‘Make no mistake, DEI is under attack right now’

There’s no question about it – diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, is under attack right now. The toxic rhetoric of our times is alarming and depressing, as is seeing progress being wound back around the world.

We can sometimes feel powerless against this backdrop, but after more than 25 years striving for gender equality, I know there are positive, practical steps we can take to double down on our efforts to create a more inclusive society.

However, while travel and tourism is one of our more diverse industries, we must acknowledge significant barriers still exist. About 55% of our entry-level workforce is female, but that drops away dramatically as the ladder climbs.

Women in Travel CIC’s Male Allyship Network was established four years ago with a mission to involve everyone in the conversation around gender empowerment.

The programme pairs women from all backgrounds and intersectionality with a senior male ally – like Adolfo (below) – from outside their organisation, and provides a structured environment to discuss career development, evaluate workplace situations or explore opportunities to scale up small businesses.

Another striking benefit is how these allies learn and grow just as much as they open up to different perspectives and ideas.

Complex issues, often societally ingrained, require everyone’s engagement to be resolved – and now more than ever, we need men to be visible, intentional allies helping to drive meaningful change.

Alessandra LoTufo Alonso, founder and managing director, Women in Travel CIC.

‘Allyship is a two-way learning experience’

Joining Women in Travel’s Male Allyship Network was a no-brainer for me. On both a personal and corporate level, I want to be involved in initiatives that elevate under-represented voices, and support our business’ wider DEI objectives. I recognise the part I can play as a white man in a leadership position.

The network provides a framework to support wider career development, nurture talent and entrepreneurship, and create more inclusivity across the industry. It has also been a fantastic experience for me.

Firstly, the matching process is second to none, and I have always clicked with my mentee. A lot of careful thought goes into pairing the mentee with the right ally, someone who is well-placed to support their specific objectives so you both know from the get-go what you want to achieve together.

There are some recurring themes – helping to grow confidence comes up frequently. And while the circumstances differ, from navigating a new managerial position to negotiating a salary increase, the approach you take will be tailored to the individual.

You can also draw on the resources and training Women in Travel provides, as well as your own experiences and those of other allies, who are always willing to share ideas.

The network is a two-way learning experience, and it feels good to give something back. At this critical moment for DEI, reinforcing our commitments to creating a more equal world remains an integral part of Intrepid Travel’s strategy and DNA.

Adolfo Penzato, head of people EMEA, Intrepid Travel.