Intrepid, MDF and SLTDA, holds Sri Lanka’s first-ever ‘Women in Tourism’ training session

Participants, along with the Intrepid Colombo team, at the 

training session

Intrepid Country GM – Sri Lanka Poornaka Delpachitra giving  a speech

In celebration of World Tourism Day, Intrepid Colombo recently announced the successful launch of its first-ever ‘Women in Tourism’ training session, held on Saturday, 14 September, in Kandy.

This trailblazing initiative, in partnership with the Market Development Facility (MDF), an Australian Government-funded program that promotes sustainable economic development across diverse sectors, along with the full endorsement of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), aims to promote gender equality and empower women in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.

The inaugural session brought together 11 aspiring women out of 45 applicants hailing from various backgrounds from the Central Province who would want to pursue a career as a tour guide. The workshop provided them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to enter and excel in the tourism sector. 

“This program is truly life changing. I am thankful to Intrepid for this opportunity to meet fellow aspiring female leaders sharing the same passion and interest,” shared one participant. “It is not just about learning to become a tour leader; it is about building our confidence and overcoming the social barriers that have held us back. I now believe I can be a role model for other women in my community.”

With a drive to inspire and uplift more women from diverse regions, the training sessions will soon be expanded to other provinces across Sri Lanka. By the end of the program, 10 of the most promising participants from across the country will be selected and awarded a scholarship to complete their National Tour Guide Licence, upon the completion of which they will onboard Intrepid’s elite group of tour leaders, offering them a unique opportunity to shine on the global stage.

“Our vision is to create an inclusive tourism industry where women play a leading role,” said Intrepid Country General Manager – Sri Lanka Poornaka Delpachitra. “We believe that empowering women in tourism not only contributes to their personal and professional development, but also enhances the overall travel experience by offering diverse perspectives to travellers. Together, we are ambitious to see this program go across the island, and to make a real impact on communities across the country and increase the percentage of overall female participation in the tourism industry in Sri Lanka.” MDF Country Director – Sri Lanka Maryam Piracha stated: “The partnership between Intrepid Sri Lanka and Australia’s MDF is pioneering new business opportunities centred around women-led travel and inclusive value chains in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, with regional support from Provincial Councils. Encouraging more women to participate in the tourism sector is crucial to addressing labour shortages and unlocking inclusive growth opportunities. The MDF is thrilled to see the participation and reception of the initial workshop in the Central Province for aspiring women tour leaders, and look forward to our continued collaboration with Intrepid across the other planned provinces.”

SLTDA Chairman Priantha Fernando emphasised the importance of this program, stating: “Programs like these are crucial for addressing the gaps in women’s participation in tour guiding, providing much-needed opportunities to upskill and empower women in the tourism sector. Such efforts will undoubtedly create ripple effects, empowering women while raising awareness of the valuable role they play in the tourism industry, benefitting entire communities.”

With Sri Lanka’s tourism industry poised for exponential growth, the women’s role will be key to shaping its future, who currently represent less than a mere 10% of the industry, with a recent study uncovering only 3% are registered as licenced female tour guides. Initiatives such as ‘Women in Tourism’ are integral to ensure its growth is both inclusive and sustainable by actively promoting female participation in the sector. 

This effort underpins Intrepid Colombo’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, providing opportunities for women to break through barriers and take on leadership roles.