Dietlind von Lassberg, formerly the managing director and now the deputy chair of the Studienkreis fur Tourismus und Entwicklung e.V., is among ten women to have been honoured with the recently established Celebrating Her award. This international award is a joint initiative of the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT), the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and ITB Berlin. The Global Award for Empowered Women in Tourism recognises women who have made an important contribution towards developing international tourism.
In his congratulatory speech Ajay Prakash, president of IIPT India, said: ”IIPT can absolutely approve as Dietlind von Lassberg herself said in her own words, that we are profoundly convinced that the future of tourism will also depend on its ability to develop in an environmentally and socially responsible way, meaning: in a sustainable way.”
According to the award’s sponsors women are key players in global tourism too. They create and develop tourism products, shape tourism destinations and play a model role in peace initiatives and sustainable tourism. The award winners are shining examples of the tireless work and valuable contribution of women in developing one of fastest-growing sectors of the economy. The IIPT honoured Dietlind von Lassberg for her untiring efforts towards creating an understanding of tourism as an encounter without prejudices, an intercultural dialogue and one of mutual respect.
Dietlind von Lassberg said: “The best prizes are those that come out of the blue. I accept the award on behalf of all my study group colleagues. Together, and for many years, we have campaigned for even more environmentally and socially responsible, i.e. sustainable forms of tourism.”
The award, which carries no prize money, is presented annually at the ITB Berlin Convention.
