James, Kapi, and Viola discuss their recent guiding experiences and challenges. James is currently in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, enjoying a brief break between tours. Kapi is recovering after a long stretch of back-to-back tours, while Viola shares a recent complaint from a guest about a closed castle. They exchange tips on managing tour reports and dealing with difficult guests. The conversation touches on the busy nature of their work, the importance of documentation, and the occasional frustrations of dealing with unreasonable tourists.

The board meets to discuss updating the WFTGA constitution with the help of governance consultant John Peacock. John recommends creating a 2-3 page "blueprint" outlining key changes before drafting the full constitution. Major proposed changes include adding a mission statement, expanding membership eligibility, and simplifying the fee structure. John advises getting member input on the blueprint through webinars before finalizing the new constitution for a vote at the February general assembly. Sebastian requests a formal proposal from John outlining the process and costs. John agrees to draft an initial blueprint for the board to review and debate at their next meeting.

Sebastian leads a meeting to discuss various WFTGA matters. The group begins by thanking Viola and Ivana for their work on the Constitution. Members provide brief updates on their busy schedules and current situations. Inaki shares information about new regulations in Toledo that will limit free tour marketing practices in public spaces, which generates interest from other members as a potential model for addressing similar issues elsewhere.

Sebastian provides an update on the Japan convention registration process. The Japanese website is online and registration has started, with 160-180 individual registrations so far. The pre and post tours are expected to sell out in 2 weeks at the current rate. Sebastian advises Expo members to register for the main convention and hotel as soon as possible, choosing "pay by invoice" option, to secure their spots. There are some complications with the registration system, leading to frustrations and complaints from participants. Sebastian suggests that Expo members and their accompanying persons email their plans for pre and post tours, which will be compiled and handled separately with the organizers. The team also discusses the need to focus on securing good speakers and workshops for the convention, as the current proposals do not align with their expectations for guiding-related topics.

Sebastian proposes a major change to the convention bidding process, suggesting that WFTGA take over organizing the main convention while host countries focus on pre- and post-tours. The proposal aims to simplify bidding and give WFTGA more control, but raises concerns about capacity and implementation. The group discusses pros and cons, including potential for increased revenue and professionalism, but also increased workload. They agree to develop a blueprint for the new approach, starting with Sebastian drafting an initial structure, before potentially consulting with external partners. The group plans to finalize the new bidding document and explain changes to members via webinar by late July or early August.

Sebastian proposes holding a virtual General Assembly on October 15th from 1 PM to 3 PM Central European Time. The team agrees on this date after discussing various options and considering members' availability. Sebastian plans to send out a "save the date" notice this week. The virtual General Assembly is expected to last two hours and will address important matters, though the specific agenda items are still to be determined. Sebastian mentions that more time is needed to consider how to proceed with potential changes to the constitution and fee structure.

Sebastian provides an update on the culture card initiative, reporting 1,050 digital card registrations and 353 plastic cards ordered. The card is working well and recognized at museums. The digital card company has agreed to offer an NGO discount. Sebastian shares a breakdown of card orders by country, with Germany leading at 750 orders. The team discusses scheduling the Virtual General Assembly meeting, settling on Monday, the 13th at 1 PM. Juan reports that the culture cards have generated almost €5,000 in revenue, but notes issues with invoices for payments made through Wise. Sebastian mentions ongoing discussions with app developers for potential AI-based live translation technology, though current tests show limitations. Viola provides a brief update on training initiatives, including the formation of a wildlife nature guiding working group and the receipt of 10 applications for the train-the-trainer program.

Sebastian announces that he has asked the bank to close the Raiffeisen Bank account in Austria by the end of October. He and Herman will sign the final documents and transfer the remaining funds to the Wise account. Ivana mentions upcoming meetings and will send an email summarizing invitations received. The team discusses promoting the event on social media, with James offering to help coordinate with the Japanese social media team. Christina reports an increase in individual member applications and discusses the need to update association contact information. The group agrees to issue a statement on illegal guiding and create a list of countries where guiding is regulated, with Kapi volunteering to lead this project.