Celebrating Women’s History Month, UN Tourism honors women worldwide fueling development and growth in rural communities through sustainable tourism.
In this celebration of Women’s History Month, the United Nations Tourism department is elated to spotlight pioneering women from communities worldwide. These women are at the forefront of fostering development, progress, and economic prosperity in their rural locales. Through initiatives such as the Best Tourism Villages, the United Nations Tourism aims to bolster these women’s efforts to propel tourism that is more sustainable and inclusive, highlighting diversity and celebrating the unyielding spirit of female entrepreneurs across the globe.
Speaking about the role of women in rural tourism development Sandra Carvão, UN Tourism’s Chief of Tourism Market Intelligence and Competitiveness shares, “Our Best Tourism Villages initiative stand as pillars of support for women-led enterprises and entrepreneurs worldwide. Through access to training, resources, and market opportunities, we’re not only advancing gender equality but also unlocking the untapped potential of women as key drivers of inclusive and resilient tourism development.
Across our Best Tourism Villages, projects thrive through the creativity of talented women and their families, transforming traditional crafts and cultural practices into valuable educational experiences. These women empower local communities, providing them with a support network and a new sustainable source of income. Taken together these initiatives serve as examples of how women are catalysts for economic growth and social progress, acting as key drivers for inclusive tourism development.”
Lamas, situated in the verdant mountains of Peru, serves as a home to the unique Amazonian people of Andean heritage, dedicated to the preservation of their cultural traditions. In this dynamic village, the women of Lamista are leading the charge in safeguarding traditional crafts with “Awadora,” a collective brand that represents 46 indigenous artisans from five Quechua communities. This endeavor not only empowers these women economically but also significantly boosts community-driven tourism by promoting economic growth.
In Lephis, Ethiopia, the Mishike Handicraft Association is making strides in empowering marginalized women and advancing social progress through the utilization of local resources like grass and bamboo for handicraft production. The Association is pivotal in providing women with opportunities to engage in the local economy and promoting sustainable tourism practices that conserve the village’s rich biodiversity.
Creel, Mexico, is committed to the preservation of its biocultural diversity, with the Rarámuri communities actively promoting job creation and the empowerment of women in the tourism sector through unique gastronomy and weaving experiences. These initiatives are integral to enriching the village’s cultural heritage and promoting economic development and diversification.
Dongbaek, in the Republic of Korea, known for its cultivation of camellia flowers used in cooking and beauty products, exemplifies the success of resident-led tourism initiatives. Led by women, the Dongbaek Village Mill is a prime example of how local economies can be revitalized through the production of camellia products and immersive cooking classes that celebrate and preserve local culinary traditions. Moreover, the Dongbaek Town Preservation and Research Council plays a crucial role in supporting women-operated tourism enterprises, thereby advancing the community’s tourism sector.
Xidi, China, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its distinctive architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, serves as a beacon for sustainable social development. The village’s Anhui Girls’ Agritainment initiative is a forefront in enhancing women’s employment opportunities and promoting heritage conservation by offering immersive homestay experiences. Additionally, it provides training for local providers and youth under 30 to bolster their participation in the tourism economy.
Oku-Matsushima, Japan, highlights the Nadeshiko Kaisei Juku initiative, which champions women in tourism through entrepreneurship seminars. This initiative has led to a transformation in local markets and shops, turning them into thriving businesses that contribute to revitalizing the local economy and enhancing the village’s resilience and social progress.
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