WTTC launches initiative to elevate more women to leadership roles
Travel industry leaders have pledged to move forward women’s equality and boost female representation in leadership roles in global travel and tourism.
At the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit, the WTTC launched its Women’s Initiative with the help of tennis legend, Martina Navratilova.
The public-private-academic partnership will seek to promote diversity and drive inclusivity across the industry.
It led to the signing of the WTTC Cancun Women’s Declaration to support women, and to recognise their contribution around the world.
The drive committed signatories to provide equal opportunities for women by removing barriers, ensuring fair treatment, and encouraging greater financial, professional, and social independence.
Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: "As the first female President and CEO of WTTC, it is an honour to champion this important initiative. The pledge made today with the launch of the first Women’s Initiative by a combination of the private, public and academic sectors to work towards women’s equality, marks a significant step forward."
The Women’s Initiative has two short-term core elements; developing skills and creating formal sponsorship and mentorship programs for young women.
Martina Navratilova said: "Change happens much quicker when it comes from the top. Companies would be more profitable if more women were in positions of power and boardrooms were less homogenous and reflected the diversity of their customers."
Where possible, companies will also be asked to assign a senior executive or Board member to be a sponsor for gender diversity and inclusion, who is accountable for progress.
The private sector pledged to increase female representation of leadership positions by 30-50% and aim toward increasing by a third, the representation of women to board levels by 2030.
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