A group of TRU students accompanied by a tourism faculty member got to see the real-world impact of Indigenous tourism while expanding their professional networks at this year’s International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC) in Tiohtià:ke (Montreal).
Assistant Teaching Professor Bridget Orsetti, along with Adventure Studies graduates and Tourism Management student Maya Fisher and and Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies students Zoe Kallo and Alana Norie attended the world’s largest Indigenous tourism conference.
This year’s IITC took place on the unceded lands of the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation, bringing together Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs and tourism professionals from across the globe. The three-day event featured inspiring workshops, insightful presentations, meaningful ceremonies and deep discussions about the future of Indigenous tourism.
“As Samantha Bradley, the Provincial and Territorial Engagement Manager from ITAC pointed out, most business conferences are very transactional, but this one is different—it creates a space to build genuine connections, form new friendships, and engage on a deeper level rooted in shared values”, said Bridget.
A major highlight of the conference was the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of leadership, collaboration and impact in the Indigenous tourism industry. The milestone was recognized with a thought-provoking panel discussion reflecting on achievements and future opportunities in the field.
TRU student volunteers played an integral role at the conference, assisting with guest registration, wayfinding and event logistics. This hands-on experience gave them a unique chance to engage with industry professionals, learn from Indigenous tourism leaders and gain valuable insights into the sector’s growth and challenges.
Something that stuck with Zoe was a quote from Keith Henry, CEO and president of ITAC: “When we share culture and understand each other, we heal.”
“We were warmly welcomed to a busy few days at the IITC last week, as we spent time engaging in several of the workshops and panels presented by various Indigenous Tourism operators. The authentic and genuine approach taken by all who attended the IITC provided an inspiring space to cultivate the sharing and understanding that is needed as we move forward to greater practices of decolonization and relationship building,” said Zoe.
This trip was a valuable learning opportunity. A huge thank-you to IITC for welcoming our students and providing such an enriching experience —we can’t wait to return next year!
Indigenous Awareness Week at TRU
This week also marks the start of Indigenous Awareness Week (March 3–7) at TRU to honour Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. The week provides the TRU community with opportunities to learn about Indigenous peoples, cultures, histories and stories of the local Secwépemc Nation and other Indigenous nations.
Explore the many fun and interactive events scheduled for this week here.
