From Chocolate to Chief: Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana's Journey in Tourism Leadership

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March 18, 2025 • 32 mins

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, hosted by Michelle Caldwell, the spotlight is once again on women in tourism. Michelle launches with exciting details about the Women in Tourism Accelerator program competition, run in conjunction with Grow Tourism and Powrsuit. The episode features Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana, Managing Director of TRC Tourism. Kylie shares her inspiring career journey, encompassing roles from Tourism New Zealand to managing a multinational, and eventually leading TRC Tourism. She discusses her passion for Aotearoa, helping Māori communities, and sustainable tourism. Kylie also delves into her experiences with multicultural work, leadership lessons, and tips for emerging leaders in the tourism industry. The conversation touches on the strengths of new generations, tourism trends, and Kylie's vision for the future of women in tourism. 00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show 00:22 Exciting Competition Announcement 01:34 Introducing Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana 02:58 Kylie's Career Journey 08:38 Challenges and Opportunities 13:31 Leadership Lessons and Advice 28:51 Future of Women in Tourism 30:56 Conclusion and Farewell _____________________________________________________

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Today's Guest

Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-ruwhiu-karawana/

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.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}From Chocolate to Chief: Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana's Journey in Tourism Leadership