Destinations International Opens Applications for “30 Under 30” and “Rising Industry Professionals” Programs
Two signature initiatives expand access to development for early-career destination professionals
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 10, 2025) – Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading resource for destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), yesterday announced that applications are now open for its 2026 30 Under 30 Program and the newly expanded Rising Industry Professionals Program. Both initiatives are designed to strengthen the talent pipeline, foster career advancement and build long-term leadership capacity across the global destination marketing and management industry. Both programs are supported by the DI Foundation.
Entering its 15th year, DI’s 30 Under 30 Program identifies and elevates high-performing destination professionals by providing year-long mentorship, exclusive leadership training and recognition. Honorees gain access to senior leaders, specialized education at the DI Annual Convention and year-round engagement opportunities that accelerate professional growth.
“Our industry’s success relies on developing a workforce that is prepared, passionate and representative of the communities we serve,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “The 30 Under 30 Program is one of our most visible commitments to advancing talent in the industry, and we are proud to see it continue to grow in impact and scope each year. We thank SearchWide Global for being the founding partner of the program.”
The Rising Industry Professionals Program provides similar mentorship, leadership training and recognition to early career professionals at DI partner organizations. Formerly known as the “Young Leader Professionals Development Program” Rising Industry Professionals has expanded access to any partner tier.
“Developing a dynamic and sustainable workforce means meeting professionals where they are in their journey,” said Sophia Hyder Hock, Chief Impact Officer at Destinations International. “By expanding the Rising Industry Professionals Program to all partners, we are creating more pathways for talent to build confidence, develop critical skills and feel a sense of belonging in our industry.”
Applications for both programs are now open and will be accepted online through January 20, 2026.
Application Details
- 30 Under 30 Program: Open to professionals 30 years of age or younger as of January 20, 2026. Applicants must work for a DI member organization for at least 18 months and be in their role for one year at the time of application. Only one individual from an organization will be chosen if multiple applications from the same organization are submitted. More information and an application form is available online.
- Rising Industry Professionals Program: Open to professionals 30 years of age or younger of age or younger as of January 20, 2026. Applicants must work for a DI partner organization for at least 18 months and in their role for one year at the time of application. Only one individual from an organization will be chosen if multiple applications from the same organization are submitted. More information and an application form is available online.
Tim Smith is a strategic communications leader with over 20 years of experience across government, industry, agency, and association sectors. He has held senior roles at Delaware North, APCO Worldwide, and Edelman, and served abroad as a U.S. diplomat promoting trade and investment. As Vice President of Communications, he leads strategy to elevate brand, support the association’s mission, and engage global stakeholders. Tim is active in civic and professional organizations and has served on multiple boards. He lives outside Buffalo, New York, with his wife and has three grown children.