Three Individuals Revolutionizing Travel for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Future

Photo credit: www.travelandleisure.com

Travel has the unique ability to transport us to sun-kissed beaches, renowned restaurants, and iconic art galleries. Yet, one of the most enriching aspects of travel often goes unnoticed: the remarkable individuals we encounter. Some of these individuals are innovating the travel industry in transformative ways. This article highlights three influential figures who are positively reshaping the travel landscape through their initiatives in aviation, hospitality, and culinary arts.

Teara Fraser

Fraser launched Iskwew Air in 2019.

Teara Fraser, a Métis woman from Canada’s Northwest Territories, did not initially envision a career in aviation. However, a life-changing aerial tour over Botswana’s Okavango Delta in 2001 ignited her passion for flying. “It was one of the pivotal moments of my life,” she reflects. Upon returning to Canada, Fraser began flight training and earned her pilot’s license within a year.

While working for an aerial-survey company, the 2010 Vancouver Olympics drew considerable attention to Indigenous communities in Canada. Recognizing the lack of transportation options to these regions created a barrier to tourism, Fraser felt compelled to act. “Culturally, we’re taught to do good with the knowledge and skills we’ve been blessed with,” she explains. This realization led her to establish Iskwew Air, aiming to connect travelers with the remote communities of British Columbia.

Iskwew Air, Canada’s first Indigenous-owned and female-led airline, commenced operations in 2019, offering daily flights between Vancouver International Airport and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. The airline also provides private charter services to less accessible locations within the province. The name Iskwew (pronounced iss-kway-yo) translates to “woman” in Cree, a nod to the matriarchal aspects of Métis culture that Fraser cherishes.

Since launching her airline, Fraser has been a vigorous advocate for a more inclusive and sustainable aviation sector. Her nonprofit organization, Give Them Wings, inspires Indigenous youth to pursue careers in aviation. Additionally, Iskwew Air offsets its carbon footprint by purchasing credits from the Great Bear Forest Carbon Project. In 2023, she went a step further by founding Elibird Aero, a company focused on developing clean aerotechnologies like fully electric planes. Fraser also ventured into the hospitality industry with the co-ownership of Liberty Wilderness Lodge, a secluded retreat in northern B.C. with her husband, Trevin.

“Getting my wings gave me wings for everything else in my life,” Fraser asserts. “It instilled in me the courage to take on new challenges and emphasized the importance of perseverance.” —Gina DeCaprio Vercesi

Sarah Dusek

Jacob and Sarah Dusek harvesting tea in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Sarah Dusek is redefining sustainable tourism with her latest project, the Few & Far Luvhondo, a six-suite luxury safari lodge located in South Africa. With previous success as the co-founder of the popular glamping company Under Canvas, which sold for $100 million in 2018, Dusek is committed to leveraging hospitality to benefit the planet. Nestled in the Soutpansberg Mountains, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lodge is surrounded by diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the pangolin. An organic farm fuels the lodge’s kitchen, and through habitat restoration efforts, the project aims to capture over 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually. “This is a place to immerse yourself in nature and let it resonate within you,” Dusek shares. —Elaine Glusac

Vikas Khanna

Vikas Khanna, a renowned Indian chef, at his restaurant Bungalow in New York City.

Vikas Khanna, celebrated for his culinary expertise, has authored numerous cookbooks, garnered Michelin stars, and recently opened the highly anticipated restaurant Bungalow in New York City. However, one of his most significant contributions emerged during the pandemic when he initiated Feed India, a program dedicated to distributing meals to families in need across his home country. “It all started small,” Khanna states, reflecting on the effort that began amid chaos. By the time he had to shift his focus to Bungalow, intended as a tribute to his late sister Radhika, the initiative had successfully provided 84 million meals. The restaurant opened on what would have been her 50th birthday. “Some of the most impactful creations come from places of heartbreak.” —Hannah Selinger

Source
www.travelandleisure.com