Connecting People and Professions
Acsenda School of Management is embracing the future with confidence, curiosity, and innovation. Through a strong commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and community-focused research, Acsenda continues to evolve as a future-ready institution. This forward-thinking approach was proudly showcased at the PDGIA 2025 Conference, hosted by New York Institute, where members of the Acsenda community presented research that reflects today’s most pressing challenges, and how education can turn them into opportunities.
With a focus on connecting people and professions in an increasingly interconnected world, the conference welcomed thought leaders and emerging voices exploring topics ranging from sustainability and Indigenous empowerment to the role of AI in education. Representing Acsenda with professionalism and purpose, students and faculty tackled critical global themes through the lens of tourism and social impact.
Presentation 1
Title: The Indigenous Tourism Value Chain and the Prospect of Pro-Poor Tourism – A Case Study, Vancouver, British Columbia
Presenters: Sacnicte Valdez & Thomas Gomes
This research explored the transformative potential of Indigenous tourism as a vehicle for poverty alleviation and cultural resilience. Through a case study of Vancouver’s tourism ecosystem, Sacnicte and Professor Gomes highlighted how collaborative value chains can create sustainable and inclusive economic pathways for Indigenous communities.
Presentation 2
Title: Adventure Tourism and the Impacts on Indigenous Livelihoods in Vancouver, British Columbia
Presenters: Marizol Charles Gomez & Thomas Gomes
Marizol and Professor Gomes examined the expanding adventure tourism sector and its implications for Indigenous populations. Their work sparked valuable dialogue about ethical tourism, environmental stewardship, and economic equity, proposing actionable frameworks to protect and uplift Indigenous livelihoods.
These presentations not only emphasize Acsenda’s academic excellence and real-world impact, but also illustrate the school’s evolving integration of AI-powered learning systems and commitment to equity, diversity, and innovation. At the heart of this journey is Acsenda’s belief in the power of education as a force for positive change, locally and globally.
As we move forward in a rapidly shifting world, conferences like PDGIA 2025 remind us that the future belongs to those who learn, adapt, and lead with purpose. Acsenda is proud to stand at the forefront of that movement, connecting people, professions, and possibilities.
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INTERNATIONAL THINKING. INDIVIDUAL FOCUS
