A four-day workshop focused on enhancing the digital skills of women in tourism communities across Southeast Asia was held in Luang Prabang, Laos, from September 24 to 27. Organized by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), the ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), and Laos’ Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the event brought together 28 participants from five countries. The goal was to upskill women in marketing their tourism products to the global market, strengthening their businesses and fostering sustainable community growth.

The workshop covered topics like digital marketing strategies and online promotion for community-based tourism enterprises, including homestays and local tour services. Participants also engaged in field visits to assess real-life digital needs and received training in resource planning and goal setting. Naoko Fujikawa of AJC emphasized the importance of digital skills in connecting local products with international audiences, while Phonemaly Inthaphome of Laos’ Ministry of Tourism highlighted the potential of women to drive innovation and development in their communities.

This initiative aimed to create a ripple effect, empowering women to pass on their digital expertise to others, enhancing resilience and growth across the Greater Mekong Subregion.