The IGLTA Foundation, the charitable arm of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, has unveiled the recipients of its 2024 Global Convention fellowships. This prestigious program aims to support LGBTQ+ tourism professionals and emerging leaders from across the globe, fostering career growth and promoting the development of LGBTQ+ tourism.

The fellowship recipients for 2024 are:

  • Aayam Poudel (he/him) – Co-owner of Queermandu Tours and Travel in Nepal, Aayam is dedicated to curating unique, queer-centric experiences. His offerings, such as “Homo Momo,” “Kathmandu from a Queer Eye,” and the “Ghurka Slays” knife-making class, highlight Nepal’s vibrant LGBTQ+ culture.
  • Megan Licari (she/her) – Founder of Meg Sees the World in the UK, Megan recently graduated with a degree in Tourism Management. Her focus on inclusivity and advocacy for solo and LGBTQ+ travelers has earned her recognition, alongside her work in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) consultancy.
  • Doina Craciun (she/her) – A leader in LGBTQ+ tourism in France, Doina runs Queer Tours France, offering inclusive tours that celebrate the history of LGBTQ+ icons, ensuring their stories are shared with pride.
  • Syaiful “Rio” Rabindra (he/him) – A trailblazer in LGBTQ+ travel in Indonesia, Rio operates Gay Bali Travel, known for its personalized services and efforts to promote Bali as a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ visitors.

These fellowship recipients are playing a pivotal role in enhancing LGBTQ+ travel experiences worldwide, contributing to a more inclusive global tourism landscape.

“The IGLTA Foundation Global Fellowships empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ travel leaders,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella (he/him). “We hope this experience will serve as a springboard for their tourism careers, giving them the mentorship, connections, and tools they need to create a more inclusive travel landscape and take their businesses to the next level.”

The 2024 IGLTA Global Convention, set to take place in Osaka later this year, will welcome the newly announced fellowship recipients, giving them a unique platform to connect with travel and tourism professionals from across the globe. This event offers fellows invaluable opportunities to gain industry insights, receive mentorship, and forge connections that will accelerate their careers and influence the future of LGBTQ+ travel.

The IGLTA Foundation’s Global Fellowship program is committed to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in reaching their professional aspirations while contributing to the broader travel and tourism landscape. Since its inception, the program has awarded over 50 fellowships to entrepreneurs and students from 24 countries, offering mentorship and hands-on industry experience. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ tourism leaders, helping them make a meaningful impact on the global stage.

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