These Women Are Changing the Travel Industry with Their Businesses

Entrepreneurship is a challenging road, yet the number of small businesses with women leaders is rising. Notably, female-founded companies often outperform their male counterparts, with compelling statistics showing that women secure only a fraction of venture capital funding. The travel sector is experiencing significant growth with female entrepreneurs, and the following are eight leaders who are reshaping the industry with their innovative businesses.

Grace Lee of WishPoints and Million Patients Cured

In 2016, Grace Lee founded WishPoints, an app designed for friends to connect and share travel plans and advice. A few years later, she launched Million Patients Cured, which offers a user-friendly platform helping travelers swiftly understand health mandates, testing sites, and clinical research with just a few clicks.

One of her proudest moments was assembling a diverse team of 32 experts in science, public health, programming, and social impact to provide accessible pandemic-related information, including a searchable database of mandates for all 50 states.

Preeti Suri of AdventureTripr

Preeti Suri’s goal with AdventureTripr is to enhance outdoor accessibility for all. After becoming a mother, Suri realized resources were limited for those like her—an Indian mom without outdoor experience. Consequently, she created an app that offers fully customized itineraries based on user preferences and skill levels, complete with safety instructions and gear information.

“Climbing to the top of a mountain feels empowering,” she states. “I’m proud to foster a community where others can experience the joy of outdoor adventures.”

Kristin Braswell of CrushGlobal

Kristin Braswell founded CrushGlobal, focusing on connecting travelers with unique experiences that deepen their understanding of the destinations they explore. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic to travel businesses, she persevered and initiated programs that encourage American travelers to embark on US road trips while supporting POC-owned businesses. Her dedication has been rewarding as the initiative continues to gain traction.

Youmie Jean Francois of Flex-n-Fly

Founded in March 2018 by Youmie Jean Francois, Flex-n-Fly offers yoga and relaxation classes for travelers facing anxiety. Recognizing the stress many feel in chaotic airport environments, she aimed to create a serene space for travelers to enjoy their journeys, rather than fret about reaching their destinations. Moreover, her products are sustainably sourced, earning invaluable recognition in the wellness sphere.

Sequoia Armstrong of Puebla York

Sequoia Armstrong established Puebla York to promote a sustainable culinary experience connecting Japanese and Mexican food cultures. Her venture encourages travelers to support small businesses and engage in meaningful experiences while prioritizing environmental considerations. Armstrong takes pride in her commitment to giving back and fostering a community around her brand since its inception in 2019.

Imani Bashir of The Takeoff Collection

Imani Bashir, an accomplished journalist, launched The Takeoff Collection in 2020 while living in Mexico. Her vision was to develop products that enhance the travel experience, leading to the creation of the Expat Bag. She emphasizes breaking out of familiar confines through travel and is particularly proud of the positive reception her product has received in the market.

Katalina Mayorga of El Camino Travel

Katalina Mayorga founded El Camino Travel in 2014 with the mission to create a leading digital community for adventurous female travelers. Recognizing the lack of safety-focused options for women, she worked to develop services that empower women to confidently explore new destinations. Notably, she is proud of her initiatives collaborating with former gang members in Colombia and Indigenous communities in Mexico, enriching cultural exchanges and travel experiences.

Souta Calling Last of Indigenous Vision

Indigenous Vision, founded by Souta Calling Last in 2015, seeks to revitalize Indigenous communities through educational resources and quality programs that enhance well-being. A significant accomplishment includes establishing the Cultural Conservation Land Trust, which aids Indigenous access to significant historical sites. Currently, they are working on an interactive app to share information about historical places and Indigenous-owned businesses.