The 13th International Indigenous Tourism Conference started in Edmonton Tuesday, in hopes of building up the industry. Keith Henry, president and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, said the industry is worth about $1.7 billion to the Canadian economy. “What’s not known well is that Canada is an Indigenous destination on the international stage,” said Henry. “Canadians are starting to learn more about it, but really, the more work we do, it’s going to bring more economic potential. It’ll bring more cultural revitalization, it supports reconciliation.” The CEO of Indigenous Tourism Alberta said at least one in three international travelers are coming to Canada looking for an Indigenous tourism experience. “It’s our job to make sure that we have the experiences to meet that demand,” Chelsey Quirk told CTV News Edmonton. “We need to work hard to make sure our operators are equipped and have the support they need to take their dreams and turn them into reality.” She added that 75 per cent of Gen Z travellers are looking for an Indigenous tourism experience. Delegates from 14 countries are at the three-day conference as well as Indigenous leaders and stakeholders from across Canada. The conference showcases Indigenous businesses through a vendor market. Kim Brothers, manager of Calgary-based brand Moonstone Creation, said she’s seen a recent uptick in sales after working there for 17 years. “I do see a difference from when I first started to now,” said Brothers. “It has picked up for sure.” The conference at the Edmonton Expo Centre runs until Thursday. With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Gates Guarin
