This year's International Women’s Day theme is "Accelerate Action."
The campaign implies that if progress continues at its current pace, full gender parity won’t be achieved until the year 2158.
In other words, women will work hard for less for another five generations.
So, what steps is the tourism industry taking to Accelerate Action?
Elevating Women in Aviation
According to the Institute for Women of Aviation Worldwide (iWOAW), women represent 8.15% of pilots, 15% of air traffic controllers, and approximately 3% of those in aircraft maintenance.
Elevate Aviation and the Northern Lights Aero Foundation are working to rewrite that narrative.
Both organizations focus on mentorship - if you see a woman doing the job, you can envision yourself in the role.
Kendra Kincade, the founder of Elevate, is an air traffic controller who, through her own journey, found the motivation to launch an organization that provides women with the support they need to succeed. Elevate hosts a cross-country tour that visits cities across Canada, offering free events for girls at airports and military bases.
The Northern Lights Aero Foundation honours women who have made significant contributions to aviation and aerospace, also aiming to inspire the next generation.
Air Canada’s Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship alleviates financial barriers and encourages more women to take to the skies.
Zoey Williams, a Black female pilot with Air Canada, exemplifies the success such initiatives aim to achieve. Her journey from an aspiring aviator to a commercial pilot illustrates what happens when talent meets opportunity.
Trailblazing Tourism
Tourism has the power to significantly impact local women worldwide.
Tannis Dyrland's Tisson Travel Group, founded in 2023, curates travel experiences focused on women's safety and interests, with nine female-owned agencies in Alberta.
G Adventures supports female-led initiatives in 22 countries, offering employment, education, and leadership opportunities to combat gender inequality.
Insight Vacations has introduced 11 women-only tours created by women for women. These tours provide unique experiences that financially empower women in their destinations.
Airlines are also recognizing the importance of female leadership.
Porter Airline's "Women Soar at Porter" (WSP) program aims to position itself as "the airline of choice for women." Porter's female pilots represent almost 13% of its pilot population, putting it much higher than the industry average.
At a recent IWD panel discussion, Jacqui McGillivray, WestJet's Chief People Officer, shared that the airline is "committed to breaking down barriers and fostering an environment where women are empowered to excel.
"It's a collective responsibility to create an environment that nurtures women and champions their advancement."
The Kirtipur Community Homestay is led by Indigenous women in Nepal. (Photo Credit: G Adventures)
Flying Solo
According to recent reports, women are travelling more and reshaping the industry with their preferences and priorities.
Solo female travel is on the rise, with a 45% increase in Canadian women travelling alone over the past five years, according to Skyscanner Canada.
But, when women travel alone, they must prioritize safety.
A staggering 72% of Canadian women express worries about security, which has led to an increase in women-only tours and female-led travel experiences.
While progress has been made, the journey is far from over.
In the words of Amelia Earhart, "Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others.
"The most effective way to do it, is to do it."
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