OSAKA, Japan (2 May 2024)—The IGLTA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, has opened applications for the 2024 Convention Fellowship program. This program offers a unique opportunity for small businesses in LGBTQ+ tourism and aspiring travel, tourism, and hospitality leaders to attend the IGLTA Global Convention in Osaka, Japan, as first-time attendees.
Fellowship recipients will receive:
- Mentorship: Gain invaluable guidance from established industry leaders.
- Complimentary IGLTA Membership: Become part of the world's leading LGBTQ+ travel network.
- Comprehensive Travel Support: All convention registration fees and travel expenses are covered.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with key players shaping the global LGBTQ+ travel landscape.
- Education: Expand your knowledge with insightful sessions and workshops.
“The IGLTA Foundation Convention Fellowships empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ travel leaders,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella (he/him). “By attending this historic Global Convention in Japan—our first in Asia—fellowship recipients will receive valuable mentorship, forge industry connections, and contribute to a more inclusive travel landscape for all.”
“Words cannot express the depth of gratitude I feel toward IGLTA for the incredible opportunity to be a fellowship recipient in Puerto Rico. This experience has been nothing short of transformative, both personally and professionally,” said Alex Semidey (he/him/they/them), 2023 IGLTA Convention Fellowship recipient. “The support, guidance, and camaraderie I received from IGLTA and its members have empowered me to grow, learn, and thrive in ways I never imagined.”
Applications are due 17 May. Link to apply for a Fellowship is available here.
The IGLTA Foundation's Fellowship program aims to help LGBTQ+ individuals achieve their professional goals and contribute to the growth of the travel and tourism industry. Through its work, the Foundation has awarded 55 fellowships to entrepreneurs and students in 24 countries, providing professional development, and industry experience to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ tourism leaders worldwide.
The 2024 IGLTA Global Convention is set for 23-26 October and is planned to coincide with Osaka Pride (tentatively scheduled for 26-27 October). Each year, the convention brings together top industry leaders and experts from around the world to share insights, experiences and best practices in LGBTQ+ tourism. For more information about the convention and registration, please visit IGLTA convention.org.
About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of UN Tourism (formerly known as the United Nations World Tourism Organization). IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA's global network includes 13,000+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook at @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness and @IGLTAFoundation, X and LinkedIn at @IGLTA and @IGLTAFoundation, and Instagram @IGLTA.