Northern BC is getting its very own Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist.
The new position is a partnership between the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association (NBCTA) and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC) to further expand the fast growing sector . BC’s Indigenous tourism sector generated approximately $705 million in gross direct output in 2017 and demand from Canadian and international visitors is high.
“Tourism is a valuable economic driver in our province, and Indigenous tourism experiences are in demand. As we look to further develop northern BC as a destination, it is important to ensure there is support for further developing Indigenous tourism experiences across the region,” says Clint Fraser, CEO of Northern British Columbia Tourism Association in a news release.
Lucy Martin, a member and past councillor of McLeod Lake Indian Band with experience in managing economic development, will take on the role.
Martin’s focus will be to engage Indigenous individuals, businesses and communities in formal tourism development planning, and link them with opportunities.
“I am passionate about working with Indigenous communities to assist them in projects that will develop capacity and benefit members,” says Martin.
Martin will be based at the Northern BC Tourism Association office in Prince George.