Hollywood Actor Winston Duke Named UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcoming Winston Duke as the organization’s newest Ambassador for Responsible Tourism. Photo source: UNWTO

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently announced the appointment of acclaimed actor Winston Duke as its newest Ambassador for Responsible Tourism.

Recognized for his talent and commitment to global philanthropic efforts, Duke will advocate for sustainable tourism practices and raise awareness about the transformative power of travel, in support of UNWTO’s latest “Tourism Open Minds” campaign.

Launched by UNWTO on the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27 September, the “Tourism Open Minds” campaign aims to promote inclusive and sustainable tourism by fostering dialogue, understanding, and respect among travelers and local communities. It encourages travelers to embrace diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives while also highlighting the positive impact of tourism on local economies and the environment.

As UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism, Duke will actively support UNWTO’s mission to promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices. He will work closely with the organization to advocate for the importance of tourism in fostering economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting the environment.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Duke said: “I am deeply honored to join the United Nations World Tourism Organization as an Ambassador. To journey, to travel is the act of confronting the truth…in that truth, we see that we are so much more alike than we are different, and without knowing it, we build bridges. If travel is a bridge, then tourism is the engineer.”

Duke, renowned for his captivating performances in critically acclaimed films such as “Black Panther”, “Us”, and “Nine Days”, has consistently demonstrated his dedication to social causes, making him an ideal choice for this prestigious role.

On his part, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said the UN organization is honored to welcome Winston Duke as its Ambassador for Responsible Tourism.

“As an actor, he is a master storyteller and capable of showcasing the power of tourism to open minds and transform lives, and as a humanitarian, he lives tourism’s values of empathy, delivering opportunity for all and going the extra mile for the common good. UNWTO looks forward to an exciting and fruitful relationship with Duke,” Pololikashvili added.

Photo source: UNWTO

Duke will actively participate in various initiatives, campaigns, and events organized by the UNWTO across the world to promote responsible tourism practices and advocate for the sector’s recovery. “His influential voice and global reach will undoubtedly contribute to raising awareness and inspiring positive change within the tourism industry,” the UNWTO said.