Episode 260 - Special Episode: wmnsWORK Demo Day
In this special episode of Soul of Travel, we are thrilled to share the inspiring wmnsWORK Tourism Business Accelerator Cohort 7 Demo Day presentations.
Words of Wisdom
“Having women in power drives climate action, accelerates innovation, and builds a future that ensures we all thrive."
- IRIS SERBANESCU
wmnsWORK helps women and non-binary folks build thriving tourism businesses through education, mentorship and community.
wmnsWORK is an accelerator focused on women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs designed to help you get a leg up on your tourism business and rally a community while you build it. They do this through 3 main pillars: Education, Mentorship, and Community.
The goal of wmnsWORK is to flatten the learning curve when it comes to industry knowledge and entrepreneurship, helping you reach your goals faster and with more fun through 12 weeks of expert-led workshops, mentorship, and community.
Demo Day is your chance to learn more about what these inspiring wmnsWORK Cohort 6 grads have been up to. They've worked so hard to refine their pitches and business offerings, and are excited to share them with the tourism industry at large. Through each company's 5-minute pitch, you'll get a glimpse of their passion and dedication as they unveil their unique ventures to fellow members of the tourism industry, and learn how YOU can support them.
From tour operators to travel designers, it's a diverse lineup that captures the essence of the evolving tourism landscape. We encourage you to connect and collaborate with these fabulous wmn+!
Featuring:
Pooja Akula | Ibtida Homes
Lisa Bisceglia | Surf For Life
Dr. LaDonna Sanders Nkosi | Ubuntu Global Collective, LLC
Diana Oglivie | Urban Sass Travels
Grace Philipp | Discover Queer
Sara Champagne | Avia Collective
LaKeshia Banks | Revive and Roam Travel
Maya Strasser | Delicious Discoveries
wmnsWORK Demo Day 2026 showcases an inspiring collection of women and non-binary wmnsWORK Tourism Business Accelerator Program graduates transforming the tourism industry. Founded by Iris Serbanescu in 2022, wmnsWORK has become the industry's first global virtual accelerator program specifically designed for women and non-binary entrepreneurs in early-stage tourism businesses. With nearly 60 graduates from 21 countries, the program has demonstrated impressive results in fostering diverse leadership, with 40% of graduates being BIPOC and 10% LGBTQIAA+.
Beyond the summaries provided below, you’ll want to tune in to the whole episode to hear directly from each entrepreneur how their organizations are providing a groundbreaking impact on travel and tourism.
wmnsWORK Demo Day 2026 - Cohort 7 - is sponsored by:
TourRadar
Intrepid Travel
Explore Worldwide
The IGLTA Foundation
Rokitplace
LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation on PayPal.
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals
Sustainable Development Goal #5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Resources & Links Mentioned in the Episode
Visit https://wmnswork.com/ to learn more about the Tourism Business Accelerator program and support their efforts to support women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs.
About the Soul Of Travel Podcast
Soul of Travel honors the passion and dedication of people making a positive impact in the tourism industry. In each episode, you’ll hear the stories of women who are industry professionals, seasoned travelers, and community leaders. Our expert guests represent social impact organizations, adventure-based community organizations, travel photography and videography, and entrepreneurs who know that travel is an opportunity for personal awareness and a vehicle for global change.
Join us to become a more educated and intentional traveler as you learn about new destinations, sustainable and regenerative travel, and community-based tourism. Industry professionals and those curious about a career in travel will also find value and purpose in our conversations.
We are thought leaders, action-takers, and heart-centered change-makers who inspire and create community. Join host Christine Winebrenner Irick for these soulful conversations with our global community of travelers exploring the heart, the mind, and the globe.
Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts
Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!
Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.
Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.
Learn more about Lotus Sojourns
Looking for ways to be a part of the community? Learn more here!
Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women.
Follow us on Instagram:@souloftravelpodcast and @she.sojourns
You can find me on Facebook at Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community, or follow me on Instagram either @lotussojourns or @souloftravelpodcast. Stay up to date by joining the Lotus Sojourns mailing list. I look forward to getting to know you and hopefully hearing your story.