In this episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast, host Stephanie M. Jones is joined by Rika Jean Francois, the former Commissioner of ITB Corporate Social Responsibility at Messe Berlin. They discuss Rika's extensive background in travel and tourism, her leadership in incorporating sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusivity into the world's largest travel trade show, ITB.

The conversation delves into the principles of CSR, ESG, and DEI, and how they are applied at ITB, challenges faced, and the importance of addressing controversial issues like human rights and inclusivity in tourism. Rika also shares advice for organizing responsible trade shows and her future plans with her new ventures, Mission Respo and Queer Destinations.

00:00 Introduction to the Necessary Disruptor Podcast

00:53 Global Standards in CSR, ESG, and DEI

01:33 Meet Rika Jean Francois: Visionary Leader in Travel Trade Shows

02:32 Rika's Journey and Insights on Responsible Tourism

06:01 Challenges and Strategies in Sustainable Tourism

11:30 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at ITB

20:39 Supporting Small and Diverse Suppliers

32:18 Future Directions and New Ventures

35:44 Conclusion and Call to Action

Connect with Rika:

Website: www.queerdestinations.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rika-jean-francois-4a335029