“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. We get to experience life in a third world country with a unique history, and hopefully make a difference,” said Kyle Stubbs, a Tourism & Hospitality Management student.
The students, who are accompanied by Dr. Wanda George, Associate Professor, Tourism & Hospitality Management and Ardath Whynacht, Project Manager for the Research and International Office, will be participating in cultural activities, such as weaving, wood carving and hiking. They’re also enriching their experience by staying with local families.
“It’s really an exciting adventure,” said Amber Lonie, a Public Relations student. “We’re going to have a different perspective being there on the ground compared to just reading about it.”
This initiative is part of a partnership that the Mount has developed with Awamaki, a non-profit, non-governmental organization that runs a weaving project in Patacancha, located in the mountains above Ollantaytambo. Awamaki works with women to improve the quality of their weavings, to revitalize the textile tradition, and most importantly, to provide a reliable income for the weavers. The Mount chose to partner with the organization because of its strong cooperative, community-based model of cultural tourism business that has created positive impacts for the community.
This project, which was made possible through grants from the Pacrim Tourism and Hospitality Management Enhancement Fund, allows the students to learn and think critically about sustainable tourism. When they return, they will assist in educating the campus and broader community about the potential for similar community-based cooperative business models in the tourism industry.
Awamaki will also benefit from the project because the students will compile a report that will analyze and assess the sustainability of tourism in the area. This will allow Awamaki to further expand its business model.
“The students are bringing their education to the community to share what they have learned. It’s an opportunity for them to see how tourism unfolds,” says Dr. George. “It’s an experience that will benefit the students and the community.”
The students hope their input can help shape and steer businesses for sustainable impact, but they are also eager to gain personal experience.
