Europe's Voice of Tourism

Stefan Pettersson: A Positive Rebel that Empowers Sustainable Destination, and Business Development.

“If you are going to rebel, do it with purpose”.

In the ever-changing world of the tourism industry, where sustainability and long-term development are crucial, My aim is to stand out as a true pioneer in guiding destinations and companies towards a brighter future. That helps me to try new methods, a new way of thinking and of course new digital tools.

Allow me to introduce myself, Stefan Pettersson. I am the co-founder of Gameng– the Positive Rebel Agency, and an executive brand strategist with over 35 years of experience in travel. With a rebellious mindset, I believe I challenge the status quo, empowering destinations, and organizations to thrive in times of change.

To dare describe myself (or anyone) as a positive rebel I think the following skills are important:

A Unique Approach to Destination-, and Business Development: I believe that a rare combination of creativity, strategic thinking and an abundance mindset are needed.

Rebellious Problem-Solving: Embracing a rebellious approach to problem-solving, Challenge conventional methods through corkscrew thinking. I am convinced that traditional approaches may not always work in today’s dynamic world. By thinking differently and embracing new technologies, I disrupt established processes, seeking innovative solutions that drive positive change.

Empowering People and Communities: Recognizing that a destination is not just a place, but a living entity shaped by its people it very important. So many projects have been stalled because there hasn’t been any true dialogue with all stakeholders.

–  Our mission with Gameng, is to empower individuals and communities. By actively involving locals and valuing their voices, I ensure that development initiatives are inclusive and sustainable, benefiting both residents and visitors.

Harnessing Innovative Tools: In our projects, we seek to leverage cutting-edge tools to facilitate interactive workshops and seminars, both in-person and remotely. Using AI (Artificial Intelligence), Zoom, Miro, and Mentimeter, among others, I create engaging experiences for participants. These tools break down geographical barriers, foster collaboration, unleash creativity, and ensure effective communication.

Here are five practical tips from Stefan on combining Corkscrew thinking and AI for sustainable tourism:

  1. Think differently with AI: Break free from traditional approaches and use AI technology to discover fresh opportunities. AI-powered analytics provide insights into customer behaviour, market trends, and environmental impact, helping you generate innovative ideas and prioritize sustainability.
  2. Personalize guest experiences: Utilize AI, such as machine learning and natural language processing, to personalize recommendations and create unique itineraries. Suggest eco-friendly activities and promote responsible travel choices that align with sustainability, enhancing the guest experience.
  • Optimize resource allocation: Leverage AI-powered systems to analyze energy consumption, water usage, and waste management. Identify areas for improvement, adopt eco-friendly practices, and minimize your environmental footprint to save resources and reduce costs.
  • Make informed decisions: Combine Corkscrew thinking with AI data analysis to make smarter decisions. AI algorithms process large amounts of data, offering insights into customer preferences, market trends, and environmental impact. Adapt your strategies to align with sustainability and stay ahead of the curve.
  • Foster collaboration and innovation: Embrace AI-powered platforms for collaboration among stakeholders. Use tools that promote knowledge-sharing and problem-solving. By leveraging diverse perspectives and AI-driven tools, foster innovation and create sustainable tourism initiatives benefiting the industry, communities, and the environment.

Combine Corkscrew thinking with AI to unlock possibilities for sustainable tourism. Embrace new ideas, personalize experiences, optimize resources, make informed decisions, and foster collaboration to drive positive change in the industry and create a sustainable future.

Conclusion: Stefan Pettersson, the co-founder of Gameng, is a true trailblazer in facilitating sustainable destination development. With his rebellious mindset and expertise in the travel industry, he disrupts traditional processes and finds innovative solutions. By utilizing tools like AI, Zoom, Miro, and Mentimeter, Stefan and his partner create dynamic workshops and seminars that transcend geographical limitations. As a leader in his field, Stefan’s profound impact empowers individuals and communities while driving positive change in the tourism industry. With his unwavering vision and dedication, he continues to shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for destinations worldwide.

Don’t miss the webinar on June 20th (NEW DATE): David vs. Goliath- The effective use of AI for small Tourism Business firms.