Indigenous Tourism BC Employment Opportunity - Director of Development & Governance

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is seeking an experienced professional to join its organization as the Director of Development & Governance. As a key leadership position, the successful candidate will report to the senior leadership team and play a pivotal role in advancing ITBC’s strategic growth and governance capacity.

The successful candidate will have:

• Extensive knowledge, experience, and wisdom of Indigenous cultures, specifically the diverse cultures within the First Nations of British Columbia

• A minimum of 7-10 years in a senior management position, preferably in a field related to the tourism industry, policy/governance, or not-for-profit organizations.

• Post-secondary education in Tourism, Business, Indigenous studies, or a related field

• Superior knowledge of multiple operational functions and principles, including project management, employee management, finance and Stakeholder/community engagement

• Strong knowledge of nonprofit governance, board development and organizational policy

• Excellent communication, facilitation and relationship building

• Knowledge of reconciliation, Indigenous governance and decolonizing approaches to leadership

Interested applicants should submit a current CV and letter of interest to Gail Joe at gail@indigenousbc.com by August 15, 2025.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Training for Leaders

go2HR is offering an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training bundle for business leaders. For $150.00 CAD, you can access four courses, including:

• An Introduction to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Gain a solid understanding of key EDI concepts, terminology, and the importance of fostering an equitable and diverse workplace.

• Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Workplace: Explore cultural perspectives around time, power, and communication to better support and engage with diverse teams.

• SuperHost® Foundations of Inclusive Service: Service For All™: Equip yourself and your team to deliver respectful, inclusive service to all customers, clients, and colleagues.

• Supervisor Training Module: Promoting EDI Principles: Learn practical strategies for supervisors to embed EDI values into everyday leadership, support diverse team members, and create a positive, inclusive work environment.

This bundle provides training with actionable skills for leaders to champion inclusion and collaboration within their workplaces.

Register today for the Southern Interior Regional Economic Summit

Early bird registration is available until August 29 for the Southern Interior Regional Economic Summit (SIRES).

SIRES is a collaborative space where leaders come together to shape the future of economic development across British Columbia’s Southern Interior. Their mission is to strengthen the regions’ economies through inclusive dialogue, practical strategies, and cross-sector partnerships that reflect the diverse voices of Southern Interior.

Join industry leaders in Salmon Arm on November 3-5, 2025, at the Prestige Harbourfront Resort Salmon Arm.

For more information and to take advantage of early bird registration prices visit https://www.sires.ca/ .

Community Emergency Preparedness Fund

The Province is improving emergency preparedness across British Columbia by providing nearly $2 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) to local governments and First Nations.

This funding will support 51 communities in developing and updating their public notification and evacuation route plans through 42 projects. These initiatives include mapping routes, enhancing public notification strategies, and conducting training exercises to test plans before an emergency strikes.

The Contribution of Tourism 2024

The Canadian Tourism Data Collective has found that the global Travel & Tourism sector experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, with its economic contribution reaching an all-time high of $11.1 trillion globally.

The sector supported 357 million jobs worldwide, representing approximately 1 in 10 jobs.

In Canada, tourism showed significant growth, contributing $50.8 billion to the GDP in 2024, a 3.6% increase from the previous year, and outpacing the national GDP growth rate. Tourism activities in Canada generated $129.7 billion in revenues in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in inflation-adjusted terms.

This highlights tourism's crucial role as a global economic powerhouse and a significant driver of prosperity and employment.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism is searching for a new Chief Executive Officer

Kootenay Rockies Tourism is seeking applications for the Chief Executive Officer position. This is an opportunity to lead a regional destination management organization in British Columbia. Based in Kimberley, the CEO will be responsible for guiding tourism strategy, destination development, and marketing initiatives across Southeastern BC. This role involves promoting the Kootenay Rockies, known for its alpine towns, pristine lakes, ski resorts, and vibrant communities. The CEO will also be instrumental in supporting sustainable tourism growth throughout the region.

Chemistry Consulting Group is managing the search and is looking for candidates with a deep understanding of destination leadership, strong industry relationships, and a vision for the future of BC tourism.

The Value of Tourism - Destination Canada’s New Landing Page

The team at Destination Canada is leading Team Canada with insight and research into unlocking the potential of Canada’s second-largest service export: tourism.

Destination Canada reveals that:

• 1 in 10 jobs in Canada relies on tourism

• There are 265,800 tourism businesses in 5000 communities

• Tourism contributes $130B annual revenue to the Canadian economy

Read more about the unique qualities of Canadian tourism and explore the new landing page outlining the Value of Tourism.

Booking.com’s 2025 Sustainable Travel Report

Booking.com has released the 10th edition of their annual research with insights from 32,000 travellers in 34 countries.

The 2025 Sustainable Travel Report reveals that more than half of global travellers now recognize the impact of tourism on local communities, not just the environment. While 57% view tourism as a net positive in their own areas, many cite concerns such as traffic, overcrowding, and rising living costs.

Instead of supporting caps on visitor numbers, travellers are in favour of investments in infrastructure like public transport, waste management, and environmental conservation. The report also finds that globally, mindful travel habits are becoming more mainstream, and travelling sustainably is a key priority for travellers.

BC Cabinet Shuffle - July 17, 2025

The B.C. government announced a cabinet shuffle today, July 17, with significant changes affecting key ministries.

Minister Spencer Chandra-Herbert has been reassigned from his role as Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (MTACS) to serve as the new Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. Anne Kang, MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

First elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2020 and 2024, Kang most recently served as Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills and has previously held roles as Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, Minister of Municipal Affairs, and Minister of Citizens’ Services.

BC Rivers Day 2025

BC Rivers Day returns for its 45th annual celebration on Sunday, September 28, 2025, marking one of the province’s largest community-driven environmental events. The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) has organized this day to bring together citizens, organizations, and communities to honour and safeguard the health of British Columbia’s rivers and waterways.

This event encourages stewardship, education, and community action while highlighting the importance of BC’s rivers.

To support efforts made towards the stewardship of BC’s rivers, ORCBC will offer $300 micro-grants to eligible groups organizing BC Rivers Day events. These funds are intended to cover event materials, educational supplies, or refreshments.

For more details about the micro-grants and BC Rivers Day, visit the ORCBC website.

Okanagan Gondola Breaks Ground

Ridge North America has begun construction on the Okanagan Gondola, a new all-ages tourism destination located between Kelowna and Vernon, offering panoramic views, immersive trails, and elevated dining. The project aims to enhance the region’s cultural and outdoor appeal while blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.

A groundbreaking ceremony held July 10 included representatives from Ridge North America, project partners Doppelmayr and Funis, and the Regional District of North Okanagan. For more information, visit okanagangondola.com

Out For Business Mentorship Program

The Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) is offering the Out For Business (OFB) mentorship program to support young 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs across Canada. Applications for the 2025/26 cohort are now open. This is Canada’s only mentorship program for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs.

One-on-one and group mentoring sessions enable mentors and mentees to expand their knowledge and networks, creating a mutually beneficial space for sharing experiences and expertise. The 10-month program advances 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs of all ages from diverse backgrounds.

For more information or to apply, visit cglcc.ca/programs/out-for-business or contact the CGLCC at info@cglcc.ca.

StartUP Entrepreneurial Skills Training Program

Community Futures North Okanagan is now accepting applications for the August 2025 cohort of its free StartUP Entrepreneurial Skills Training Program.

This 20-week program is designed for individuals in the North Okanagan who face multiple barriers and are interested in exploring self-employment or finding meaningful employment.

Participants will engage in 4 weeks of in-classroom training, 4 weeks of community-based business coaching, and 12 weeks of follow-up support. The program covers essential skills such as decision-making, critical thinking, digital technology, and financial management.

Additional supports include:

• Childcare for children under 3

• Commuting assistance for those outside Vernon

• Internet and mental health supports

• Coverage of business registration and website hosting costs.

Participants may also receive up to $1,500 in completion bonuses. To be eligible, applicants must be unemployed or precariously employed, legally entitled to work in Canada, not attending school full-time, and able to commit to 20 hours per week during the initial 4 weeks. Only five seats are available for this cohort.

For more information or to apply, contact Margo Fleming at margof@futuresbc.com or 250-545-2215 ext. 230.

Tourism Kamloops Announces the Freeride Fund

Tourism Kamloops has announced the launch of the Freeride Fund, a trail maintenance and community giveback initiative focused on Kamloops’ sanctioned trail networks and the need for sustainable trail upkeep.

The Freeride Fund ensures that sanctioned trail networks in Kamloops are supported and sustained, enabled through a formal partnership with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Foundation (TOTF). As a provincially registered non-profit society with CRA charitable status, TOTF provides the charitable framework to receive and manage donations. This partnership ensures that every contribution is tax-deductible (for amounts $20 and above) and fully directed to trail maintenance in Kamloops.

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Entry Deadline

Entries for the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards will be accepted until June 30th.

This is a free opportunity for individuals and organizations globally to be recognized for their contributions to sustainable travel and tourism. There are 30 categories available, covering a full range of sustainable practices within the industry.

Winners will be celebrated at the 2nd annual Gala Ceremony at Terra, Expo City Dubai, on October 29, 2025. Global voting will take place between July 14 and August 30.

YKA Link

Kamloops area tourism partners have launched YKA LINK (Leveraging Investment, Networking, and Knowledge), a new initiative to boost tourism and air service in the region.

Announced at the BC Aviation Council Conference in early June, the project aims to establish Kamloops Airport (YKA) as the primary gateway to the Interior. This alliance involves Kamloops Airport, TOTA, Tourism Sun Peaks, Tourism Kamloops, and the Thompson Nicola Regional District, and is supported by Destination BC.

YKA LINK will focus on coordinated marketing and route development to attract new air services and increase visitor numbers. The initiative seeks to enhance regional visibility and collaboration, connecting visitors to the diverse travel corridor of the North Thompson, Nicola Valleys, Shuswap, and Cariboo regions. This project will support the year-round visitor economy by improving access for both leisure and business travelers.

Thompson Okanagan Region Drought Levels

Recent sustained periods of hot and dry weather have led to increased drought levels across much of the Thompson Okanagan. As of June 12, 2025, the B.C. River Forecast Centre has raised the Okanagan basin to a Level 2 drought rating. The North and South Thompson basins are currently at Level 1, the Nicola and Similkameen basins are at Level 2, and the Lower Thompson has been elevated to a Level 3 rating.

Ease of Doing Business

The Province of British Columbia has launched an initiative to make it easier for businesses to operate and grow. The "Ease of Doing Business" aims to modernize regulations, streamline processes, and reduce barriers for businesses across all sectors, including tourism.

The government is inviting entrepreneurs and business owners to share their ideas, challenges, and suggestions through an online submission form. This review will help shape policies that will save time and reduce costs.

Submissions will be accepted until Fall 2025.

Kamloops Businesses Go Green through the Biosphere Commitment Program

Businesses across Kamloops are increasing their commitment to environmental responsibility through initiatives like TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program. This program helps tourism stakeholders in the Thompson Okanagan, such as the Kamloops Airport, Tourism Kamloops, and the B.C. Wildlife Park, to adopt more sustainable operations. The program provides tools and support for businesses to create sustainability action plans, which can include reducing single-use plastics or switching to renewable energy. These efforts not only align with the growing consumer demand for sustainability but also showcase a collective effort to create a greener future for the city.

Destination BC Announces New Chair

Destination BC has announced the appointment of Ingrid Jarrett as the new Chair of its Board of Directors, effective August 1, 2025. Jarrett brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over three decades of leadership in the tourism industry across British Columbia and Canada. She is the first-ever female President and CEO of the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) and has held leadership positions at Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Boutique Hotels and Resorts, and Watermark Beach Resort.

Jarrett has been instrumental in guiding the hospitality sector through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, securing significant financial relief and working to rebuild the industry's workforce. Her deep knowledge of marketing, business growth, and strategy will be a major asset in guiding Destination BC's strategic direction.