What Tofino Can Teach Us About Stewardship, Respect, and Learning

Destination Stewardship Through Relationships, Respect, and Learning

Reflections from Samantha Hackett's conversation on the Learn Tourism podcast

Tourism Tofino Executive Director Samantha Hackett is featured in the latest episode of the Learn Tourism podcast, where she joins host Stephen Ekstrom for a thoughtful conversation on stewardship, destination management, and the responsibilities that come with welcoming visitors to a place as special as Tofino.

The discussion explores a question many tourism communities are grappling with: how do we create meaningful visitor experiences while supporting the long-term well-being of the people, cultures, and ecosystems that make a destination worth visiting in the first place?

Throughout the conversation, Samantha shares how Tourism Tofino's approach to destination stewardship has evolved through relationships, learning, and collaboration. She reflects on the importance of understanding Tofino's place within Tla-o-qui-aht territory and how the Nuu-chah-nulth teaching of ʔiisaak, often understood as respect with caring action, has helped shape Tourism Tofino's Destination Stewardship Plan.

The episode also highlights the value of humility and ongoing learning. From community engagement to experiences like clam gardening alongside Tla-o-qui-aht members, Samantha speaks about the opportunities that emerge when tourism leaders create space to listen, learn, and deepen their connection to place.

For tourism professionals, community leaders, and anyone interested in the future of destination stewardship, the conversation offers valuable insights into how relationships, respect, and shared responsibility can shape a more resilient visitor economy.