Asunción, Agencia IP.- The role of women in the development of the tourism sector and in building more equitable societies was the central theme of the International Workshop «A Feminine Future: Building the Tourism of Tomorrow,» which brought together some 400 women entrepreneurs and students at the CONMEBOL Convention Center.
The event was organized by UN Tourism and the National Tourism Secretariat (SENATUR), within the framework of the 71st session of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Americas (CAM), and established itself as a space for dialogue, training, and the exchange of experiences on female leadership in the tourism industry.
It was opened by the Minister of Tourism, Jacinto Santa María, and the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Shaikha Alnuwais. During his address, the head of Senatur highlighted the role of women as key players in tourism development, emphasizing their entrepreneurial spirit, their contribution to job creation, and their role as guardians of multiculturalism and agents of transformation in their communities.
The high-level panel, titled «Women’s Future,» was moderated by Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism, and Yanina Martínez, President of FEMTUR Argentina. The panel included prominent international figures such as María Paz Lagos, Undersecretary of Tourism of Chile; Glenys Hanna-Martin, Minister of Tourism, Investment, and Aviation of the Bahamas; and Giselle Burbano, UNESCO Regional Specialist, who shared experiences and insights on women’s leadership and innovation in tourism.
The day continued with a series of capacity-building workshops. The first, titled «The Luxury of Authenticity,» was led by businesswoman Rossana Fustagno, who addressed the transformation of cultural identity into high-value tourism products with international appeal.
Later, the workshop «Digital DNA: Technological Tools» was held, featuring a representative from Amadeus, a leading technology company in the tourism sector, and a special presentation by Gilberto Salcedo from Colombia. The workshop analyzed the use of data and technology to position local tourism businesses in the global market.
Finally, the workshop «The Leader Within,» led by Yanina Martínez, offered a practical approach to leadership, public speaking, and impactful techniques aimed at strengthening participants’ personal and professional skills.
The event reaffirmed the importance of female leadership as a driving force for innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development in regional tourism.