We want to send a big thank you to everyone who participated in the 2022 VICtor Awards by nominating your friends, family, and peers to celebrate Black excellence in the travel and tourism industry! To our judges, DeAnna Taylor, Travel Editor; Eulanda Osagiede, co-founder of Dip Your Toes In; and Brenda O’Neale, Advisory Board Member of the Association of Black Travel Professionals, thank you for taking the time to help make our inaugural awards ceremony a success!
Meet the Winners!
We’ve asked a few of our winners to share their thoughts on Black excellence in the travel and tourism industry with you.
Black Tourism/Hospitality Career Professional of the Year
“There’s no question that Black travelers have been some of the most influential and innovative in the travel industry. From early explorers like the Green Book being the original AirBnB, to Black travelers making their mark on the world. There are many reasons for this success. For one thing, Black travelers are used to dealing with adversity. We’ve had to overcome challenges like racism and discrimination in order to achieve our goals. This resilience has helped us excel in the travel industry, where we’ve often had to blaze new trails. Another reason for Black excellence in travel is the importance of culture and family ties within the community. Black travelers often travel together, sharing advice and support along the way.”
Black Travel Organization/Brand of the Year
“In my travels throughout Latin America, I’m discovering that Blackness is about more than race and color. Blackness is an experience. Live Be Do promotes Black excellence in travel by facilitating cultural exchange between Black communities.”
Black Travel Journalist of the Year
Black Travel Agent/Advisor of the Year
“Being a Black luxury brand owner within the travel industry can feel very lonely at times. I got tired of seeing Black & Brown faces in service fields rather than as owners or advisors. I knew that narrative had to change, so I became the change I was seeking. No longer did I desire to come to the table, because I’ll come back owning the restaurant! Black excellence is representation in every sense of the word. To be able to show future Black leaders in the industry that they belong, and have a voice.”
Black Travel Influencer/ Creator of the Year
Best Travel Short of the Year
We can’t wait to see you all at the 2022 Gala and VICtor Awards show to celebrate our winners and yourselves for bringing Black excellence to our industry. In partnership with the Black Travel Alliance and the Association of Black Travel Professionals.
Event Date/Time: June 17th, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM EST
Location: The Confidante Miami Beach
