TOTA News Centre
Stay informed about the latest TOTA News, Industry News, Resources, Biosphere, and upcoming events.
Latest Updates
go2HR is offering a two-part virtual workshop series, THRIVE: Fostering Psychological Health & Safety, designed to help tourism and hospitality leaders strengthen their leadership skills and support well-being in the workplace.
The Culinary Tourism Alliance will develop and lead the delivery of two different 1-hour webinars. These sessions will be tailored specifically for South Okanagan orchardists and fruit stand operators, focusing on enhancing visitor experiences and digital readiness.
Rainbow Registered is hosting an online information session for tourism businesses and organizations interested in creating more inclusive and welcoming experiences for 2SLGBTQI+ visitors, employees and communities.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association board director election resulted in a 3-way tie. The electronic run-off election closed on Friday, October 23 and results were reviewed by the scrutineer.
The successful candidate is Savannah Swaisland, Grape Savvy Wine Tours.
New and returning directors bring diverse tourism industry experience and regional perspectives to support the future of tourism in the Thompson Okanagan.
Ellen Walker-Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), will retire on May 30, 2027. Her career has included more than 16 years with TOTA and prior to that worked more than three decades in the hotel industry.
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TOTA Updates
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association board director election resulted in a 3-way tie. The electronic run-off election closed on Friday, October 23 and results were reviewed by the scrutineer.
The successful candidate is Savannah Swaisland, Grape Savvy Wine Tours.
New and returning directors bring diverse tourism industry experience and regional perspectives to support the future of tourism in the Thompson Okanagan.
Ellen Walker-Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), will retire on May 30, 2027. Her career has included more than 16 years with TOTA and prior to that worked more than three decades in the hotel industry.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre reopens May 13, following a major renovation that expands accessibility, deepens partnerships with the Syilx, Nlaka'pamux, and Secwépemc Peoples, and introduces a more welcoming and inclusive arrival experience, anchored by a striking, fully refreshed design that elevates the Centre’s look and feel.
The TOTA Marketing and Communications Team in collaboration with Destination BC hosted a group of top tier international media in the Thompson Okanagan to showcase the Okanagan Valley and Destination BC’s new branding, Valleys and Vineyards
The TOTA Marketing and Communications Team attended Destination Canada’s GoMedia Conference and had the opportunity to host a GoMedia Pre FAM in collaboration with Destination BC.
Regional Updates
TOTA Newsletters
Read the latest industry updates from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from July 20, 2026.
Read the latest industry updates from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from June 1, 2026.
Read the latest industry updates from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from March 30, 2026
Read the latest industry updates from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from March 12, 2026
Read the latest industry updates from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from February 3, 2026
Biosphere
Resources
go2HR is offering a two-part virtual workshop series, THRIVE: Fostering Psychological Health & Safety, designed to help tourism and hospitality leaders strengthen their leadership skills and support well-being in the workplace.
The Culinary Tourism Alliance will develop and lead the delivery of two different 1-hour webinars. These sessions will be tailored specifically for South Okanagan orchardists and fruit stand operators, focusing on enhancing visitor experiences and digital readiness.
Industry Events
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Ben Klick Live
Ben Klick will be preforming live on Saturday May 16 from 12 - 2 PM at Veterans Memorial Square in Summerland at Push for Your Tush