Tourism Nananimo Joins Global Alliance of Destinations

Mar 31
2 min read

For Immediate Release

April 2, 2026

Tourism Nanaimo Inducted to Global Alliance of Destinations Transforming the Future of Tourism

Snuneymuxw First Nation Territory, Nanaimo, B.C. - Tourism Nanaimo has officially joined the Destination Think Collective, a peer group of ambitious, forward-thinking destination management leaders who are committed to using travel to make a better world. This global network of destinations is leading the charge toward a sustainable future by implementing and promoting actionable solutions.

The Collective unites dozens of ambitious destinations worldwide, including Auckland, Banff, Copenhagen, Queenstown, Hawai’i, and Aruba. Member destinations believe that when tourism is intentionally aligned with community priorities and evolves to meet today’s challenges, it becomes a powerful driver of local prosperity, environmental responsibility, and community well-being. For Nanaimo, joining this movement reflects the city’s commitment to long-term prosperity as outlined in Doughnut Economy principles, to stewardship of the region’s environment, and to honouring its relationships with Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stzuminus Peoples.

“This is about shared responsibility,” said Carly Pereboom, CEO of Tourism Nanaimo. “By joining the Collective, we are strengthening our commitment to responsible destination management, grounded in care for community well-being, environmental stewardship, and meaningful visitor experiences, while learning alongside a global network to continually improve how tourism supports local communities, respects Indigenous perspectives, and contributes to long-term sustainability.”

A core belief of the Collective group is that travel uniquely enables people to experience sustainability solutions firsthand, inspiring them to embrace change. Visitors return home transformed, carrying new ideas and a deeper sense of responsibility that can turn into positive action within their home communities.

By integrating Doughnut Economy principles into its Official Community Plan, Nanaimo’s leaders have already set a high standard for ensuring tourism’s long-term success. Through the Collective, the city can share its leadership, learn from other destinations, inspire travellers seeking meaningful, responsible experiences, and help protect our planet and communities.

“Tourism is both vulnerable to climate and social disruption—and uniquely powerful in helping solve it,” said Rodney Payne, CEO of Destination Think, the organization facilitating the Collective. “We’re excited to welcome Nanaimo to the Collective, where they can be a vocal advocate for tourism-led solutions that redefine meaning and purpose in how visitors explore the world.”

Media images can be found here.

-30-

About Tourism Nanaimo:

Tourism Nanaimo is the official destination management organization for Nanaimo, British Columbia, playing a central role in how the city plans for and benefits from visitation. Rather than focusing solely on promotion, Tourism Nanaimo works across destination planning, experience and product development, business and event attraction, and strategic investment to ensure the visitor economy supports broader community outcomes.

Operating in alignment with Nanaimo ReImagined, the City of Nanaimo’s Official Community Plan, Tourism Nanaimo applies a Doughnut Economics approach to balance economic vitality with social well-being and environmental responsibility. This integrated model ensures tourism is planned as part of the city’s long-term growth and resilience, contributing to a destination that is economically strong, culturally vibrant, and livable for residents while remaining welcoming and competitive for visitors.

For more information, visit: tourismnanaimo.com, or connect socially on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok.