The Responsible Tourism Development Academy (RTDA)
An initiative of the World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage (WTACH), RTDA offers training to foster responsible leadership in tourism.
With sustainability essential in today’s business world, the academy provides certified courses and workshops aimed at instilling purpose-driven leadership. Programs can be customized for various organizations and include both in-person and online formats.
Featured Online Certified Courses:
- Introduction to Responsible Tourism Development
Facilitator: Dr. Scott Smith, Ph.D. (TRM)
This course emphasizes how tourism can create value for businesses and communities while respecting the planet. - Introduction to Leadership & Management Development
Facilitator: Phil Hook
A practical approach for developing emerging leaders with essential tools and emotional intelligence. - Introduction to Culture and Heritage Tourism Development
Facilitator: Nigel Fell
Explore the connection between culture, identity, and tourism engagement. - Introduction to Culture and Heritage Tour Guiding
Facilitator: Erina Loo
A program designed to enhance guides’ storytelling skills and cultural representation.
Customizable Capacity-Building for Real Impact
RTDA’s modular format allows for tailored training ranging from short tutorials to extensive workshops, promoting personal and organizational growth.
Shaping Tourism’s Future
As tourism evolves towards sustainability, RTDA is dedicated to nurturing future leaders who view travel as a means for positive change, fostering community wellness and environmental stewardship.
Scott Michael, a certified facilitator for multiple programs, underscores the importance of responsible tourism, emphasizing the need for professionals to be equipped with the right mindset and tools to enact meaningful change.
“Responsible tourism isn’t just about reducing harm—it’s about building something better,” says Dr. Smith. “These programs provide the necessary tools and motivation to achieve just that.”
About WTACH
The World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage (WTACH) is a nonprofit based in Sydney, advocating for the preservation of cultural heritage through sustainable tourism practices.
