The Mediterranean Tourism Foundation has honoured Maribel Rodríguez (Spain), president of Women Leading Tourism (WLT), with the Efforts in Gender Equality Award as part of the Mediterranean Tourism Awards 2025.
The Mediterranean Tourism Awards are a regional recognition programme created in 2014 to highlight the most notable achievements within the Mediterranean tourism sector. These awards recognise work in areas such as innovation, sustainability, creativity and leadership, reflecting the priorities considered essential for the long-term development of the region.
The programme recognises individuals, cities, institutions and organisations whose initiatives contribute positively to tourism, the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, responsible environmental management and social impact in the Mediterranean.
In this edition, the Foundation has highlighted Maribel Rodríguez’s career for her contribution to the visibility, empowerment and leadership of women in the global tourism industry, as well as for her role in promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors in favour of more inclusive and sustainable tourism.
The WLT chairwoman has been recognised for her tireless work in promoting equal opportunities, encouraging female representation in decision-making and creating international support networks among women leaders in tourism.
“I accept this award with enormous gratitude and share it with all the women and men who every day drive change towards a more equitable and diverse tourism industry. Equality is not only a matter of balance and social justice, but also an essential condition for the sustainability of tourism and economic impact on businesses.”, said Maribel Rodríguez during the ceremony held in Valletta.
The Foundation also recognised Spanish entrepreneur Kike Sarasola with the Excellence in Product Development award for redefining boutique hotels through innovation, creativity and design focused on the customer experience.
About WOMEN LEADING TOURISM
Since its founding in December 2020, Women Leading Tourism has launched several initiatives to promote an inclusive, competitive and sustainable travel and tourism sector, where female leadership is better represented. WLT promotes the adoption of policies that improve women’s access to quality jobs, facilitate training, reduce wage inequality and break the glass ceiling in senior positions.
Source: HOPSCOTCH TOURISM