As a Destination Development Officer at the Culinary Tourism Alliance, a national not-for-profit organization, I work at the intersection of tourism strategy, cultural insight, and community development—helping destinations imagine futures that are economically resilient, culturally grounded, and deeply connected to place. I have contributed to the delivery of more than $1.5M in destination development services, managing a diverse portfolio of strategic initiatives for municipal, provincial, Indigenous, and international partners.
For me, destination development is not about increasing visitation for its own sake. It is about understanding how tourism can strengthen communities, support local food systems, honour cultural identity, and create opportunities that endure long after a visitor has returned home. I approach this work with the belief that the most meaningful strategies are rooted in evidence, shaped by community priorities, and implemented in collaboration with the people who call a place home.
Beyond individual projects, I contribute to broader conversations about the role of tourism in community and economic development. I serve in advisory and leadership capacities, collaborate with post-secondary partners, and represent the sector in public forums, helping shape the future of culinary and agritourism in Canada. These opportunities allow me to advocate for tourism models that prioritize cultural integrity, environmental stewardship, and long-term resilience.
If you are interested in exploring community-led tourism development, destination strategy, or approaches grounded in partnership and place-based insight, I would be glad to connect.
Learn more about my work at the Culinary Tourism Alliance here.
Shayan Lallani, PhD 