The Global Destination Sustainability Movement has announced the winners of the 2026 GDS-Awards, recognising destinations and individuals advancing sustainability, regeneration and positive impact across tourism and business events.
Revealed during the GDS-Awards Ceremony at the GDS-Forum and Impact Day in Szczecin, Poland, the 2026 winners span three categories: Innovation, Impact and the new Changemaker Award.
Fanny Beaulieu Cormier of Tourisme Montréal received the first Changemaker Award, recognising her contribution to regenerative destination development. The Impact Award (assessed by an expert panel including Boardroom’s Vicky Koffa), delivered in collaboration with #MEET4IMPACT, went to Fáilte Ireland for its business events impact and legacy programme. The Innovation Award was presented to Gdansk Tourism Organization for its “Nothing about us without us” initiative, which uses accessibility audits and communication cards to support inclusive destination change.
Guy Bigwood, CEO of GDS-Movement, said the winners “exemplify the bold leadership and innovation required to transform tourism and events globally.” He added that the new Changemaker Award was created to recognise individuals driving transformation for communities, partnerships and people.
Geneviève Leclerc, Co-founder and CEO of #MEET4IMPACT, said the Impact Award sets a benchmark for the sector, recognising initiatives that deliver “real, measurable change that benefits all.”