In the heart of Marrakesh’s historic Old Medina, WFTGA Global Brand Ambassador Maricar Donato welcomed Sahara Holidays, represented by El Khalil Balla, as a candidate for WFTGA Affiliate Membership. The warm reception took place at the picturesque Riad Christina, symbolising a growing network of unity and collaboration within the global tourism community.

Accompanying the meeting was Hemmi Driss, a respected Marrakesh tourist guide from the Moroccan Tourist Guide Syndicate, who joined hands in a gesture of friendship and shared commitment to peacebuilding through sustainable tourism. Their gathering underscored the WFTGA’s mission to foster cross-cultural understanding and support local tourist guides in contributing to global peace and economic resilience.

“Tourism is not just about visiting new places; it’s about building bridges between cultures and nurturing peace,” said Maricar Donato. “Through partnerships like this, we strengthen our global family of tourist guides and promote sustainable tourism as a force for good.”

Maricar Donato is currently in Morocco attending the International Conference on Heritage Interpretation, hosted by the National Association for Interpretation from 15 to 26 May. In her role  as a Global Brand Ambassador she advocates for tourism’s potential to unite communities and create lasting connections.

The WFTGA is delighted to support initiatives that highlight the essential role of tourist guides as cultural ambassadors and peacebuilders. The inclusion of Sahara Holidays as an Affiliate Member candidate reflects the WFTGA’s commitment to expanding its network and supporting sustainable tourism development in all corners of the world.