig with dynamic hip-hop moves in a style known as the hip-hop jig. Their energy and artistry captivated the audience, creating an unforgettable start to RVC 2025.

ITAC Supports Powerful Indigenous Welcome Ceremony

ITAC was honoured to support the Indigenous Welcome Ceremony in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Manitoba (ITM), Travel Manitoba, Tourism Winnipeg, and the Manito Ahbee Festival.

The ceremony opened with a vibrant mini grand entry, during which local dancers showcased a range of traditional dance styles—including the Grass Dance, Jingle Dress Dance, Chicken Dance, and Fancy Shawl Dance—brought to life by the powerful beat of drumming.

Following the grand entry, a series of heartfelt remarks were shared by Indigenous leaders, including Métis Elder Dan Dandenous, Keith Henry (ITAC), Holly Courchene (ITM) and Edna Nabess (Indigenous Tourism Manitoba). Each speaker reflected on the significance of Indigenous culture, the power of tourism to elevate Indigenous voices, and the importance of authentic Indigenous tourism representation—through ITAC’s The Original Original mark of excellence.

Destination Indigenous Pavilion

ITAC hosted 41 export-ready Indigenous tourism businesses at the Destination Indigenous Pavilion—a vibrant, dedicated space where Indigenous tourism was brought to the forefront of the marketplace floor. These businesses connected directly with international buyers, industry partners, and media to foster new relationships and grow global awareness of authentic Indigenous experiences across Canada.

ITAC RVC Mentorship Program

In its third year, the ITAC RVC Mentorship Program welcomed 10 mentees—either newly export-ready or nearing readiness—to experience RVC firsthand. The program offered by ITAC and Indigenous Tourism Alberta prepared emerging Indigenous tourism operators to manage their appointment schedules and confidently engage with trade and media at future events.

Inside Track Panel Participation

On Tuesday, May 27, Markus Kruse, ITAC’s Sales and Travel Trade Manager, joined the North American panel during Destination Canada’s Inside Track breakout sessions. His presentation highlighted the growth of Indigenous tourism, its trends, and ITAC’s leadership in driving international awareness through strategic programs, partnerships, and initiatives.

Trade & Media Engagement

ITAC’s Markus Kruse and Communications Manager Ryan Rogers participated in over 100 one-on-one trade appointments with international tour operators and travel advisors. In addition, Ryan Rogers took part in a roundtable discussion with 23 attending media representatives, further elevating the profile of Indigenous tourism in Canada.

Destination Canada and ITAC Networking Zone

Returning for a third year, the Destination Canada and ITAC Networking Zone was a central hub on the RVC showroom floor. This co-branded space fostered connection, collaboration, and community and featured a showcase of local Indigenous artisans, offering delegates an opportunity to engage directly with them.

As Indigenous tourism in Canada continues to grow in scale and significance, ITAC’s presence at RVC 2025 reinforced its commitment to meaningful partnerships, authentic storytelling, and a globally recognized Indigenous tourism sector.