Woman of the Year in Tourism, Tourism Promotion, and Sustainable Tourism Development

Introduction:
In line with the Afro-Asian Union's (AFASU) commitment to honoring female leadership in vital sectors, the Woman of the Year in Tourism, Tourism Promotion, and Sustainable Tourism Development Award recognizes women who have left a remarkable impact in developing the tourism sector and successfully integrated sustainability and innovation into their strategies.

This award aims to spotlight women leaders in tourism and honor their contributions to supporting local economies, preserving cultural and natural heritage, and promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

About the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU):

AFASU is an international non-profit organization emerging from the world's second oldest international non-governmental popular organization, AAPSO. AFASU promotes cooperation between African and Asian countries in development, tourism, culture, economy, technology, and media.

It was established to support sustainable development and foster cultural and commercial exchange between the two continents. AFASU launches strategic initiatives, partnerships, and international forums to strengthen integration across all sectors, especially comprehensive development, economic cooperation, and tourism growth.

About the Parent Organization – AAPSO:

The Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity Organization (AAPSO) was founded by heads of state to promote solidarity among the peoples of Africa and Asia and support development, peace, and international cooperation.

It was established in 1957, following the Bandung Conference in Indonesia. The founding conference was held in Cairo in December 1957, where the international treaty was signed at Cairo University.

AAPSO now includes over 102 member countries from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. It holds observer status in the United Nations, WTO, UNCTAD, the Arab League, and other international bodies.

AAPSO supports initiatives that enhance relationships between peoples and governments, including those of AFASU.

AFASU Golden Awards:

The AFASU Golden Awards are the highest honors granted by the Union, dedicated to recognizing excellence across a wide range of sectors—particularly tourism, culture, heritage, arts, trade, industry, technology, and scientific research.

The awards aim to honor individuals, countries, cities, institutions, governments, and leaders contributing significantly to development, sustainability, and enhancing their nations' global image.

Purpose and Objectives of the Woman of the Year Award:

To honor women who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in tourism, leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, media, culture, arts, science, technology, and sports.

To recognize women who have made a distinctive impact within their institutions, professions, and communities.
The awardee embodies the values upheld by AFASU and represents the best of women in leadership and influence.
To highlight the role of women in achieving sustainable development and promoting gender equality.
To inspire women to innovate and actively participate in building more progressive and advanced societies.
To strengthen collaboration between women in Africa, Asia, and the Arab world to foster integration and shared success.

Award Definition:

This award is granted to a woman who has achieved tangible and influential accomplishments in the tourism sector and actively contributed to developing projects and initiatives that support sustainable tourism at the local, regional, or international level.

Award Criteria:

• Leadership:
  Initiator of a successful and impactful tourism project or initiative.
• Sustainability:
  Commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability in tourism.
• Community Impact:
  Clear role in empowering local communities or supporting vulnerable groups.
• Innovation:
  Implementation of creative ideas or modern technologies in tourism.
• Tourism Diplomacy & Promotion:
  Enhancing the national or regional image through tourism initiatives.
• Women Empowerment:
  Promoting women's participation in tourism directly or indirectly.
• Sustainability Over Time:
  Projects or actions with long-term impact beyond temporary initiatives.

International Judging Committee:

Importance:
Ensures the transparency and credibility of the award through professional evaluation standards.

Composition:
Composed of 45 global experts across various vital sectors and disciplines.

Vision:

To establish the award as a prestigious annual global platform that honors women leaders in tourism and inspires the next generation to innovate within sustainable tourism.

Mission:

To strengthen the role of women in the tourism industry and promote sustainable development principles by celebrating inspiring female models who balance economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation.

Objectives:

• Highlight women's leadership in sustainable tourism development.
• Encourage policies and programs that integrate women into the tourism sector.
• Promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices in communities.
• Build a network of female tourism leaders across Africa, Asia, and the Arab world.

Award Frequency and Nature:

Annual Award:
Granted once a year during an international forum or conference organized by AFASU.

Nature of the Award:
AFASU Golden Shield + International Certificate of Honor + exceptional media coverage and partnership opportunities.

Nomination Process:

Nominations are submitted through the AFASU High Committee for Judging, composed of seven appointed members.

Slogan:

"Female leadership inspiring sustainable tourism and driving global change."

Award Scope:

The award is open to women from African and Asian countries and Latin America. It may be exceptionally granted to figures outside these regions if their contributions serve the interests of the peoples of Africa and Asia in tourism.

Organizing Body:

The Afro-Asian Union for Tourism, Sustainable Development, and Technology – AFASU
President: Dr. Hossam Darwish
International Tourism Expert and President of the Union

Conclusion:

The Woman of the Year in Tourism and Sustainable Tourism Development Award reflects AFASU's belief that women can drive positive change in one of the world's most influential industries—tourism.
It is a call to recognize women's efforts and pave the way for greater innovation and global cooperation.