Lekwungwen Territories, Victoria, BC – The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is pleased to announce four of its team members will be speaking as subject matter experts at the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference this January 22-25, 2023.

IMPACT was created to align the Canadian tourism industry, as well as stakeholders and communities touched by tourism, with a vision to achieve economic, social and environmental sustainability. IMPACT focuses on innovative practices that enhance the sustainable legacy of the tourism and travel industry in Canada.

“I’m so proud of our team for ensuring strong Indigenous voices are heard at this iconic conference that aligns with ITAC’s values,” shared Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “Seeing our team members share their expertise with the tourism industry reiterates how lucky we are to have these individuals leading the future of Indigenous tourism.”

Speaking at the conference is:

Teresa Ryder, Director of Partnerships, who will act as co-emcee and co-present a session entitled “The View: Is Tourism Sustainable?” Teresa is of Musqueam descent. Prior to joining ITAC, Teresa worked for the Indigenous Tourism Association of BC as the Manager of Product Development, as well as in various roles throughout the hospitality industry.

Genevieve Huneault, Development Manager, will host a session on “The Original Original – Indigenous Accreditation Program.” The session will focus on reconciliation and Indigenous tourism. Genevieve is a regenerative tourism specialist with a long-standing commitment to social and environmental justice.

Yvette Rasmussen, Program Manager, Toronto Metro University, will be joining Northern WE on a session titled “Northern Women Entrepreneurs in Tourism: Nothing About Us, Without Us.” The session will explore the barriers to entrepreneurship faced by Indigenous women in tourism and apply Two Eyed Seeing to envision a better business model and journey for women of the North. Yvette is a proud member of the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation in British Columbia and has dedicated her life work to advocating for underserved and marginalized populations.

Zane Buchanan, Creative Content Manager, will join a panel to speak on “Responsible Marketing & Communications.” Zane is a Métis writer, producer and digital creator. Beyond managing content for ITAC, Zane is the editor of Nations Magazine, a contributor for Canadian Geographic, a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and a judge for the Travel Media Association of Canada Awards.

For more information on IMPACT, please visit www.tourismvictoria.com/impact. For more information on ITAC visit www.IndigenousTourism.ca