Victoria leads BVK’s travel practice, specializing in cultural and consumer trends that shape the industry. With a passion for bold problem-solving, she has dedicated her career to marketing travel experiences that enhance lives, build communities, sustain the environment, and drive societal progress. Victoria excels at blending science and art to transform research insights into groundbreaking work for brands across the travel sector, from destinations like Travel Wyoming and the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism to renowned hotels like The Broadmoor and Legendary Hotels.
Maria Sheetz is Senior Director of Media Solutions at Amadeus Hospitality, supporting DMOs and state tourism offices in the U.S. and Canada with research data and digital marketing solutions. Previously, she was Senior Director of Partner Development at Brand USA, managing partnerships to drive inbound international travel. Maria also held leadership roles at Choice Hotels International, bringing extensive experience in tourism and hospitality marketing.
Brian Applegarth is the founder of the Cannabis Travel Association and Applegarth Strategies, a marketing consultancy focused on cannabis tourism. His expertise engages cannabis travelers to drive growth and ROI, earning recognition from the US Travel ESTO Awards, Visit California Poppy Awards, Clio Awards, and IAFE Awards. Brian is the sole advisor on the first US research into the cannabis travel audience and leads the Cannabis & Hemp work groups for Destinations International and the California Travel Association.
Gathan D. Borden is a seasoned tourism marketer with over 18 years of experience helping destinations tell their stories through data, creativity, and strategy. As Client Relationships & Insights Manager at Tourism Economics, he works with destination organizations across North America to synthesize data and translate insights into action. A thought leader in travel, marketing, and economic development, Gathan has led award-winning campaigns, served on industry boards, and regularly speaks at national conferences.
Amelia Lincoln has a background in destination marketing & event management, including six years with the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau (Love Catalina). She holds a master’s degree in Tourism Marketing from the University of Surrey. A native of CT, she currently resides in Arizona, where she enjoys spending time with her family outdoors & traveling.