We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, slapping a rainbow on something does not cut it. No rainbow-washing, no lip service. The people creating the story need to be from the community.
Taking to the PROUD Experiences’ stage in New York City, Aisha Shaibu, Romey Louangvilay, Francesco Galli Zugaro and Paul Gauger explore LGBTQ+ destinations with Sophie Griffiths.
Sophie Griffiths, TTG Media
Sophie looks after the TTG news team, which produces daily and weekly content for the magazine and website. Sophie is the founder of TTG LGBT – a network for LGBT people and their allies in the travel industry – that was launched in March 2015 and comprises regular evening events and an annual conference.
Aisha Shaibu, When Night Falls
Aisha is an LGBTQ+ advocate, event organiser and founder of the start-up company ‘When Night Falls In London’. Aisha has created an alternative and new way to tour London by providing authentic and safe experiences for travellers to explore London’s queer culture at night.
Romey Louangvilay, ELMNTL (Elemental)
As a gay Asian man who works in the tourism marketing industry and loves to travel himself, Romey’s goal is to make travel more inclusive for everyone. A finalist in Forbes’ Top 30 Under 30 in Marketing & Advertising, Romey is head of communications at ELMNTL.
Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions
As the pioneer of luxury small boat river cruises, Francesco has turned Aqua Expeditions into a global brand known for its trailblazing, award-winning ship designs that go hand-in-hand with cuisine by renowned chefs and personalised hospitality and adventure in the world’s most spectacular locations.
Paul Gauger, VisitBritain
Paul joined VisitBritain in 2003 and has held many roles within the organization, most recently the Senior Vice President / Deputy Regional Director, The Americas. VisitBritain continues to celebrate equality and diversity with its Love is GREAT campaign, showcasing the UK as a welcoming destination.