Our People

Our People

Inspire Global is founder-led and strengthened by a wider network of tourism professionals who share our belief in the power of tourism to build understanding and create lasting value. Their experience, perspectives and connections help us bring together trade, media and consumers in ways that encourage better conversations, stronger relationships and more meaningful outcomes.

Byron Shirto is the Founder of Inspire Global and has spent more than 30 years working across travel, tourism and events, creating platforms that bring people together and turn shared ideas into meaningful action. He served on the board of the Latin American Travel Association for more than eight years, including as Chairman, and has created and developed major travel events including LATA Expo, Experience Africa and Brand USA Travel Week.

Today, his work through Inspire Global spans trade, media and consumer audiences, bringing them together through awards, marketplaces, curated business events, the Inspire Global community and The Travel Festivals. His approach is guided by the belief that tourism is at its best when visitors and host communities have as much to gain from one another as they have to give.

Byron Shirto, Founder, Inspire Global

Inspire Global Ambassadors

Inspire Global Ambassadors are experienced tourism leaders and advocates who share our purpose and lend their insight, experience and connections to the wider mission. Together, they bring perspectives from across destinations, tour operating, marketing and responsible tourism, helping us remain connected to the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Alex Bentley

AUDLEY TRAVEL
Global Head of Product

Chad Carey

CHIMU ADVENTURES
Co-Founder

Nick Coates

DIFFERENT JAPAN
Founder

Helena Egan

PLANET EGAN
Co-Founder & Director

Tito Gana

ELOHI
Chief Executive Officer

Andrew Hunt

HOLIDAY ARCHITECTS
Owner

Jim Millward

SPRUCE MARKETING
Director

Praveen Moman

VOLCANOES SAFARIS
Founder

Ndaba Ndlovu

TOUCH NATURE
Founder & Tourism Innovator

Chris Pickard

CRITICAL DIVIDE
Founder & Director

Paulo Senise

Brazil Destination Marketing
Associate Consultant

Raj Tamang

Responsible Adventures
Founder

Muriel Truter

ASKARI TRAVEL
Founder & Principal

Tolene van der Merwe

VISIT MALTA
Director: UK & Ireland

Alistair Walls

FAR & WILD
Managing Director

Justin Wateridge

STEPPES TRAVEL
Managing Director
Scroll to Top