We’re thrilled to announce that InterExchange, straight out of the Big Apple, was honored with the Global Youth Travel Award in the Best Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative category. The WYSE Travel Confederation presented this recognition to us at the World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday, 15th September 2023. This award follows a win in 2022 in the category of Notable Innovation, which recognized InterExchange for developing an innovative product or service that was new to the youth and student travel industry.
But what does this award truly represent? The Best DEI Initiative Award highlights our organization’s efforts to take tangible steps toward creating a more inclusive workplace and, ultimately, the travel and tourism landscape. Our efforts have included launching our DEI Committee to design training and workshops for staff, setting up training programs to address unconscious biases, and revising hiring and promotional practices to foster a more inclusive environment.
We’ve always believed that the world becomes a better place when we understand, embrace, and celebrate our differences. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion isn’t just about checking a box; it reflects our core beliefs as a sponsor of cultural exchange programs. Winning this award reaffirms our dedication to creating opportunities for everyone, irrespective of their background, to experience the transformative power of cultural exchange.
So, whether you’re an international student seeking fresh horizons or an American traveler wanting to understand the world a bit better, know that you’re joining a community that champions diversity every step of the way. We’re thankful to all of our supporters who voted for us in both of these categories.
Let’s keep exploring, understanding, and learning together!
