Payten Slack is a first-generation college student from Orlando, Florida, and a junior at NYU’s School of Professional Studies, majoring in Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism Management with a concentration in Travel and Tourism Development. She is an active member of her school’s community and puts an emphasis on ensuring students are being well-represented on a university-wide level. Payten has gained hands-on experience through her role as a Professional Development intern at Destinations International and is committed to merging academic knowledge with real-world applications to better prepare the future workforce.

With a knack for witty language and eye-catching copy, Kasey Pooley researches, writes, and edits engaging content about destination marketing organizations — creating compelling press releases, case studies, articles, and more. She is also Simpleview's social media guru, responsible for content creation, design, and posting on all social media platforms. 

Kristin McGrath, Executive Director of the Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau since April 2022, brings over 25 years of tourism industry experience in destination management, sales, and marketing. She previously held leadership roles at Visit Albuquerque, Richmond Region Tourism, and the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. A Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) since 2010, McGrath has served in several volunteer leadership roles with Destinations International.

Louisa Mariki is a philanthropic and program management professional with over 10 years of experience in strategic program design and administration. Through her lived experience, she brings an awareness and ability to operationalize equitable and inclusive cultures, practices, and systems in a collaborative manner to reduce barriers while centering impact. Her diverse background includes roles in education, philanthropy, international development, and tourism reflecting her passion for catalytic economic development.

Victoria Clarke, CEO of Tourism Mississauga, is a renowned leader in tourism with notable awards including the Trailblazers and Innovators Award (2019) and Seatrade’s Global Cruise Marketing Initiative of the Year (2018). She holds a BA from Dalhousie University and a CDME designation from Destinations International, where she serves on the accreditation board. Passionate about showcasing Mississauga’s cultural vibrancy, Victoria blends her career with philanthropy, supporting various causes and organizations. Outside of work, she is a dedicated community member, lifelong learner, avid kayaker, and mother.