On March 28, 2025, Toronto School Management (TSOM) welcomed students from the Hospitality & Tourism (H&T), Business, and Management programs to its third installment of the Hospitality & Tourism Sustainability Workshop Series. The event featured distinguished guests, including Isabel Martin-Benitez, Consul for Tourism at the Embassy of Spain in Canada (Tour Spain), and Member of the Ontario Provincial Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt, Aris Babikian, along with local industry professionals who shared their insights and expertise on opportunities for sustainability in tourism in Canada and Spain.
Isabel Martin-Benitez delivered the keynote presentation and took attendees on a virtual tour of Spain’s vibrant tourism landscape. She outlined Spain’s national strategy for sustainable tourism development, addressing issues such as overtourism and environmental impacts.
Following the presentation, students participated in an interactive activity, tackling real-world sustainability challenges in hospitality. Working in teams, they proposed innovative solutions to scenarios presented by the Consul. The quality of ideas impressed the panel, with the Consul noting she would share one group’s proposal with her department.
Cultural enrichment was a central feature of the event, including a Spanish-inspired fashion show featuring local design talent organized by Karen Ferguson of the Toronto Designers Market and a history of flamenco presented by Kiyo Asaoka, manager of Tablao Flamenco Toronto.
By engaging directly with industry experts, TSOM students gained valuable insights into sustainability and innovation in the tourism industry, furthering their professional growth and global perspective.
TSOM extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Rasmi Kokash, faculty and support staff, and all participating delegates, including MPP Aris Babikian, the Embassy of Spain in Canada, Tour Spain, and cultural contributors for their generous support and engagement in this impactful student event.
