Colombia’s Trailblazing Community Tourism Projects Honored by UN Tourism

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

The “Innovation Challenge: Community Tourism: Colombia” concluded during the 122nd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council, recognizing trailblazing leaders and projects driving an inclusive and sustainable future for tourism. In partnership with Colombia’s Vice Ministry of Tourism and the National Tourism Fund, the challenge celebrated community-focused tourism innovations that highlight Colombia as a leader in this vital sector.

The competition sought to empower entrepreneurs, community-based organizations, and companies to collaborate on projects that prioritize sustainability, resilience, and inclusivity within tourism. Five outstanding initiatives were awarded across various categories:

Award Winners by Category

• Ethnic Communities
  Chiritour (Chocó)
  A cultural journey that brings to life the traditions and stories of local communities along the Atrato River.
• Rural and Urban Communities
  Comunidad del Encanto (Boyacá)
  Engaging eight communities through gamified tourism experiences designed to connect people and places.
• Communities Building Peace
  Museo de Arte y Memoria (Bolívar)
  A transformative space for reflection and empowerment, showcasing textile art that tells powerful stories of resilience.
• Women and Youth
  Lunaris (Nariño)
  Promoting the natural splendor of the El Charmolan Nature Reserve through conservation-focused visual storytelling.
• Companies Promoting Community-Based Tourism
  Check
  Delivering sustainable travel experiences across 15 destinations, fostering local community development.

Driving Innovation in Tourism

UN Executive Director of Tourism, Natalia Bayona, noted that “community-based tourism is empowering people from all backgrounds, including women, youth and post-conflict social groups. These examples showcase Colombia’s best projects and leaders, making it clear that innovation can drive the creation of opportunities.”

The challenge is part of a broader UN initiative to align tourism development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through its Department of Innovation, Education, and Investment, UN Tourism has fostered an Innovation Network connecting over 7,000 entrepreneurs, 500 companies, 290 investors, and numerous public and educational institutions. To date, this network has facilitated over $74 million in funding for tourism startups.

Celebrating a Sustainable Future

The “Innovation Challenge: Community Tourism: Colombia” has underscored the nation’s leadership in promoting sustainable and community-driven tourism. By supporting creative and impactful initiatives, Colombia continues to position itself as a global example of inclusive tourism development.

For further information, please refer to official announcements from Colombia’s Vice Ministry of Tourism or the UN Tourism Department.

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