Tourism NI event explores how to deliver more inclusive and accessible visitor experiences

Photo caption: (L-R) Tina O’Dwyer, CEO of The Tourism Space, Maria McAlister, Interim Experience Brand Development Manager at Tourism NI and Wendi Kane, Tourism Development Officer at Belfast City Council.

More than 85 accommodation providers, restaurants, tour operators and experience providers from across the region have so far graduated from the programme, which has created a vibrant new network of industry who are each committed to advancing sustainable and accessible tourism practices. 

Graduates came together at The Rabbit Hotel to take part in the Accessible Tourism & Sustainable Leadership event. 

Facilitated by Tina O’Dwyer, CEO of The Tourism Space, attendees had the opportunity to explore new approaches to welcoming more visitors and supporting long-term business success, while also building the resilience and confidence to lead through change. 

The session offered time for those gathered to connect and network with fellow tourism businesses from across Northern Ireland who have graduated from the Tourism Business Sustainability Programme, creating opportunities to build relationships and continue supporting each other. 

Attendees heard from Wendi Kane, Tourism Development Officer at Belfast City Council, who shared progress and best practices in advancing accessibility within the city’s tourism landscape.  

The event also featured a business panel discussion during which Alison Morris, from Derry City and Strabane District Council, Barry Flanagan, from Erne Water Taxi and Jenny Hanna from Green Holiday Cottages, offered valuable perspectives on sustainable leadership and collaborative approaches within the industry. 

Participants also engaged in interactive brainstorming sessions, group discussions and a unique sound healing experience led by Tessa Ann Greer from the Sound Healing Spa. 

Maria McAlister, Interim Experience Brand Development Manager at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI has established a structured sustainability pathway that enables businesses to access learning at every stage of their journey.  

“Through this dedicated Advanced Sustainability Graduate Series, businesses across Northern Ireland can access tailored learning to meet their evolving needs, while engaging in vitally important peer learning which promotes practical, real-world solutions.”