Blacks in Travel & Tourism

06/19/2024

06/19/2024

CALLING ALL BLACK TOUR OPERATORS & TOUR GUIDES WORLDWIDE! YOUR TABLE IS WAITING FOR YOU!

*Shareable Post* We are thrilled to announce the launch of our online community for the Official Black Tour Operators Network! Membership is now open and completely free for independent Black tour operators and guides worldwide. By joining, you can network with fellow operators, access exclusive business growth and funding opportunities, stay updated with the latest industry news, and much more.

This is your chance to connect, learn, and grow within a supportive and dynamic community. Don’t miss out—join today and take your business to new heights at
https://black-tour-operators-network.mn.co/

06/19/2024

Happy Juneteenth!

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history. Juneteenth marks the moment on June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day stands as a testament to the enduring struggle for freedom and equality.

Juneteenth is more than a celebration; it is a time for reflection and recognition of the profound impact of African American history and culture on our nation. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging the past, understanding the ongoing journey toward equality, and committing to a future where freedom and justice are truly for all.

Let us honor the resilience and contributions of African Americans and recommit to the principles of justice, equality, and unity. Together, we can build a more inclusive and understanding society. Happy Juneteenth to all!

05/24/2024

🌍 New Episode Alert on Podcast! 🎙️ Join host Stephanie M. Jones, MBA as she speaks with Sherry Rupert, CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (). Dive into the crucial discussion on how tourism can preserve Indigenous cultures, create equitable opportunities, and sustain local communities. 🌱

Sherry shares her advocacy journey for Indigenous tourism and AIANTA’s role in promoting cultural heritage and driving economic growth within tribal nations. This enlightening episode tackles the challenges and opportunities in the tourism industry, stressing the need for inclusion and responsible partnerships.

🎧 Listen to uncover the transformative efforts being made to amplify underrepresented voices and reshape American history narratives through Indigenous tourism. Subscribe at https://www.thenecessarydisruptor.com.

05/13/2024

🌟 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎙️ Join Stephanie M Jones on the latest episode of Podcast featuring . Discover Denella’s transformative journey from a cruise corporate executive to a dynamic talk show host. This episode explores her resilience through the pandemic, her successful pivot to media with her show ‘Traveling with Denella Ri’chard’, and her commitment to spotlighting small Black businesses and destinations. 🌍

✨ Learn how Denella leverages disruption to forge new paths and opportunities in the travel and tourism industry. Be inspired by her story of entrepreneurship, networking, and divine guidance.

🔗 Tune in to be empowered to become a catalyst for change in your own career and life! Subscribe and listen at www.thenecessarydisruptor.com.

04/26/2024

Tune in for a very engaging necessary conversation with Stacy Ritter, CEO of on Disruptor discussing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in destination stewardship. As a dynamic leader and change agent, Stacy shares insights from her transition from politics to travel & tourism, emphasizing her efforts to amplify diverse cultures and communities in Visit Lauderdale, driving both economic and cultural growth. Tune in to listen to Episode 005, “Shattering Norms: Embracing Inclusivity in Destination Stewardship” as we explore the challenges faced by DMOs in addressing DEI and the critical role of bold, fearless leadership in shaping tourism strategies for a more inclusive future.
Listen and subscribe today at https://www.thenecessarydisruptor.com!

04/26/2024

podcast continues the conversation with and on their experiences with workplace bullying and the challenges of advocating for EDI in an environment resistant to acknowledging mistakes and making necessary changes is now available. If you missed part 1 of “Workplace Bullying: The Charge for The Travel & Tourism Industry to Lead Proactive Actions and Safeguard Solutions,” please listen to this necessary conversation before diving into part 2.

Tune in and subcribe at https://lnkd.in/evDw7TyF or your preferred podcast platform.

04/26/2024

The Necessary Disruptor Podcast continues the conversation with Dr. Brandi M. Baldwin,PhD and Zoe Moore on their experiences with workplace bullying and the challenges of advocating for EDI in an environment resistant to acknowledging mistakes and making necessary changes is now available. If you missed part 1 of "Workplace Bullying: The Charge for The Travel & Tourism Industry to Lead Proactive Actions and Safeguard Solutions," please listen to this necessary conversation before diving into part 2.

Tune in and subcribe at https://lnkd.in/evDw7TyF or your preferred podcast platform.

04/10/2024

Join The Necessary Disruptor for Part I of a necessary conversation on workplace bullying with Dr. Brandi M. Baldwin,PhD and Zoe Moore, airing tomorrow on The Necessary Disruptor Podcast! 🎙️ Tune in this Thursday, April 11, 2024, as we delve into the crucial topic of workplace dynamics and the impact on women.

In Part I, we'll be exploring some of the potential root causes behind workplace bullying, shedding light on this pervasive issue that affects many. But that's not all! Part II airs on April 18th, where the conversation gets even deeper.
Don't miss out on this important discussion. Subscribe to The Necessary Disruptor podcast at https://www.thenecessarydisruptor.comand be sure to catch Part I tomorrow!

03/28/2024

We’re thrilled to announce the successful launch of the Black Tour Operators Network! 🚀 On March 25th, Black tour operators from the U.S., Caribbean, and Africa came together at our virtual General Meeting to kick-start a community dedicated to networking, industry education, and business growth. 🌍

It was an incredible moment as Black tour suppliers from around the world showed up to create their own table.

As we continue on this journey, is committed to providing greater access to equitable opportunities throughout the travel & tourism industry. 🌟 Whether you’re looking to expand your network, enhance your skills, or access the global industry, the Black Tour Operators Network welcomes you!

Join us as we shape the future of Black tourism together. 💫

03/22/2024

We’re so excited to feature the journey of visionary leader and outdoors disruptor , Founder & CEO, on Podcast on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 7am EST!

We’re having an insightful conversation on “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Black Adventurers & Leaders in the Outdoors.”

Tune in to hear Rue drop some valuable gems on the value of slow and steady growth for building a sustainable, scalable and thriving organization while increasing diversity in the outdoors! She talks about some current and new innovative projects and partnerships too! Listen in at https://lnkd.in/evDw7TyF or on your preferred podcast platform.

03/21/2024

Engage with us! Join our network! We’re recruiting board members, Black tour operators and independent tour guides. Industry leaders and allies join us at our invitation-only Future of Black Tourism E3 Leadership Conclave to network with a group of multigenerational Black travel, tourism and hospitality leaders. For more information or questions, email us at [email protected].

03/21/2024

The Necessary Disruptor Podcast’s upcoming episode on “Workplace Bullying: The Charge for Travel & Tourism to Lead with Proactive Actions and Safeguard Solutions” is so powerful and enlightening! My guests, two badass necessary disruptors and EDI experts, Zoe Moore and Dr. Brandi M. Baldwin,PhD laid down some bold realities about workplace bullying. We dive deep during our discussion on bullying particularly toward Black women. Wow! A lot was unpacked! So much that there will be a Part I and II, two episodes on this important topic. Part I will air on April 11th and Part II airs on April 18th! Be certain to subscribe at www.thenecessarydisruptor.com. This is a conversation everyone in every industry needs to hear!

03/15/2024

More great press about the impact of our CEO Stephanie M Jones, The Necessary Disruptor efforts in the travel & tourism industry!

The five entrepreneurs listed here are just a few of the numerous Black women who have influenced the travel business.

03/14/2024

It’s launch day for The Necessary Disruptor Podcast! We’re so excited to launch Season 1 with Aditi Mohapatra, Global VP of Social Impact & Sustainability at Expedia Group.

We’re having an important conversation about “The Transformative Impact of Servant Leadership on Sustainability, Stewardship and Social Impact.”

Join us for this necessary conversation with Aditi, a neccesary disruptor transforming the future of global travel and tourism! Listen in at www.thenecessarydisruptor.com or on your preferred podcast platform. Watch the video recording on YouTube. Links are available on website. Your support is appreciated!

03/09/2024

Two steps forward…20 steps backwards! Why must Blacks in our industry, our country always have to be in battle mode fighting to maintain our civil rights, gain social equity and economic justice that should be our birth right? It shouldn’t be this hard, but yet it is in America!

The recent ruling by a Texas federal judge mandating that the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) must also serve white individuals has struck a chord. This decision reflects a growing trend of judicial actions that dilute the effectiveness of affirmative-action mandates, challenging the very foundations upon which we’ve sought to build a more inclusive and equitable industry.

CHEA/Blacks in Travel & Tourism’s work has been to rectify these imbalances, ensuring that Black entrepreneurs in travel and tourism have access to resources, technical assistance, and capital to thrive. This is not merely a matter of fairness but of enriching the industry with diverse perspectives and offerings that benefit us all.

The decision against the MBDA is disheartening because it represents a broader attack on the mechanisms we have to address these imbalances.

This ruling, and others like it, not only undermine these efforts but also signal a distressing shift away from recognizing and rectifying historical injustices.

03/09/2024

As a leading change agent and necessary disruptor in the travel and tourism industry, deeply committed to advancing equitable opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, the recent ruling by a Texas federal judge mandating that the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) must also serve white individuals has struck a chord with us. This decision reflects a growing trend of judicial actions that dilute the effectiveness of affirmative-action mandates, challenging the very foundations upon which we’ve sought to build a more inclusive and equitable industry.

Blacks in Travel & Tourism’s work has been to rectify these imbalances, ensuring that Black entrepreneurs in travel and tourism have access to resources, technical assistance, and capital to thrive. This is not merely a matter of fairness but of enriching the industry with diverse perspectives and offerings that benefit us all.

The decision against the MBDA is disheartening because it represents a broader attack on the mechanisms we have to address these imbalances.

It affects not just Black businesses, but other underrepresented groups within our industry, including women and LGBTQ+, by challenging the very policies designed to ensure we all have a fair shot at success. These are not battles we can fight alone! Allyship is necessary to disrupt these attacks!

A federal judge in Texas said Tuesday that a US Commerce Department agency created to help minority-owned must offer assistance to all individuals, regardless of race, siding with a group of White businessowners who claimed that its policies were unconstitutional.

03/08/2024

🌟 Happy International Women’s Day! 🌟

Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey of disruption with the launch of Season 1.0 of The Necessary Disruptor with Stephanie M. Jones Podcast on March 14, 2024! 🎙️Follow us for show updates.
Celebrating Women’s History Month, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on an extraordinary cohort of women who are spearheading innovation and transformation in the travel and tourism industry. Much appreciation to our Season 1.0 lineup of necessary disruptors!

Join us as we delve deep into the realms of leadership, DEI, sustainability, social impact, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 🚀 Together, let’s explore how these remarkable leaders are reshaping the landscape of travel for the betterment of all.

But that’s just the beginning! Season 2.0 is already in the works, dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of Black travel and tourism entrepreneurs and innovators. 🌍 Launching on August 1st, during Black Business Month, we’ll uncover the brilliance and resilience within this vibrant community.

And mark your calendars for Season 3.0, starting September 13th, as we showcase destinations, NGOs, and global brands at the forefront of driving necessary disruption for positive change in our industry. 🌏

But wait, there’s more! In between seasons, catch The Necessary Disruptor Podcast streaming live from key travel and tourism industry events throughout the year! More details to be announced!

Ready to embark on this groundbreaking journey with us? 🌟 Visit https://lnkd.in/evDw7TyF to subscribe and be a part of the movement shaping the future of global travel and tourism. Your support means the world to us! 🌍✨

03/07/2024

Exciting Announcement! CHEA is recruiting candidates for its Board of Directors. We’re seeking dynamic individuals from diverse backgrounds to join our Board to help us drive positive change for those we serve. Whether you’re an industry insider or from another field, we want to hear from you! If you’re interested or have a referral that would make an ideal Board candidate, please email a LinkedIn profile link to us at [email protected]! Join us in advancing our mission to create inclusive opportunities and amplify underrepresented voices in travel and tourism. Together, let’s shape a more equitable future for all!

03/07/2024

We’re so excited to see our CEO Stephanie M. Jones, MBA recognized among the 2024 Most Influential Women in Travel by ! Congratulations Stephanie!

Continuing its tradition of recognizing the significant impact women are having on all aspects of the travel industry, TravelPulse announces 2024's most influential women in travel.

03/06/2024

CALLING ALL BLACK TOUR OPERATORS!!!
We are thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to you to attend the inaugural general meeting and kick-off event of the Black Tour Operators Network, powered by Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance. This groundbreaking gathering, spearheaded by Black tour operators like yourself, aims to revolutionize the tourism industry by fostering greater access to education, networking, capital, and business development opportunities. Register today at www.blacksintourism.org.

02/24/2024

We’re looking forward to the launch of Season 1 of “The Necessary Disruptor with Stephanie M. Jones” podcast on March 14th! More Season 1 guests to be announced soon so follow for show updates!

02/19/2024

We are thrilled to announce the launch of "The Necessary Disruptor with Stephanie M. Jones Podcast," set to premiere on March 14, 2024. Season 1 of "The Necessary Disruptor" promises an inspiring lineup of guests, featuring influential women leaders from various facets of the travel and tourism industry. These guests, ranging from CEOs and founders to innovators and global thought leaders, will share their journeys, the challenges they've overcome, and the disruptive strategies they've employed to shape the future of travel and tourism.

Season 1 showcases how these visionary women are not only leading their organizations and communities but also inspiring a global movement towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable industry.

"The Necessary Disruptor with Stephanie M. Jones Podcast" is available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon, Spotify and Pandora. Ensure you subscribe to not miss an episode of this compelling series. Learn more at link in bio.

02/16/2024

Season 1 of podcast powerful line-up of women leading and disrupting the travel & tourism industry will be announced on Monday, 02.19.24!

02/15/2024

Another great, productive day in the studio with guests of “The Necessary Disruptor” with Stephanie M. Jones Podcast loading 03.14.24! Season 1.0 show calendar with dates & featured guests will be announced on Monday, February 19th! We’re so excited for the launch of Season 1.0 featuring and celebrating influential women leading and disrupting the travel & tourism industry. Stephanie’s show is bringing you candid, bold and necessary conversations and we invite you to tune in! Subscribe for updates and follow .

02/13/2024

Last week, CHEA’s training team spent a day training 47 small BIPOC suppliers who are partners with Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board how to become tourism & market ready to sustain and scale their businesses in the travel & tourism industry. We had a productive day and everyone was fully engaged and taking in the industry education we facilitated at the Miracle Theater in Inglewood, CA. Thank you for your intentionality, inclusivity and investment to help your small supplier partners become integrated into LA Tourism’s ecosystem and supply chain. Looking forward to our continual engagement!

As Black-owned business owners in the industry, our team speaks their language and understands their needs and challenges. Training small BIPOC businesses is personal to us and we dive deeper emotionally and mentally to connect with the person beyond their business. And, CHEA works hard to create and connect small BIPOC suppliers to industry opportunities beyond the training. Our approach is holistic!

02/01/2024

Breaking News!!!

The Necessary Disruptor™ with Stephanie M. Jones Podcast is a cutting-edge show aimed at delving deep into the minds of the most innovative and disruptive leaders across the travel & tourism industry. Stephanie will be bringing you bold and necessary conversations with Necessary Disruptors™ from the global travel & tourism industry and invite you to engage with us!

Plan to join her and leading travel & tourism thought leaders as she dives into disruption through the lens of leadership, sustainability, innovation, DEI and social impact. The show will explore disruptive ideas, address pressing challenges, and showcase innovative technologies that are reshaping our industry, destinations, and communities, all for the future of travel & tourism. Tune in March 14th for the launch! Learn more and subscribe at www.thenecessarydisruptor.com. Feel free to share the news!

01/23/2024

Congratulations to our founder Stephanie M. Jones on becoming a finalist for by JourneyWoman™: Women Over 50 Travel’ Lifetime Achievement Award.