![At the WTTC Global Summit inauguration in Cancun, Mexico.](http://media.assettype.com/outlooktraveller%2Fimport%2Foutlooktraveller%2Fpublic%2Fuploads%2Farticles%2Ftravelnews%2Fshutterstock_image-(1)1.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
One of the largest employment generators, the travel and tourism industry, is reeling under the ravages of the pandemic for more than a year now.
Therefore, the World Tourism Council (WTTC), which recently held its Global Summit in Cancun, Mexico, has gone the extra mile to focus on empowering women so that they can take leadership roles as innovators and entrepreneurs.
WTTC launched its Cancun Women&rsquos Declaration at the global meet in the presence of 18 Grand Slam singles title winner, Martina Navratilova while WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara unveiled the public-private-academic partnership, which, according to WTTC, is aimed at promoting diversity and drive inclusivity to achieve equality for women throughout the travel and tourism industry.
WTTC organised the Global Summit for the first time since the outbreak of the pandemic - with tens of thousands more joining virtually - while complying with strict world-class health and hygiene protocols.
Regular testing was made available for all delegates attending for the duration of the summit to ensure their safety was paramount.
President & CEO Gloria Guevara said, &ldquoOur very presence here, shows that we can resume international travelling once more, by observing the latest health and safety protocols, which WTTC has helped develop for businesses large and small throughout the sector.
At WTTC&rsquos Global Leaders Dialogue session, participants debated how the sector could tackle pressing issues of protecting jobs, saving businesses, and supporting the global economy through the safe revival of international travel.
Implementation of digital technology &ndash such as using biometrics -- was emphasized upon as critical to creating a contactless, safe and seamless traveller journey.