Year: 2025

Teresa Ryder

Teresa is proud to be of Musqueam descent. Upon finishing her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology at Simon Fraser University, Teresa has spent more than 10 years in Indigenous tourism development, starting her career with Indigenous Tourism BC. She has worked with Indigenous tourism operators and partners to grow… Read more

Walt Judas

Headshot of Walt Judas, the CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of BC.

Walt has been involved in the tourism industry for over 35 years and joined the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) in May 2015. As CEO, Walt leads multiple advocacy/policy files, sets the strategic course for TIABC, builds relationships with members and industry stakeholders, and communicates the value of… Read more

Mayor Marianne Alto

Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto is a facilitator by trade with university degrees in law and science.  Marianne was first elected to Victoria City Council in 2010 and elected as Mayor in 2022. As an advocate for community wellbeing, Mayor Alto facilitates work to create an intentionally transformed City. Her persistent advocacy on increasing… Read more

Mikey Sadowski

Mikey Sadowski is the Vice President of Global Communications at Intrepid Travel, a B Corp certified, purpose-driven tour operator. Mikey is involved in shaping the brand’s global positioning, advocacy and communications as a leader in responsible travel. Outside of Intrepid, he is a contributor, invited lecturer and advisory board member… Read more

Georgia Lavender

Passionate about the circular economy and social equity, Georgia is compelled to find tangible solutions for businesses that strive to make a positive impact. Through her work at Synergy Foundation, she has led and designed programs such as incubators and accelerators and leads many large-scale projects guiding businesses, not-for-profits, First… Read more

Jeremy Loveday

Jeremy Loveday is a strategic and creative leader who brings a diverse range of professional experience to his role as Executive Director of Public Affairs, Destination Stewardship and Sustainability at Destination Greater Victoria. A former Victoria City Councillor and CRD Director, Jeremy is guided by his passion for building vibrant… Read more

Jill Doucette

Jill Doucette founded Synergy in 2008, a leading climate action firm working in North America and the Caribbean. At the confluence of business, climate action and regenerative tourism, Jill and her team work with business, industry and communities to mobilize towards a sustainable future. She works on the frontier of… Read more

Keith Henry

Keith Henry headshot

Mr. Keith Henry is a Métis person that was born in Thompson, Manitoba and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Mr. Henry began his career in 1995 with teaching positions and has become well known for his strategic administrative and negotiations skills. Since 1998 Mr. Henry has led numerous provincial, federal… Read more

Kyle Bouwknecht

Headshot of Kyle Bouwknecht, Synergy Enterprises.

Kyle is the technical lead for Synergy’s diverse client base. He spends much of his time modeling emissions reductions, developing Excel tools, and supporting other team members on technical work. Kyle joined the Synergy team after completing a BSc in Environmental Science. He is passionate about energy systems and sustainability… Read more

Beth Potter

Beth Potter is a recognized leader with over 35 years of experience in provincial and national associations, including nearly 20 years in the tourism sector. As President & CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) from 2011 to 2021, she led efforts to establish tourism as a key… Read more