Lizam Dorji from Bhutan Named PATA Face of the Future 2026
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced Ms. Lizam Dorji, CEO of MICE Bhutan (A subsidiary of Druk Asia), as the Grand Winner of the 2026 PATA Face of the Future Award, recognising her leadership, innovation and commitment to shaping a more meaningful and sustainable future for tourism.
Grand Winner
- Ms. Lizam Dorji, CEO of MICE Bhutan (Druk Asia), was named the Grand Winner.
- Recognised for her leadership in developing Bhutan’s MICE sector (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions), she’s creating opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism.
- She will serve on the PATA Board in 2027, representing youth perspectives.
- Her initiatives include:
- Planting 2,664 flowering trees with guests (partnership with Youth Development Fund).
- Revitalising three nationally significant museums with Bhutan’s Department of Culture.
- Dorji said: “Tourism can be a powerful catalyst for positive change… we aim to reflect Bhutan’s philosophy of sustainability and Gross National Happiness.”
Special Recognition Recipients
- Abdulla Iyaan Ahmed (Maldives) – Student Excellence
- Leadership in PATA Malaysia Taylor’s Student Chapter, organising youth symposiums and conservation projects.
- Orawan Dinsor (Thailand) – Strategic Management
- Leads Latin markets at Asian Trails, managing 1,000+ Spanish travellers monthly.
- Alevtina Borodulina (Russia) – Leadership
- Heritage consultant, worked with indigenous Bidayuh community in Sarawak on cultural tourism frameworks.
- Uyanga Galbadrakh (Mongolia) – Sustainability Initiatives
- Co-founder of WildMongolia, empowering nomadic families, supporting conservation (including orphaned bear cubs).
Why It Matters
Since 2002, the PATA Face of the Future Award has been the association’s most prestigious honour for emerging leaders in Asia-Pacific tourism. The 2026 cohort reflects:
- Innovation in sustainable tourism
- Youth leadership across diverse markets
- Commitment to cultural preservation and community empowerment
This year saw a record number of applications, highlighting the growing talent pool shaping the future of tourism.
