TOTA AGM & Summit
- Hatch Comms
- Sep 12, 2025
- 3 min read
For Immediate Release
September 12, 2025
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Announces
2025 AGM & Summit
“New Routes, Bold Futures: Navigating Tourism’s Transformation” to take place
October 22–23 at the KF Centre for Excellence
Kelowna, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in partnership with Tourism Kelowna, is proud to announce its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) & Summit, taking place October 22 and 23 at the KF Centre for Excellence in Kelowna. With the theme “New Routes, Bold Futures: Navigating Tourism’s Transformation,” the two-day event will bring together leaders and stakeholders to explore the future of tourism across the Thompson Okanagan and beyond.
The Summit highlights community engagement, regional opportunities, and the continuous preparation that ensures tourism professionals and businesses are ready to seize the future with confidence. Industry professionals are invited to listen, learn, and collaborate to build relationships that elevate visitor experiences, support businesses, and regenerate communities.
Day one (October 22) begins with TOTA’s AGM from 1:30 to 3:30 pm, followed by opening remarks and a Welcome Reception hosted by Tourism Kelowna. The following day, the full Summit program unfolds with keynotes and panel discussions on travel trade, innovative transportation, technology, culinary tourism, wellness, agritourism, and the economic value of tourism.
“Strength lies in community, collaboration, and confidence,” says Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA. “This year’s Summit is an opportunity to unite as an industry, share insights, and explore bold ideas that will shape the future of tourism in our region. It is also about preparing our industry to meet opportunities ahead with confidence. I encourage all tourism professionals to join us in Kelowna this October and be part of these important conversations.”
Colin Brost, Senior Director of Destination & Market Development, Tourism Sun Peaks
Janice Taylor, CEO, AH-HA Healing
Joe Baker, Dean, School of Business, Okanagan College
Rebecca Mackenzie, President & CEO, Culinary Tourism Alliance
Sam Samaddar, CEO, Kelowna International Airport
Katrin Coldwell, Contracting Manager, Jonview
Jennifer Horsnell, Senior Director, Destination Canada
Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC
Gordon Lovegrove, Professor, School of Engineering, University of British Columbia Okanagan
Tracy Zeisberger, Tourism Business Development Specialist (Moderator)
The KF Centre for Excellence provides a state-of-the-art backdrop for this year’s gathering, highlighting the importance of transportation, innovation, and sustainability in tourism. Located adjacent to Kelowna International Airport, the venue offers accessible facilities, on-site parking, and a unique aviation heritage experience.
“Tourism Kelowna is thrilled to partner with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) to welcome the 2025 TOTA Summit to our city this fall,” says Lisanne Ballantyne, Tourism Kelowna President & CEO. “With this year’s theme of ‘New Routes, Bold Futures’, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring our tourism community together to create meaningful connections and share an authentic taste of what makes the Thompson Okanagan such a dynamic and inspiring destination.”
Summit passes include all sessions and the Welcome Reception, register here. The AGM is free to attend with advance registration. As an added bonus, all paid Summit attendees will be entered into a draw to win two Air Canada tickets, valued at $2,360, for travel within Canada or select North American destinations (must be in attendance to claim).
For details, agenda, and registration, visit www.TOTASummit.com.
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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA plays a support, leadership, and growth role in the tourism industry as a regional destination management organization. It aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key initiatives include; Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.
For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the consumer facing website ThompsonOkanagan.com. Connect socially at @Thompson_Okanagan
The 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge
Join the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association in safeguarding our beautiful region for future generations. Inspired by Indigenous philosophy, the 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Regional Pledge highlights our shared responsibility: the actions we take today impact the next seven generations and beyond. Commit today to caring for and respecting the land and communities of the Thompson Okanagan. Sign here.
Media Contact:
Krista Lochhead
Hatch Comms
778.227.2396
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