Shall we all R.I.S.E?

Dear Tourism Leaders,

Welcome 😊

Over the past months, I've deeply reflected on the power of focused initiatives. 

My recent journey has been about stripping away the unnecessary and leaning towards more meaningful, impactful change. If you’ve followed me closely, you must have seen how much I have evolved—to focus on what truly matters to me—empowering women and girls!

If done well, this global shift will be the key to sustainable growth in the tourism industry, benefiting not just women but children, families, communities, and the wider economy.

Why Do We Need Empowerment?

The tourism sector has long been a significant driver of economic development, offering vast opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment. However, women, particularly in developing regions, often face barriers that limit their participation and advancement. 

Empowering women is not just a matter of social justice – it's an economic necessity. –Yvonne Joseph

Studies consistently show that when women thrive, communities and economies prosper.

As an entrepreneur, I have always believed that the most sustainable way to empower women is through ENTREPRENEURSHIP. 

I am championing a two-pronged approach to improving women's lives: tourism and entrepreneurship. Let's break it down:

Socio-economic empowerment means giving women more control and opportunities in both social and economic spheres.

Socially, it might involve greater decision-making power within their communities.

Economically, it translates to financial independence and security.

Tourism-led businesses (Tourism Entrepreneurship): Tourism is the engine that drives women-led businesses. This could involve a variety of ventures, such as:

• Homestays and guesthouses: Women can manage accommodation for tourists.

• Cultural tours and experiences: Women can lead tours that showcase their heritage and traditions.

• Handicrafts and souvenirs: Women can create and sell local crafts to tourists.

• Catering and food services: Women can provide authentic culinary experiences.

As we move along, I will write more about why this approach is effective, but first- let me tell you about my secret framework called R.I.S.E.

In 2023, I developed this framework I use for all my clients.

It’s called R.I.S.E, which means Resilient Initiatives for Social and Economic Empowerment (R.I.S.E) the last E is silent 🤭

R.I.S.E. embodies the principles I hold dear: These principles are crucial for driving sustainable development and gender equality in the tourism industry.

In the coming weeks, I’ll share more about my framework and how you can use it to cause ripple effects of positive changes in your communities and workplace. 

My weekly notes are intended to keep you informed, inspired, and engaged in our collective mission of empowering women in tourism. 

I promise to keep them short, simple, and educative.

I hope they serve as a catalyst for action and a source of practical insights you can apply to your work. 

Let’s R.I.S.E together and create an inclusive future for all!

PS: If you subscribed, please take one more action by commenting on one thing you hope to learn from my notes. 

 See you every Friday between 11 am and 12 pm (Gulf Standard Time).  

With Love,

Yvonne Joseph