Welcome to the Regenerative Travel Impact Awards, where we proudly introduce the “Regenerative Storyteller of the Year.” In a world where stories have the power to shape perceptions, kindle emotions, and ignite revolutions, we stand here today to honor an exceptional individual who has harnessed the magic of storytelling to weave narratives that transcend mere words.
The convergence of cultures, environments, and perspectives has never been more evident, the Storyteller of the Year stands for clarity and progress. This visionary individual has skillfully harnessed the universal language of storytelling to shed light on the pressing challenges we face and to emphasize the role that regenerative travel plays in addressing these challenges. Through their words, they have connected hearts and minds, fostering a collective consciousness that transcends boundaries and unites us all in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
Regenerative Travel Impact Awards serve as a guide of recognition for those whose endeavors echo the essence of regeneration. We are not just celebrating journeys taken, but the journeys that inspire a greater purpose. It is in this spirit that we acknowledge the contributions of a remarkable individual, a passionate storyteller whose narratives possess the transformative ability to bridge gaps, incite empathy, and catalyze social and environmental change.
View the winner & finalists:
Winner
GLP Films – USA
For over 15 years, GLP Films (GLP) has harnessed the storytelling potential of video to advance the sustainability, regenerative, and stewardship goals of destinations. Their mission revolves around using the art of storytelling and content marketing to support destinations in achieving sustainability goals that protect nature, communities, and culture. GLP’s Founder and Chief Strategist, Rob Holmes, underscored the company’s recommitment to sustainability and its role in aiding the industry’s recovery and growth.
GLP’s global campaigns also exemplify its commitment to sustainability. Collaborations with destinations like Visit Sedona and the Azores have showcased responsible travel practices and positioned the Azores as a premier sustainable and regenerative European travel destination. By highlighting local champions, GLP Films captures the resilient spirit and commitment of communities working towards a more sustainable future. Through video storytelling, GLP Films continues to shape a more sustainable and resilient future for the tourism industry.
Finalists
The Centre for GOOD Travel – New Zealand
The Centre for GOOD Travel, formerly known as GOOD Travel, has transitioned over the past year into an entity dedicated to driving a regenerative approach to tourism. With a decade of experience as an award-winning social enterprise focused on sustainable and responsible travel, this transformation was sparked by a deep and reflective process. The “GOOD Awaits – The Regenerative Tourism New Zealand” podcast serves as a dynamic platform for collective exploration of regenerative tourism practices in Aotearoa New Zealand and worldwide. Launched in 2021 and hosted by Debbie Clarke and Josie Major, the podcast has evolved into a recognized storytelling medium that showcases regenerative tourism, challenges conventional tourism paradigms, and amplifies narratives of active hope to craft a fresh visitor sector narrative.
The podcast addresses the growing call for regenerative approaches to tourism in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and amid escalating climate impacts. Through candid conversations with regenerative tourism pioneers and practitioners, including operators, storytellers, and cross-sectoral regenerative experts, GOOD Awaits provides insights into tangible examples of regenerative practices in action. Recognizing the demand for practical insights into transformative tourism practices, the podcast spotlights businesses engaging in regenerative practices while exploring tourism’s potential, purpose, and influence. Utilizing podcasts as an accessible and transformative medium, hosts Debbie and Josie wield their role as storytellers to inspire mindset shifts and foster active hope within the tourism industry.
Mary Holland – USA
Mary Holland possesses a wealth of experience spanning more than a decade as a distinguished writer and editor. She initially served as the online editor for GQ and Glamour South Africa, honing her craft before embarking on a remarkable journey. Now based in New York, Mary has flourished as a freelance writer and correspondent for Monocle. Her remarkable portfolio includes prestigious publications like The Financial Times, WSJ. Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, Travel + Leisure, Robb Report, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, and many others.
Mary’s recent body of work underscores her unwavering commitment to immersive travel journalism. Her quests have led her to extraordinary terrains. In one adventure, she trekked through the enigmatic Hidden Himalayas, chronicling her experience hiking along the Trans-Bhutan Trail for an enlightening piece in The Financial Times. Furthermore, Mary’s curiosity led her to uncover the visionary strides of seven exceptional hotels pioneering responsible travel for Condé Nast Traveler. Through her narratives, she captured their innovative initiatives—ranging from off-the-grid guest rooms to endeavors supporting local communities with affordable housing. These establishments are shaping a new benchmark in the realm of sustainable hospitality, and Mary’s work celebrates their transformative efforts.
Travis Levius – USA
Meet Travis Levius, a London-based travel writer and one of the esteemed founding members of the Black Travel Alliance. Established in 2020, the Black Travel Alliance is a distinguished non-profit organization operating under 501(c)(3) status. Its mission is to foster, educate, empower, and elevate Black travel professionals across the realms of education, media, and corporate arenas. As a recognized pillar within the travel industry, the Black Travel Alliance holds a unique position of trust. This organization serves as the bridge that directly links brands with Black travel media, while also conducting and disseminating research that offers valuable insights and analysis on Black travelers and the state of the travel industry concerning Black professionals.
Embracing three core pillars—Alliance, Amplification, and Accountability—the Black Travel Alliance unites individuals who passionately contribute to the world of travel. Among these dedicated professionals is Travis Levius, a versatile freelance travel writer and content creator who divides his time between London and Atlanta. Travis boasts an illustrious portfolio, gracing the pages of prestigious publications such as Travel + Leisure, TIME, Condé Nast Traveler, Departures, CNN Travel, AFAR, and Forbes Travel Guide. Beyond his journalistic prowess, Travis also holds the esteemed title of author for Lonely Planet’s guidebook “Experiences: London” (2022). His visionary leadership extends to Pandemic-Proof Travel Writing, an innovative on-demand workshop that empowers both budding and established writers to expand their reach and income during the unpredictable era of COVID-19.
The Food Principle – USA
The PBS docuseries, “The Food Principle” employs the lens of food to delve into global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, health, social justice, and inclusion, offering relatable insights and actionable solutions. “The Food Principle” ingeniously transforms complex global issues into tangible concepts through the universal medium of food. By adopting food as a guide, the series effectively bridges the gap between daunting subjects and practical change. The show embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion both on and off camera. Each episode features a director or director of photography native to the region being explored, amplifying local voices and perspectives. The guest lineup reflects the dynamic tapestry of our world, featuring indigenous land stewards, renowned chefs, farmers, social entrepreneurs, and more.
The inaugural season of “The Food Principle” delves into food’s roles in healing, roots resurgence, and social consciousness. Looking ahead, the series will spotlight how food revitalizes urban areas, explore regenerative farming on land and water, showcase rewilding’s connection to nature and self, and illuminate how food aids in the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. With its tagline, “Together, let’s plant a better planet,” the show embodies a regenerative spirit that empowers viewers to effect change. Its inaugural season stands as an inspiring, inclusive, empathetic, and empowering approach to food travel TV.
