Only a select few have been named as TravelAbility’s Accessibility Superstars. These industry leaders have gone beyond tireless advocacy to complete cultural overhauls. Their efforts have not only transformed policies, practices, and mindsets, but have also inspired global movement towards equitable travel experiences. They have laid a new foundation for an accessible future.
Toni Bastian: Transforming Richmond’s Tourism Landscape
Toni Bastian from Visit Richmond has transformed accessibility from a checklist into a mindset. Under her leadership, Richmond’s tourism culture now embraces accessibility as a core value—from frontline hospitality to strategic planning. Toni’s efforts have enabled local businesses to see accessibility not as an obligation, but as an opportunity to welcome all travelers with dignity and warmth.
Superstar Initiatives:
- Accessible RVA Strategic Plan: A comprehensive plan that integrates accessibility into Richmond’s tourism strategy, ensuring that all visitors have a seamless experience.
- Accessible RVA Champions: A program that trains local businesses to become more accessible, fostering a community-wide culture of understanding and respect.
- Disability Inclusiveness Training: Workshops designed to educate frontline staff about disability etiquette, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Sasha Blair-Goldensohn: Pioneering Accessible Navigation at Google
Sasha Blair-Goldensohn from Google Maps has redefined what it means to build for everyone. His advocacy has sparked systemic change within Google, embedding accessibility into product development, UX design, and global mapping standards. Sasha’s lived experience and relentless drive have helped cultivate a culture where accessibility has been a model for innovation. In addition to mapping accessibility, he’s actively advocating for building accessibility as the voice behind NYC’s commitment to an accessible Metro system.
Superstar Initiatives:
- Wheelchair-Accessible Transit Routes: Because of Sasha, Google Maps offers wheelchair-accessible transit routes in over 20 cities, in addition to widespread accessible walking route options, helping users navigate public transportation with ease.
- Accessibility Icons: Through Sasha, Google Maps added icons indicating which establishments are wheelchair accessible, providing users with essential information at a glance. These icons have been expanded to include accessibility details for all canvassed locations.
- Detailed Voice Guidance: Launched enhanced walking directions for individuals with low or no vision, improving navigation in unfamiliar areas.
- Crowdsourced Accessibility Information: Thanks to Sasha’s efforts, Google Maps now provides crowdsourced accessibility information for more than 50 million places, empowering users to make informed decisions about their travel destinations.
Tami Reist: Championing Accessibility in North Alabama
Tami Reist from North Alabama Mountains and Lakes has championed accessibility across rural tourism with unmatched zeal and creativity. She’s cultivated a regional culture where accessibility is a celebrated value. From training local partners to spotlighting accessible trails and attractions, Tami’s leadership ensures that accessibility is not just an afterthought—it’s proudly visible in every visitor experience.
Superstar Initiatives:
- Accessibility Handheld Guide: Published a print guide on accessible adventures, covering multiple disabilities and including sample itineraries.
- Destination Verified Status: The region earned “Destination Verified” status for accessible travel, marking a significant step forward in inclusive tourism.
- All-Terrain Mobility Device Donation: Through a TVA grant, Tami’s team purchased a state-of-the-art all-terrain hopper and donated it to Joe Wheeler State Park, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to explore rugged trails and scenic landscapes more freely.
- Inclusive Marketing: Launched a new accessibility website alongside hosting disability content creators and sharing multimedia itineraries.
Honoring the Architects of Inclusive Culture
Toni, Sasha, and Tami exemplify the essence of leadership in the realm of accessible tourism. Their unwavering dedication to creating inclusive environments has not only transformed their respective regions but has also set a global standard for what it means to be truly accessible. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded that true accessibility is not merely about removing physical barriers but about fostering a culture of inclusion, empathy, and respect.
To Toni, Sasha, and Tami—thank you for showing us that true accessibility is not just what we build, but how we lead. You are the architects of inclusive culture and we honor you as TravelAbility Superstars.
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