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The Value of Indigenous Tourism
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Indigenous Ambassador
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Learning Hub
What is the ITTI Program?
The Indigenous Tourism Training Initiative (ITTI) empowers Indigenous tourism workers, businesses, and communities across British Columbia. We offer a diverse range of free, culturally centred workshops, professional certifications, post-secondary diplomas, and work placement programs—all designed to help you or your team members thrive. ITTI provides the skills and knowledge needed to create authentic, sustainable tourism experiences that honour our legacy and drive economic success.
Our Commitment
At Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC), training is at the heart of our Mission. We are deeply committed to building capacity within Indigenous communities, ensuring you have the tools and resources to lead in the tourism industry. Through initiatives like the ITTI, we foster growth and leadership, empowering you to shape a vibrant Indigenous tourism sector that benefits everyone.
Empowering Indigenous People to Take the Lead
These courses empower Indigenous people to step into leadership roles by providing more than just knowledge—they offer practical tools and real-world experience that build confidence and capability. Hands-on training and immersive learning help individuals master new skills and apply them in ways that drive meaningful change within their communities. Each course fosters a mindset of continuous growth, encouraging individuals to take initiative, embrace challenges, and lead with vision and integrity. By investing in these training opportunities, individuals are not just learning—they’re shaping the future of Indigenous tourism.
Featured ITBC Workshops
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) has developed signature workshops over the years, each tailored to empower Indigenous tourism professionals and enrich visitor experiences.
Key Training Areas
Our comprehensive training opportunities equip Indigenous tourism professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in every aspect of the industry. From cultural tourism and sustainability to marketing, sales, leadership and business development training, we partner with industry experts to cover all the essential areas that drive success and foster growth within Indigenous communities. We also offer in-house ITBC workshops led by our team. Each course will empower you with the tools to lead, innovate, and sustain a vibrant and authentic Indigenous tourism sector.
Choose the Courses That Match Your Goals
If you don’t see what you’re looking for contact us at [email protected].
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Indigenous Cultural Tourism training equips you with the skills to authentically integrate Indigenous knowledge, values, and storytelling into your tourism experiences, fostering deeper connections between visitors and Indigenous cultures. Through workshops on Indigenous Ambassadorship, storytelling, community planning, and entrepreneurship, this training empowers you to enhance guest experiences while preserving cultural heritage and ensuring your community thrives and contributes to sustainable economic growth.
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Tourism Management training provides you with essential skills to develop your destination, experience or business. Courses include identifying ideal guests, designing memorable experiences, and optimizing operations. You’ll learn how to price strategically, package travel, refine visitor experiences, and leverage industry trends to drive business growth.
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Stewardship and Sustainability training helps you create environmentally responsible and culturally respectful tourism experiences. Through focused workshops, you’ll learn to integrate sustainable practices, regenerative tourism, and land stewardship into your business, ensuring long-term success while preserving natural and cultural resources for future generations.
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Cultural Awareness training gives you the tools to foster inclusivity, respect, and understanding in diverse environments. Workshops cover topics like cultural safety, anti-racism, and diversity (including 2SLGBTQI+) in the workplace, empowering you to navigate cultural differences, respond to racism, and support Truth & Reconciliation efforts. This training helps you build stronger, more inclusive communities by promoting equity, diversity, and respectful engagement with Indigenous cultures.
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Human Resources training equips you with the tools to create safe, inclusive, and supportive workplaces. Workshops cover key topics ideal for an employee onboarding program, new managers or staff-wide training. Learning about unconscious bias, employee engagement, mental health, and workplace safety helps foster a positive work environment that enhances employee well-being and retention. This training empowers you to build respectful, productive, and mentally healthy workplaces that drive success.
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Customer Service training prepares you to deliver exceptional and inclusive guest experiences. Workshops focus on service quality, handling demanding customers, and conflict resolution, ensuring you can manage challenging situations confidently and empathetically. This training empowers you to create positive, lasting impressions that enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
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Health & Safety training provides you with critical skills to maintain safe, secure, and healthy work environments. Workshops cover essential topics such as first aid, CPR, occupational health and safety, food safety and harm reduction, and ensuring preparedness for emergencies and everyday risks. This comprehensive training fosters a safety culture, protecting employees and guests while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
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Branding, Sales, and Marketing training gives you the tools to effectively promote your business and connect with target audiences. Workshops cover digital marketing, e-commerce setup, SEO, and social media strategies, ensuring you can build and amplify your brand. Ethical marketing courses teach responsible promotion that respects cultural values, while media relations training helps you manage public perception and foster positive media relationships.
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Business, Administrative, and Financial training provides you with essential skills to manage your operations efficiently and profitably. Workshops cover financial management, cost control, payroll forecasting, and bookkeeping, ensuring your business can optimize its finances. Specialized courses in grant writing, taxation, and creative financial management empower you to navigate the economic aspects of your business with confidence, whether you’re a sole proprietor or managing a larger corporation.
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Leadership and Personal Development training equip you with the skills to lead with confidence, integrity, and strategic vision. Workshops cover performance management, strategic thinking, and transformative leadership while offering specialized support for Indigenous women and emerging leaders. This training empowers you to align your leadership style with your values, fostering personal growth and driving meaningful change within your community and organization.