Indigenous Tourism Alberta

We are deeply saddened by the passing of the Honorable Murray Sinclair, whose work as Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission helped guide all of us towards healing and understanding. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his leadership. At Indigenous Tourism Alberta, we recognize that tourism plays a vital role in reconciliation by sharing Indigenous stories and deepening connections between all people. In his memory, we encourage everyone to revisit the 94 Calls to Action and recommit to the ongoing path towards reconciliation: https://lnkd.in/d_vxM-2

Last week, ITA met with industry partners Banff Lake Louise Tourism, Canmore Kananaskis, Pursuit, Fairmont Springs Banff Hotel, and others in Banff, Alberta, for cultural awareness training. Indigenous Tourism Alberta’s (ITA) Cultural Awareness Workshops are designed to help those working in the tourism industry broaden their understanding of Indigenous peoples, land, and tourism. These full-day workshops take participants through aspects of history and cultural understanding, focusing on Indigenous tourism, responsibility in promoting authentic Indigenous tourism experiences, and best practices. Knowledge is catered to the specific area in which each training is located. This program intends to: - Help non-Indigenous stakeholders and tourism operators understand the history and cultural diversity of Indigenous communities in Alberta; - Promote respect, responsibility, and reciprocity as a foundational approach to relationship building between Indigenous communities and businesses and non-Indigenous tourism partners for the benefit of both. - Focus on how to create a safe space for Indigenous peoples and culture within the tourism industry. Thank you to our ITA members Quinn Soonias of Drift Out West Fly Fishing, Jeanette Many Guns of Many Guns Ranch, and Loretta Tuttauk of Loretta's Wellness Circle for taking up space and sharing your stories! #IndigenousTourismAlberta #IndigenousTourism #CulturalAwarenessTraining

Indigenous Tourism Alberta is seeking a visionary leader to step into the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This is a unique opportunity to not only drive the growth of Indigenous tourism across the province but most importantly, support Indigenous entrepreneurs in their mission to showcase authentic cultural experiences to travellers. For more details and to apply, visit: https://lnkd.in/gVW8bTeR

Exciting new opportunity to lead a passionate team Indigenous Tourism Alberta Connect with me today for more information. https://lnkd.in/gBqKwH48

A note of thanks to ITA CEO Shae Bird upon news of his forthcoming resignation, from ITA's board chair Brenda Holder. "Shae has exemplified visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our mission, and it has been a privilege to witness the transformative growth of our organization under his guidance." https://lnkd.in/gkwp8meu

This is the best opportunity of the year to learn about Indigenous tourism, connect with Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of the tourism industry in the Edmonton region, and meet with the ITA team. Register today.

Indigenous Tourism Alberta had the privilege of hosting journalist Samantha Falewée to experience a series of cultural adventures. Our tourism members guided her through an unforgettable heli-camping experience atop Mount Owen, led by Girth Hitch Guiding and Zucmin (Zúc'mn) Guiding, with an overnight base camp set at 7,500 feet. We also introduced her to Heather Black for an exhilarating e-bike excursion through Banff National Park. These are just a few of the many immersive, Indigenous-led experiences in the heart of the Rockies. We are thrilled to announce that the result of that journey has been beautifully captured in an article published in Condé Nast Traveler: The Canadian Rockies: Indigenous Tour Guides Offer Adventure With Respect of Land. Have a read: https://lnkd.in/gt3zRc2k This piece is a testament to our mission at Indigenous Tourism Alberta to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in achieving their goals and inviting the world to experience Indigenous culture. Articles like this are made possible through collaboration, and we’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to tartanbond, Travel Alberta, and all the incredible partners involved. Together, we continue to showcase Alberta as a place where Indigenous culture and sustainable adventure go hand in hand, offering visitors meaningful ways to connect with the land and its people. #IndigenousTourism

We’re ecstatic to help our member, Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino, celebrate the grand opening of their newly renovated events and entertainment centre! This state-of-the-art facility is set to become a vibrant hub for the Stoney Nakoda Nation, showcasing the immense talents of their community —musicians, artists, and entertainers alike. This exciting milestone not only highlights the growth and development within the Stoney Nakoda Nation but also invites a connection between visitors and Indigenous tourism in the region. The new entertainment centre will serve as a space where guests from around the world can experience authentic Indigenous culture during their stay in the Rockies. Congratulations 🥂 #IndigenousTourism #IndigenousTourismAlberta

Calling for Artisans/Vendors for Indigenous Tourism Alberta's Lethbridge Gathering! We're excited to have you as part of this event! DATE: Wednesday, November 6 VENUE: Lethbridge & District Agri Centre (101 Exhibition Way South) LOAD-IN/SET UP TIME: 9:15 AM to 10:15 AM MARKET HOURS: 10:15AM to 5:30PM We anticipate 100+ people will be attending this event. Participation as a vendor is free, but we welcome small donations of your products, which will be used as gifts at future ITA events. Each vendor will receive a table, table cloth, and access to power and the internet. Apply here: https://wkf.ms/3XQfkU1

We are thrilled to have such a deep and meaningful partner in Travel Alberta. The organization has shown a real commitment to Indigenous-led tourism, both in its support of ITA and in its partnerships with many Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs. We value this partnership and look forward to seeing it further blossom alongside the Indigenous tourism industry in the future.