In 2021, WORTH Association brought together 50 industry professionals to work through a series of discussions on inclusion, rewards, advancement, retention, flexibility and fair treatment led by the Sociable Scientist. These discussions formed the basis of the first study of its kind in BC examining why women aren't dominating in a female-dominated industry and how we can work collectively to ensure more women take a seat, and remain, at the table. Click the link below to learn more and download your copy of the gender equity audit.

Sandy has made a name for herself in Vancouver’s prestigious dining industry, currently holding the role of Chef de Cuisine at Archer, which offers an elevated take on the diverse flavours of modern Canadian cuisine. Her experience in the kitchen runs deep, previously holding roles at Fairmont Pacific Rim, Torafuku, and Victor Steakhouse, to name a few. Working with a team of powerful women in the kitchen of Archer, Sandy knows the importance of powerful female chefs leading kitchens around the city. Keep reading to learn more about Sandy and her food ethos.

In the last two months, we have held two successful Empower Her events in Kelowna and Victoria. We were joined by women & men from across our industries to network, listen to panellists share their stories, and more. Click the link below to see more from the events and to save the date for our next Empower Her evenings in Vancouver & Whistler.

In the past, I have described WORTH’s advocacy work as “lonely.” The WORTH team has been on an uphill battle at times to gain funding, support and recognition for our volunteer efforts. To see the industry commit to diversity, equity and inclusion brings me hope. It is long overdue, but it is progress nonetheless. While the road ahead is long, we are in good company with some fine associations working alongside us.

Our advocacy committee has prepared a survey for those in our industries to help share their input on where our efforts are best focused. The results of this survey will help shape the resources and tools we provide to businesses in tourism, recreation, and hospitality. Click below to learn more and take the survey.

Intake for the 2023 WORTH Association Mentorship Program is now open! This program matches mentees with experienced leaders in the recreation, tourism and hospitality fields for a 6-month period beginning in January. Mentees will have the opportunity to engage with a positive role model, build leadership skills, and develop connections within the community in preparation for their next stage in the workforce.

Commitment to supporting Indigenous-owned businesses must go beyond September 30. We’ve compiled a list of Indigenous-owned businesses and tourism attractions in BC, a good place to start for those looking to support year-round.

Joining the Tourism Industry Association of Canada as its President and CEO in March 2021, Beth wasted no time bringing heightened awareness of the importance of tourism in Canada and working on the organization’s efforts to recover the industry from the impact of COVID-19. With experience in the tourism industry for over 25 years, Beth exemplifies what it means to be a Woman of WORTH and we were lucky enough to have her take time out of her busy schedule to tell us about her memorable career moments so far, her advice for other women in the industry, and more.

WORTH Association is pleased to welcome the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) into our Leadership Circle. This partnership demonstrates TIABC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate, educate and empower self-identifying women in our industry. In addition to joining the Leadership Circle, TIABC has signed on to be a key partner in WORTH’s mentorship program. Our mentorship circles have supported over 100 women and we look forward to significant expansion thanks to the support of TIABC and partners.

It’s time to dust off that suitcase, dig out that passport, and prepare for what might be your first international trip in two or more years.

The world has changed a bit since 2019, and for those fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants travellers, you’ll need to get more comfortable with more detailed travel planning – at least for now. Your next travel experience will be a lot smoother, and a lot less anxiety-inducing, if you follow these easy travel tips

The intersection of parenthood and career is a confusing place. To get you started on a successful talk with your employer, I’ve put together a list of essential questions so you can focus on the big changes to come while having peace of mind about work.

It is hard to believe, Candace Campo and her Indigenous Tourism company, Talaysay Tours hit a milestone of 20 years of operations in 2022. While Candace admits balancing personal life and work life is an ongoing challenge, she made time to sit down and speak with us about her career journey and advice for other women seeking leadership roles.

WORTH is a small grassroots association, but our growth and achievements are worth bragging about. As we approach our fourth birthday, instead of trying to do it ourselves like a stubborn, pig-tailed, wild child, we are asking for help. We are welcoming our first Leadership Circle Member, Accent Inns & Hotel Zed as a proud Champion Sponsor of our efforts.

The first thing you need to know about Mandy is that she LEADS WITH LOVE. Accent Inns recently shared this love, with a generous $5,000 donation to be WORTH Association’s first Champion Sponsor. We connected with Mandy Farmer, CEO of Accent Inns and Hotel Zed, on what inspired the donation and her own inspiring career journey.

Tj, your friendly neighbourhood 2SLGBTQIA+ focused EDI practitioner here. I’m going to stay in my lane, and share with you 3 key ways you can improve the workplace and consumer experiences for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks in the tourism and hospitality industries. This is about demonstrating allyship, workplace inclusion and reaching and welcoming the 2SLGBTQIA+ market.

Alana Dickson is a familiar name to many in BC’s hospitality sector through her role as Executive Director of the BC Hospitality Foundation. We sat down with this powerful marketing leader to understand her journey, advice for up-and-coming leaders and what lies ahead for BC Hospitality Foundation.

Congratulations, you got the interview! Next up is your meeting with me: the Hiring Manager. Interviewing is a skill and takes years of practice. Rather than learning from your mistakes, learn from the mistakes of others. Avoid these seven sins to help you stand out in your next interview.

We were welcomed at the BC Tourism and Hospitality Conference, with the intention to continue the dialogue that occurred at Seat At The Table with 50 industry leaders. We presented the dynamic results of the study by sharing recommendations related to balance, flexibility, benefits, inclusion, learning, and safe workplaces.

March marked Women’s history month and International Women's Day. How did your organizations deliver? Were you asked to stand for a photo in the lobby for social media? I would go out on a limb and say whatever took place, it was likely organized by women and made zero impact towards gender equity.

Did you catch WORTH’s viral moment a few weeks back? Our talented communications team posted a statement in an Instagram story that got a LOT of attention. In simple white writing, the post said “Put the salary in the job description” … 13 times in a row for effect. It is evident from the reactions by some there is still a lot of conversation (and internal barriers to overcome) to have salary transparency.