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Breaking Barriers: How Sonia Figueredo Jovani is Transforming Dominican Republic Tourism with Sustainable Travel



Sonia Figueredo Jovani is a trailblazer in the world of sustainable tourism. With a passion for protecting the environment and preserving local cultures, she founded Tour impact, a tourism company dedicated to responsible and eco-friendly travel. Through her relentless efforts, Sonia has become an advocate for educating travelers and communities on the importance of sustainability, making her a leading figure in the global movement for a more conscious way to explore the world.


A Dreamer with a Vision

Sonia Figueredo Jovani’s journey began with a deep love for nature and travel. From an early age, she was captivated by the beauty of different landscapes and cultures, but her travels also exposed her to the harmful effects of mass tourism. Determined to make a difference, Sonia decided to pursue a career that would combine her passion for travel with her desire to protect the environment.


Facing Challenges in a Foreign Land

Sonia’s commitment to her cause led her to the Dominican Republic, where she saw firsthand the devastating impacts of unchecked tourism. Moving to a new country came with its own set of challenges—cultural differences, skepticism, and the isolation of being far from home. But Sonia’s resolve only grew stronger, fueled by her belief in the power of change.

Building Tourimpact: A Sustainable Vision


In 2019, Sonia launched Tourimpact, a company focused on promoting sustainable tourism practices. It wasn’t easy at first; convincing tourists and locals to adopt eco-friendly behaviors was met with resistance. But Sonia’s passion and persistence slowly began to shift mindsets, one conversation at a time.


Educating for Change

Understanding the power of education, Sonia implemented workshops and awareness campaigns for both travelers and local communities. She taught them how sustainable tourism can protect their natural resources and cultural heritage. Her efforts empowered locals to become active participants in safeguarding their environment, ensuring that future generations could continue to thrive.


Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Success

The journey was filled with hurdles, from limited resources to slow adoption of sustainable practices. However, Sonia’s determination was unwavering. As Tourimpact grew, so did its influence. Travelers started embracing responsible tourism, and local businesses began to see the value in sustainability, ultimately contributing to Sonia’s success.


International Recognition

By 2024, Sonia’s pioneering work caught the world’s attention. She was honored with the International Entrepreneur Women Award for her transformative impact on tourism. This milestone solidified her place as a leader in the industry and further expanded the reach of her sustainable tourism initiatives.


Leading the Future of Tourism

Today, Sonia collaborates with governments, businesses, and international organizations to push forward the agenda of sustainable tourism. Her work includes creating eco-friendly travel programs, promoting green transportation, and supporting community-based tourism. Through her leadership, she is shaping a future where travel benefits both people and the planet.


A Legacy of Change

Sonia Figueredo Jovani’s story is one of dedication and hope. Her vision for a better, more responsible form of tourism has not only changed the way people travel but has also inspired communities to protect their own land. Her legacy stands as a testament to the idea that one person’s vision can change the world for the better.


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