Why Sponsor Go International?

As a sponsor of the 9th Annual Go International, you will have the opportunity to promote your organization throughout the event.  Your organization will also be featured on the AIANTA.org website and all AIANTA social media platforms leading up to and throughout the event. You will also be allowed to provide brochures for placement in our attendee conference bags, along with signage throughout the conference venue. Please visit the Go International Sponsor page for more information.

Go International Agenda

Speakers:
Tara Saunders, Business Development Director at Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
Ciarra Greene, Education and Business Development Director at American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association

Kick off your Go International Training Workshop journey with an in-depth session designed to evaluate and strengthen your business’s readiness for the global marketplace. Using AIANTA’s Travel Trade Manual and ITAC’s Market Readiness Self-Assessment, we’ll guide attendees through a thorough checklist, covering critical areas such as operations, legal compliance, pricing structures, visitor amenities, and multilingual marketing. This session will help tribal tourism professionals pinpoint their current standing, set clear priorities, and build a practical path forward for successfully attracting and engaging international travelers.

10:30 AM – 11:45 AM        Session to be announced soon!

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM            Building Successful Partnerships: DMOs and Intertribal Collaborations in Tourism

Speaker: Florian Herrmann, CEO/Founder, Herrmann Global

Delve into the operational mechanics of successful partnerships between Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and Intertribal entities in this technical session focused on tourism strategy and sustainable outcomes. We’ll examine frameworks and methodologies that drive collaborative efforts in marketing, analyzing models that align cultural authenticity with tourism objectives. Through detailed case studies and discussions on best practices, participants will gain a toolkit of actionable insights and a road map for establishing partnerships that uphold cultural integrity, enhance visitor engagement, marketing support, and Indigenous community development.

2:45 PM – 4:00 PM             Elevating Your Product: Proven Tactics for Gaining Industry Visibility

Speakers:
Misty Tarbell, Akwesasne Travel
Lorelei Clinton, Black Streak Canyon Tours

Expand your global presence with practical strategies designed to connect Indigenous tourism offerings to international markets. This session delves into effective use of digital assets, the impact of familiarization (FAM) tours, and the value of participation in key travel tradeshows. Gain insights into operational models, best practices, and innovative approaches to elevate Indigenous tourism on a global stage.

9:00 AM – 10:15 AM        From Media Kits to Social Media: Building a Professional and Engaging Presence

Speakers:
Lara Brockway, Social Media Manager at Visit Albuquerque
Brenna Moore, Director of Communications and Public Relations at Visit Albuquerque

Learn how to ensure quality representation for your organization by refining your communication strategies, strengthening your online presence, and simplifying the ease of doing business. This session will provide a comprehensive guide to crafting essential media tools like media kits, press releases, and boilerplates. Participants will explore the importance of investing in visibility, leveraging social media effectively, and creating seamless contact points for stronger engagement with audiences and partners.

10:30 AM – 11:45 AM        Building Global Connections: Leveraging Industry Partnerships for International Success     

Speakers:
Julie Heizer, Ambassador of International Inbound Travel Association
Sherry Rupert, CEO of American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association

Unlock global opportunities by leveraging key industry players like receptive tour operators, travel agents, OTAs, and AIANTA partners—the National Tour Association (NTA) and the International Inbound Travel Association (IITA). Learn how these networks support Indigenous tourism businesses in reaching international markets. AIANTA members gain exclusive benefits and resources to navigate the global tourism landscape effectively. Join us to explore strategies for expanding your business and connecting with international travelers.

11:45 AM – 1:15 PM              Lunch                               

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM              Respectful Representation: Telling Indigenous Stories Internationally

Speakers:
Christoper Delgado, Manager of Indigenous Training and Outreach at Alaska Native Heritage Center
Deannethea Long, Director of Operations at Moenkopi Developers Corporation

In the global tourism marketplace, Indigenous communities have a unique opportunity to showcase their rich heritage and traditions while educating travelers about the significance of cultural preservation. This session explores how to preserve and present authentic Indigenous stories in international tourism, ensuring respectful representation and alignment with cultural protocols. Attendees will learn how to craft narratives that resonate with diverse global audiences while maintaining the integrity of their traditions, creating meaningful connections that foster appreciation and understanding.

2:45 PM – 4:00 PM            Leveraging AIANTA Resources: Crafting Your Annual Plan for International Visitation and Export

Speakers: AIANTA Staff

AIANTA offers the tools and resources to help you grow your tourism business and attract international visitors. Learn how to develop an annual calendar of events and efforts that will elevate your presence in the global tourism market. This session will guide you through creating an actionable plan to connect with international travelers, get your listing on NativeAmerica.Travel, and leverage AIANTA’s support to increase your visibility.

4:15 p.m.
Closing

AIANTA Travel Trade Manual