Ten Khiri Travel staff, including 'Green Team’ spokespeople across eight Asian countries, have earned the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism. The endeavour is part of Khiri’s ambition to be a completely GSTC-certified DMC by the end of 2025.
The qualifications were announced early June following a four-week online course and examination run by the Council. Those that passed include six of Khiri’s ‘Green Team’ spokespeople, two general managers, one office manager, and the sustainability coordinator at Khiri Core in head office.
The training course (ST 2503-EN), held between March and April 2025 provided participants with an in-depth understanding of global sustainability standards and how to apply them in day-to-day operations.
The course was led by experts Nia Klatte and Ayako Ezaki, with guest speakers contributing operational insights. Delivered via the TrainingAid platform, the programme featured live sessions, interactive modules and technical discussions. The instruction will help Khiri strengthen its internal sustainability management system in 18 offices in all the eight Asian countries where it operates.
“GSTC training has elevated technical understanding and Khiri’s readiness for certification across the company,” said Sukhum Jarangdej, Sustainability Coordinator at Khiri Core. “It also ensures our local Green Teams are equipped to lead sustainability efforts in meaningful and measurable ways, in practice, not just in theory.”
Each Khiri country office has its own Green Team consisting of volunteer staff who spearhead sustainability projects, support certification initiatives and foster a culture of eco-consciousness across departments.
To receive personal GSTC certification, participants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 80%. The certification is individual based. It can be retained by the recipient as a qualification for the rest of their career.
Khiri’s three remaining general managers and a newly appointed green team spokesperson from Vietnam are now participating in the training course.
Natalie Van Ogtrop (pictured), the sustainability manager for Khiri's parent company, YAANA Ventures, earned the certification earlier this year.
Willem Niemeijer (pictured) the CEO of Khiri Travel said: “The training represents a key milestone as Khiri moves toward overall GSTC certification as a company. We are committed to the 4Cs of Conservation, Community, Culture and responsible Commerce. Khiri will continue to lead by example on positive-impact regenerative tourism throughout Asia.” -TradeArabia News Service
