Conference aims to redefine tourism as a force for social good 

Tourism: Our Voice, will be the first national conference that puts people and purpose at the heart of the visitor economy.   

Taking place at York St John University’s Creative Centre on Thursday 3 July this groundbreaking event will explore how community-led tourism, and regenerative approaches to destination management can drive real social impact across the UK.  

Tourism touches every corner of our country, from major cities and cultural hotspots to remote islands, market towns, and coastal communities. It fuels local economies, supports millions of jobs, and plays a vital role in shaping the identity and vibrancy of the places we live and visit.   

While the sector generates vast economic value, those benefits are not always distributed equally.   

Too often, those living in popular tourist destinations, particularly individuals from economically marginalised backgrounds, see little of the opportunity it creates. In some cases, the pressures of tourism can even deepen wealth disparities, driving up living costs, displacing local people, or straining public services. The challenge now is to rethink how tourism can serve not just visitors, but also the people and communities who call these destinations home.  

With a powerful blend of community voices and academic insight, this conference will dive into three critical themes:  

• Building local wealth through community businesses and social enterprises. 

• Amplifying resident voice and representation in tourism decision making. 

• Building a coalition to influence policy and effect change, locally, regionally and nationally.  

The event is being organised by Good Organisation, a York-based Community Interest Company that is leading a transformative shift in tourism, which prioritises social, economic and spatial justice.

It is supported by York St John University’s Institute for Social Justice and York Business School and follows on from joint work on a Shared City Manifesto - a list of suggestions from residents to ensure that tourism in York is managed in a sustainable way that benefits everyone.    

Kenny Lieske, one of Good Organisation’s Directors said:   

“Across Europe, we’re seeing a growing wave of public protest against over-tourism. People are rightly pushing back against models of destination management that prioritise profit over people and place. This conference is about offering an alternative.

"It’s about showing that tourism doesn’t have to come at the expense of communities, and can be shaped by them, and for them. Regenerative, community-led tourism isn’t just a hopeful idea; it’s a necessary step toward a more inclusive and sustainable future."   

Professor Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School and Chair of York Tourism Advisory Board, said:  

“Tourism must evolve to be more inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in the communities it touches. ‘Tourism: Our Voice’ marks a vital step in reimagining the sector as a catalyst for social good, not just economic gain.

"York St John University is proud to support this important national conversation that places equity, collaboration, and long-term impact at its core.”  

Those attending can expect a day of bold ideas and practical insights, from a variety of inspiring speakers, including Carron Tobin from SCOTO (Scotland’s Community Tourism Network) and Jess Silvester from Peoples Economy UK.  

Whether you’re in tourism, policy, academia, social enterprise, or just passionate about a fairer future for your local community, then this conference is for you.  

To book a place, visit https://www.goodorganisation.co.uk/events.html