The Conscious Travel Foundation has partnered with Lightning Travel Recruitment to launch an Ambassadors Programme, which aims to create a more diverse and inclusive community in the industry.
Ten founding ambassadors are being sought, who will receive free membership to the foundation, which campaigns on sustainability issues.
The ambassadors can use their new platform to champion causes such as greenwashing, sustainability, LGBTQ+ issues, BAME representation, women in leadership and ageism within travel and tourism.
The programme aims to help ambassadors to develop their knowledge of sustainable travel and build connections with industry experts.
Olivia Cryer (pictured left), creative director at The Conscious Travel Foundation, said: “From students and campaigners to global disruptors with a vested interest in inclusive, positive impact travel, we are excited to welcome 10 new and dynamic voices into the foundation.
“We are passionate about changing the travel sector for the better in a way that will not only benefit those in the industry but have a positive impact on the planet for future generations.
“We recognise that minority groups are underrepresented, both in our organisation and in the tourism sector at large.”
Chris King (pictured right), who founded Lightning Travel Recruitment in 2019, added: “At Lightning, we believe in being the change we want to see and that is why we are so excited to partner with the incredible team at TCTF.
“It’s incredibly important to us to help amplify voices and provide opportunities to marginalised communities within the travel industry.
“That’s why creating this programme and partnering with TCTF is a big step in the right direction.”
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King identifies as non-binary/transfemme and is an LGBTQ+ activist within the travel sector.
Cryer continued: “Having welcomed Chris to our panel of experts and been so inspired by our recent panel discussion on D&I (diversity and inclusion) in the travel industry, we are excited to be partnering on this initiative that brings equality to the fore.”
TCTF aims to change how tourism affects the planet by spreading awareness of the social and environmental effects of travel and ways it can be made more sustainable.
The company raises money through fees and events to support projects and charities that safeguard the environment, cultures, communities and conservation around the world.
Lighting recently introduced its 25K scheme which means it will no longer work on roles with a base salary below £25,000.
It has also committed to paying all staff at least this wage, regardless of experience, to help increase base salaries within travel industry.
Applications for the first 10 ambassadors can be made until April 30.