Inclusive Travel Forum Launches with Powerful Call to Action for the Industry
On 10 June, more than 70 travel professionals gathered at the Spanish Tourist Office in London for the official launch of the Inclusive Travel Forum – a new initiative dedicated to helping the travel industry take meaningful, practical steps towards greater diversity, equity, and inclusion. The event also featured the first in a series of exclusive training sessions for members.
Created to provide hands-on support, expert training, and a growing resource hub, the Inclusive Travel Forum is designed for travel businesses that want to create more inclusive experiences for colleagues, customers, and communities – but may lack the in-house expertise or confidence to begin.
“The response has been overwhelming – the event was sold out, the room was full of energy and purpose, and people stayed long after the programme to connect and talk,” said Atlyn Forde, Founder of the Inclusive Travel Forum. “It’s clear that many in the sector are ready to move beyond good intentions and into informed action.”
Practical Training Rooted in Real Industry Needs
The afternoon began with a practical training session for members on ‘Diversity Insights and Identifying Key Inclusivity Themes’. Attendees explored how to assess their current inclusion profile, interpret sector data, and identify DEI priorities aligned with their commercial goals.
Through interactive exercises, participants mapped their most relevant inclusivity themes across five key areas: accessibility, inclusive marketing, community impact, colleague progression, and supplier diversity.
“The day gave us the opportunity to learn and connect with like-minded, passionate professionals who all have a shared interest in helping shape travel experiences and pioneering new solutions to create a more inclusive travel industry” said Kerri Bartholomew, Account Director, Clear Marketing.
Launch Event and Panel Discussion
The evening launch reception opened with a welcome from Atlyn Forde, followed by a panel discussion facilitated by Sophie Griffiths, Editor and Chief Purpose Officer at TTG Media, which featured:
Jo Rzymowska, seasoned cruise executive and non-executive director
Elle Pinkard, Founder of Destination Rainbow
Harry Wales, Accessibility and inclusive travel specialist
Jesus Ruiz from the Spanish Tourist Office
Each panelist shared the tangible steps their organisations and networks are taking to build more inclusive workplace cultures, improve accessibility, and provide safer, more welcoming experiences for all travellers.
The conversation highlighted:
The importance of safe and affirming destinations for LGBTQ+ families with children
The accessibility gap still present across transport, accommodation, and digital touchpoints
The role of internal education, leadership from the top and cross-sector collaboration in driving change
“It was a real privilege to be part of such a powerful and purposeful day. I took away so much from both the training and the evening discussions, with plenty of reflections to share back with our team and members” said Emma Taylor, Head of Membership AITO.
“We need to be talking to the unconverted and the training, practical tools and the community this new membership organisation will give the industry, is going to be a power for good” added Debbie Flynn, Managing Partner, Finn Partners.
A Growing Movement with Tangible Support
In closing remarks, Debbie Hindle, Advisory Board Member and renowned communications and responsible tourism leader in the travel sector, challenged the audience:
“Ignorance is no longer an excuse. Not having access to resources is no longer an excuse. The Inclusive Travel Forum exists to provide what you need — and it’s been designed for you.”
The Inclusive Travel Forum is now open for membership at three levels — including a free open tier for those starting out.
Members gain access to:
Three training sessions per year
How-to guides, toolkits, and templates via our 24/7 portal
121 Consultation
A DEI audit framework
Private online community
Expert advice and networking opportunities
The next member workshop will focus on "Developing an Effective DEI Strategy", taking place online in September.
A Sector-Wide Invitation
The event marked not just a launch, but a shift — a signal that travel businesses, big and small, are ready to have real conversations about inclusion and take practical steps forward.
If you're in the travel industry and ready to be part of the change, become a member and join the growing network of businesses committed to building a more inclusive, resilient, and customer-focused future.
For press or partnership enquiries: info@inclusivetravelforum.org
