portia hart
With dual nationality (British-Trinidadian) and having lived, studied and worked in England, Scotland, Japan, France, Monaco and Colombia, I have a truly international outlook - personally, professionally and academically.
In Cartagena as an entrepreneur, I have created the places I want to go to myself - a blend of local, international, fun, luxurious and creative, as well as responsible towards the environment and local people.
As a member of society, seeing both the social inequality around me and the environmental impact of unchecked tourism, I have grown passionate about the incorporation of sustainable and regenerative practices into our operations, so that our tourism is a source of growth, not force of destruction.
My energy, combined with my experiences and skills, has positioned me as an active innovator within the industry, a hands-on manager and a thought leader. Through Manzana Azul, I provide consultancy services enabling the practical and accessible application of environmentally and socially sustainable methodologies in our sector. I am also a regular speaker at conferences and volunteer for non-profits enabling better tourism.
Current consultancy & volunteer roles
Regenerative Travel
Standard Bearer
Regenerative Travel is a benefit corporation and sales platform promoting a global collection of independent hotels dedicated to operating not only sustainably, but regeneratively, with regards to social and environmental well-being. As Standard Bearer I define and maintain membership criteria, share and promote best practices.
The Conscious Travel Foundation
Mentor
A UK based collaboration aiming to make travel a force for good, The Conscious Travel Foundation was established to reinforce the positive impact of the travel industry and inspire a more meaningful, intentional way of exploring the world. As a mentor, I advise members and the founders on best practice.
Recent Speaking engagements
REGENERATIVE TRAVEL SUMMIT
How Regeneration, Environmental, and Social Equality Are Connected.
TL TALKS
Preserving while promoting a destination.
MATTER 2019
Collaboration not competition: Why the industry needs to work together for positive change
THE LONG RUN
Scaling up waste management and recycling