Collette Celebrates Women’s History Month by Honoring Women-Owned Businesses & Partners
by Sarah Milner
Amal Women’s Training Center in Morocco. Photo: Collette
Tour operator Collette is shining a spotlight on women-owned and managed businesses featured on its global tours in honor of Women’s History Month.
Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, Collette’s president and CEO, is highlighting these businesses to provide a platform for female entrepreneurs and artisans while giving travelers the opportunity to experience authentic local culture.
“The skills, creativity and leadership of our women-led partners around the world is powerful, and deeply enriches the tour experience of each destination we visit,” said Leibl-Cote.
Collette is celebrating its 107th year, offering over 170 tours worldwide to destinations such as Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, North America and South America.
Some women-owned and managed businesses featured on the 2025 and 2026 tours include:
Kazuri Beads Factory: Nairobi, Kenya – A jeweller that produces high quality, handmade ceramic jewelry and pottery, with a mission to empower disadvantaged women by providing fair wage employment and skills training.
Hood River Lavender Farms: Hood River, Oregon – A woman-owned, fifth-generation family business that producers skin care products.
Ama Hut Satoumian: Japan – A culinary cultural experience where female free divers grill fresh local seafood while sharing stories about their 2,000-year-old diving tradition and community life.
Sheroe’s Hangout: Ranthambore, India – A cafe that aims to empower women who have survived acid attacks while spreading awareness about violence against women in India.
Frantoio Doglia: Tuscany, Italy – A sister-owned company that produces high-quality extra virgin olive oil using traditional and organic methods.
Heritage Tours: Memphis, Tennessee, USA – A Black and women-owned tour company that hosts The Civil Rights City Tour in Memphis, which celebrates Black cotributions to the city’s heritage and culture.
Penduka Village: Namibia – A women-run social enterprise that is dedicated to female empowerment and gender equality.
Amal Women’s Training Center: Morocco – A non-profit organization focused on creating a safe and loving space where women can rewrite their narratives and step into their power.
“We believe travel can be a force for good, by both supporting the vital work of local businesses and deepening cultural awareness and appreciation for our global communities worldwide,” said Leibl-Cote.
