For decades, women have achieved remarkable milestones, shaping not only the landscape of travel and tourism but also leaving indelible marks across economic, political, and social spheres simultaneously. Their contributions resonate as pillars of progress and empowerment. On International Women’s Day, T3 takes the opportunity to draw a spotlight on our women readers from cross-section of the industry. Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel & Tourism Association (TAAI) shares her views with T3.
Presence of a healthy ecosystem for women entrepreneurs in the tourism domain, & Challenges:
As President of TAAI, Vice Chairperson of FAITH & Chairperson of THSC, I believe, that establishing a robust monitoring and assessment mechanism to track the progress of women in the tourism industry is crucial. Such a mechanism will serve several essential purposes. Firstly, it will ensure visibility and recognition for the contributions of women. By systematically tracking their achievements, we will be able to celebrate their successes and create role models for aspiring women in the field.
Regular assessments reveal disparities in representation, leadership roles, and skill development. Armed with this data, we can design targeted initiatives to address these gaps. Whether it’s promoting women entrepreneurs, enhancing training programs, or fostering mentorship, data-driven insights guide our actions.
Understanding the specific challenges faced by women—be it in entrepreneurship, tour guiding, or management will allow us to tailor policies that empower them. For instance, providing financial support, mentorship networks, or flexible work arrangements can make a significant difference. Fourthly, equality and empowerment are at the core of sustainable progress. Monitoring will ensure that women have equal access to opportunities, resources, and professional growth. When women thrive, the entire tourism ecosystem benefits.
The involvement of women entrepreneurs in the tourism industry is crucial for sustainable development. However, several factors can hinder the creation of a healthy ecosystem for women entrepreneurs in this field. Societal norms and stereotypes often limit women’s roles to specific domains, which may discourage them from pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. Confidence in one’s abilities significantly impacts entrepreneurial success, and women entrepreneurs may face self-doubt due to societal expectations or lack of representation. Access to supportive leadership is critical, as women need mentors, role models, and advocates who champion their cause.
Psychological well-being and empowerment play a vital role, and stress, imposter syndrome, and work-life balance challenges can affect their entrepreneurial journey. Addressing economic disparities, limited access to capital, and social expectations through targeted policies, financial support, and awareness campaigns is crucial. Recognizing and accommodating individual attributes, including risk tolerance, family responsibilities, and cultural norms, can create a more supportive ecosystem. In summary, promoting women’s entrepreneurship in tourism requires addressing these multifaceted challenges. By fostering an environment that values diversity, provides resources, and encourages collaboration, we can create a healthier ecosystem for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
Message for budding women entrepreneurs:
- Dream Big, Start Small as your vision may be grand, but don’t be overwhelmed. Begin with small steps. Whether it’s a boutique hotel, a travel agency, or an eco-tourism venture, take that first leap. Every empire started with a single brick.
- Know Your Niche as you must understand your unique selling proposition. What sets your travel business apart? Is it personalized experiences, sustainable practices, or cultural immersion? Identify your niche and build your brand around it.
- Learn continuously as the travel industry evolves rapidly. Stay updated on trends, technology advancements, and customer preferences. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and network with fellow entrepreneurs. Knowledge is your compass in this dynamic landscape.
- Embrace Resilience as entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride. There will be highs and lows. Embrace failures as learning opportunities. Stay resilient, adapt to challenges, and keep moving forward. Remember, setbacks are stepping stones to success.
- Network and collaborate to connect with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential clients. Attend conferences, join online forums, and participate in collaborative projects. Building a strong network opens doors to partnerships, mentorship, and growth.
- Prioritize self-care as running a business can be all-consuming. Don’t forget to care for yourself. Maintain a work-life balance, practice mindfulness, and prioritize physical and mental well-being. A healthy you fuels a successful business journey.
- Most importantly remember, Woman has the power to nurture & create and thus the power to shape the future of travel &create memorable experiences for countless travellers. Believe in yourself, stay passionate, and enjoy the journey!
