As we approach 2026, the travel landscape is set for evolution through innovative trends and influential leaders shaping the industry. This article highlights three individuals poised to drive change:

Three Leaders to Watch in 2026

1. Beatrice Leong - A passionate advocate for gender equality and accessibility in travel, Leong stresses the need for inclusivity in the hospitality sector.

   • “Activist is just a fancy word for people who like to scold governments.”

   Translation: Activist is a term describing those who push for accountability from authorities.

2. Miguel Cabel Moreno - Recognized for his contributions to culinary heritage in the Philippines, Moreno continues to champion the cuisine from Southern Mindanao.

   • “I used to tell potential diners: ‘Look, Mindanao food is Filipino food. It’s as good as the usual Filipino flair that you enjoy.’”

   Translation: He advocates for the recognition of Mindanao’s rich culinary offerings as integral to Filipino cuisine.

3. Dr. Bona Nahyun Lee - A tech evangelist focusing on how modern technology can enhance efficiency in the MICE sector, promoting tools that simplify event planning.

   • “AI takes a lot of stress out of the equation, allowing professionals to design events with minimal input.”

   Translation: Artificial intelligence significantly eases the burden of planning and executing events.

Emerging Trends for 2026

• Regenerative Tourism: Transforming areas with troubled pasts into thriving cultural hubs.
• Immersive Learning Experiences: Providing exposure for students to real-world situations in travel and tourism.
• Reevaluation of MICE: Embracing technology and interactive experiences in meetings and events.

In conclusion, 2026 brings forth profound opportunities for innovation in travel and the emergence of leaders advocating for social change.