SITE Canada member Kate Goodwin, along with her colleagues at Destination St. John's in Newfoundland, are hosting SITE members and industry colleagues from July 15-18 at this year's Incentive Summit Americas.

To highlight the occasion — and to spotlight an excellent SITE Young Leader, too! — we caught up with Kate just before the 2024 Summit to preview what makes St. John's an unconventional-yet-memorable standout incentive travel destination, as well as what she hopes for the industry's future. 

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Q: Tell us a little bit about your involvement with SITE so far. How did you first get involved with the association, and what made you interested initially in becoming a member? 

A: My journey with SITE began when I joined Destination St. John’s, an emerging destination in the incentive travel realm. Becoming a member of SITE felt like a natural progression as I sought to immerse myself in the intricacies of incentive experiences, programs, and industry growth.

Q: Are there opportunities SITE has helped you with as a Young Leader specifically, while you grow your career in the incentive travel industry?

A: SITE has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory as a Young Leader. The opportunities it has presented have been invaluable. Through SITE, I've forged meaningful connections with industry peers and mentors, expanding my professional network exponentially within just a year. The educational resources offered by SITE are vast and diverse, providing me with continuous learning opportunities. In fact, I recently achieved my CIS certification! (I may be the first CIS in Newfoundland & Labrador — or one of the firsts, at least.)

Furthermore, my involvement with SITE has opened doors to exciting roles, such as becoming a SITE Canada Ambassador. This new responsibility fills me with anticipation as I look forward to fostering connections and sharing insights with incentive professionals across Atlantic Canada. SITE has truly been a catalyst for my growth and development in the industry, and I am eager to continue this journey of learning, networking, and contributing to the vibrant community of incentive travel professionals.

Q: What are you most looking forward to showcasing for SITE members and friends in St. John's, as a member of the SITE Incentive Summit Americas host partner team?

A: As a member of the host partner team for the SITE Incentive Summit Americas in St. John's, I'm particularly excited about showcasing the unique cultural experiences and breathtaking natural landscapes that St. John's has to offer. From the colorful row houses of Jellybean Row to the rugged cliffs and seascapes along the East Coast Trail, there's so much for attendees to discover and enjoy. Additionally, I'm eager to highlight the warm hospitality and vibrant local cuisine that make St. John's a truly unforgettable destination for incentive travel programs.

Q: Why should SITE members consider less "conventional" incentive destinations like St. John's for future programs?

A: Choosing a less conventional incentive destination like St. John's can offer SITE members a range of benefits. Firstly, it provides a unique opportunity for participants to explore new cultures and environments, fostering creativity and inspiration. These destinations often offer a more authentic and immersive experience, allowing attendees to connect more deeply with the destination and its people. Moreover, lesser-known destinations may offer cost savings and fewer crowds, allowing for more personalized and exclusive experiences. Finally, by choosing destinations off the beaten path, SITE members can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, supporting local economies and preserving natural resources.

Q: If you could change one thing about SITE and/or the incentive travel industry right now, what would it be?

A: If I could change one thing about SITE and the incentive travel industry, it would be to place an even greater emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all individuals, regardless of background or identity, feel welcomed and represented within the industry. This includes not only increasing diversity among industry professionals but also ensuring that incentive programs are inclusive and accessible to participants from all walks of life. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, we can create a more vibrant, innovative, and equitable incentive travel industry for all.