In recent decades, there has been remarkable growth in women’s contributions to the global tourism and hospitality industries. However, it is important to acknowledge that women have historically faced underrepresentation in management and leadership positions within these sectors. To address this issue at a local level, CTC recently organized a series of Training for Strengthening Women’s Groups in Sustainable Tourism Leadership in the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area (MPA).

From June 13 to 18, 2023, capacity-building activities were conducted with the goal of providing participants with essential knowledge and skills. These activities also focused on creating alternative community-based tourism trails in both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan Islands. The trainings were organized through a successful collaboration between CTC and Roote Trails, a tourism start-up based in Yogyakarta, serving as facilitators for the program.

The successful execution of these capacity-building initiatives was made possible through the support of the Australian Volunteer Program (AVP). The first round of trainings spanned three days and took place in Nusa Penida, with the attendance of 15 female participants from Ped, Batununggul, and Suana villages. The second training, also covering three days, was conducted in Nusa Lembongan and drew the participation of 11 female participants from Jungut Batu and Lembongan villages. These participants brought diverse backgrounds and perspectives, enriching the learning experience.

Under the guidance of knowledgeable facilitators from Roote Trails, the trainings provided in-depth tourism knowledge and enhanced guiding skills to representatives from local women’s groups within the Nusa Penida MPA. The sessions incorporated presentations, focus group discussions, and group assignments, fostering an inclusive environment to enable participants to comfortably express their opinions and thoughts about the tourism landscape in Nusa Penida.

As a result, most participants actively contributed to the creation of new alternative tourism objects and destinations, such as local seaweed farming, traditional dance workshops, natural salt making, and fermented cassava production. These unique attractions can later be incorporated into short community-based tourism trails, offering diverse experiences to visitors. Following the training, CTC and Roote Trails will be developing and promoting these trails to the public.

Anindya Kenyo, Co-Founder and Facilitator of Roote Trails, emphasized the importance of establishing alternative tourism routes, including in Nusa Penida. By diversifying the available options, the carrying capacity of the area can be more evenly distributed, reducing the strain on mainstream tourist destinations. This approach aims to create a more sustainable and balanced tourism ecosystem.

Offering a wider range of tourist routes can also bring a positive impact on the duration of tourists’ stays. When visitors have more diverse choices, they are more likely to extend their stay to explore different attractions and experiences. This, in turn, can contribute to the improvement of the local economy, as longer stays result in increased spending on accommodations, dining, and other services.

Ririn Dwi Rianti, a participant from the Tribudhi Yasa Youth Group in Lembongan Village, highlighted the positive impact of the training on her personal growth. She expressed, “The training significantly boosted my confidence in public speaking and promoting various tourism attractions in my village.”

To ensure a comprehensive training program, CTC and Roote Trails team also conducted a two-day macro survey in both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan prior to the sessions. These surveys played a crucial role in assessing the current tourism landscape and gaining a deeper understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations. By tailoring the training to address these specific requirements, this initiative not only benefits the individuals themselves but also contributes to the larger goals of marine conservation in the Nusa Penida MPA.

Writers: Yoga Putra, Herni Frilia Hastutie
Photos: Yoga Putra/CTC & Adam Putra/CTC