by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:20 AM ET, Mon August 31, 2026
Non-profit travel organization Tourism Cares, creator of the Meaningful Travel Map, which provides travelers access to community-centric and sustainable travel and tour companies, attractions and experiences around the world, has announced that its CEO, Greg Takehara, has stepped down.
Takehara has led the organization since 2019, before serving on the Tourism Cares Board of Directors. His farewell message did not say what he plans to do next or why he is stepping down as CEO, but it expressed goodwill toward the organization and its efforts to support community tourism worldwide.
"Tourism Cares has been part of my life for more than two decades, first as a volunteer and Board member, then Board Chair and ultimately CEO,” said Takehara in an official statement. “Through every chapter, I have believed deeply in the same thing: that travel has an incredible ability, and a responsibility, to be a force for good in the world.
“What I am most proud of is not any one program, partnership, or accomplishment, but the community we have built around that belief,” continued Takehara. “I have had the privilege of working alongside an extraordinary team, members, partners and communities around the world who have challenged us, trusted us, and pushed us to think bigger about what our industry can and should be.
“Tourism Cares' strength has always come from bringing people together, listening to voices that need to be part of the conversation, and giving people the platform and space to turn ideas into action. As I step away, I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and look forward to seeing what this team and community will build next. There is still so much work to do, and while my role may be changing, I will always be a cheerleader for Tourism Cares and for this community,” Takehara concluded.
Malia Asfour will replace him as interim CEO until Tourism Cares finds a full-time CEO. She’s previously served in Tourism Cares’ leadership and governance, is the co-founder of Imagine It Tourism Group and was the Director of the Jordan Tourism Board North America.
"l am honored to serve as interim CEO during this important time for Tourism Cares," said Asfour. "l wish Greg all the best and I know he will continue to inspire us and be a leader in the industry. As I work to support a smooth transition, I will also be looking for ways to continue to strengthen the programs and partnerships that connect our industry with communities around the world."
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