Taking Responsibility
for Tourism
Hello, I’m Saskia, a passionate advocate for responsible and sustainable tourism. My mission is simple: to inspire positive change by leveraging the power of tourism to build a better future. I believe in people's inherent kindness and our collective ability to create a lasting impact on the world. Tourism, to me, is more than just travel; it is about forging deeper connections, enhancing mutual understanding, and supporting sustainability for both the planet and its people.
With more than a decade of experience in tourism and hospitality, my career has taken me to various countries, allowing me to collaborate with incredible companies and projects that share my beliefs and values. I have an MSc in Responsible Tourism Management from Leeds Beckett University and have spent my career working with businesses, communities, and individuals to promote more responsible and sustainable travel practices.
My work with Considerate Hoteliers, a data-driven sustainability consultancy for the hospitality and tourism industry, as well as my roles as Marketing Leader and Chief of Sustainability in numerous hotel businesses, have had a significant impact. I've used my knowledge in responsible tourism management and communication to implement innovative marketing strategies that not only improve consumer experiences but also increase operational efficiency. My passion for sustainability has inspired me to develop frameworks that promote responsible tourism and streamline business practices. By empowering staff and fostering a strong commitment to ethical standards, I have contributed to advancing the industry's focus on sustainable and responsible growth.
I'm a communicator at heart. Through storytelling, I hope to raise the voices of people trying to make tourism a force for good. Whether I'm working with communities in The Gambia with Ninki Nanka Encounters or supporting sustainable initiatives with Intrepid Travel, I strive to spark meaningful conversations that result in tangible, positive change. I believe that communication has the power to inspire and impact others. Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work with different teams and lead initiatives that reflect my core values of people, planet, and purpose. My approach focuses on collaboration, innovation, and strategic storytelling to ensure that sustainability becomes a core focus in the tourism industry. Together, we can redefine travel such that it is about more than just seeing the world, but also improving it.
One of the projects closest to my heart, Ninki Nanka Encounters, aims to create enriching cultural experiences along The River Gambia, connecting travelers with local communities. This initiative is about more than just tourism; it’s about providing sustainable livelihoods for the people of the region while also encouraging cultural interchange.
Working with Intrepid Travel allowed me to align my professional values with an organisation that prioritises impact and using tourism as a force for good. I supported their efforts in implementing sustainable strategies, educating stakeholders on the importance of responsible tourism practices, and training staff members on what it means to be a responsible tourism business and what it entails for daily operations in all areas of the business. I also had the privilege of speaking for Intrepid Travel at major universities such as Leeds Beckett University and Surrey University, where I gave students an insight into sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
As an editorial contributor to Travindy, I played a role in shaping the conversation around responsible tourism. This platform focuses on sharing insights and news related to sustainability in travel, making it an invaluable resource for those committed to making a positive difference in the industry.
I am always eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations who share a vision for a more responsible, sustainable world. Let’s work together to turn ideas into action, using tourism as a tool for positive transformation.
My Mission
My mission is to lead the tourism and hospitality industry in making a positive contribution to society and the environment. The principle of People, Planet, and Profit serves as a powerful guiding framework to achieve this goal. I aim to provide clear sustainability frameworks that encourage businesses to consider their broader impact. The approach recognizes that true success is measured not only by financial performance but also by the well-being of people and the health of the planet. I am dedicated to:
Environmental Stewardship: Promoting conservation efforts, reducing our carbon footprint, and ensuring the protection of natural habitats and biodiversity.
Community Engagement: Empowering local communities through fair economic opportunities, respectful collaboration, and investment in social infrastructure.
Cultural Respect and Preservation: Celebrating and safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting authentic experiences, and encouraging cultural exchange and understanding.
Education and Awareness: Raising awareness among travelers, partners, and stakeholders about the importance of sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices.
Continuous Improvement: Committing to ongoing assessment, innovation, and adaptation of sustainable practices to meet the evolving needs of our planet and its inhabitants.
My Vision
My vision is to create a world where tourism is a force for good. I want to create a tourism industry that thrives on responsible practices, ensuring that travel enriches lives while preserving the natural and cultural treasures of our world.
I envision a future where, environmental stewardship is paramount, where communities thrive through tourism, where economic practices are equitable and sustainable and where travelers are informed and travel responsibly.
By championing sustainable and responsible tourism practices, I aim to inspire a global acknowledgment where travel not only enriches our lives but also supports the health of our planet and the prosperity of its people. Together, we can create a tourism industry that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.
I am convinced that together, we can ensure that tourism becomes a positive force for change.