Ms. Lizam Dorji, CEO of MICE Bhutan, has been named the 2026 PATA Face of the Future. The award, announced in Kuching, Malaysia, recognises her leadership, innovation, and commitment to sustainable tourism development in the Asia Pacific region.
Dorji leads MICE Bhutan, a subsidiary of Druk Asia, focusing on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. She helps shape the sector’s development, creating economic growth opportunities and international engagement channels.
Before returning to Bhutan, Dorji built over five years of experience in Thailand with the Royal Cliff Hotels Group and Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall. She managed international conferences, United Nations events, and large-scale conventions involving up to 4,000 participants.
Her vision for Bhutan goes beyond business events. She has partnered with the Youth Development Fund to plant 2,664 flowering trees with guests across the country over three years. She also collaborates with the Department of Culture to revitalise three nationally significant museums.
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As the 2026 winner, Dorji will serve on the PATA Board for one year starting in 2027. She aims to bring the perspectives of the next generation of tourism leaders to the Association’s leadership.
Winning this award places Dorji among a select group of young leaders. It highlights a broader trend where the industry increasingly values sustainable practices and community involvement. This shift suggests that future tourism strategies will likely balance economic growth with the preservation of cultural and environmental values.
Recognition for Youth and Innovation
PATA announced the winners alongside four other young professionals recognised for their achievements in key areas of tourism development.
Mr. Abdulla Iyaan Ahmed, former Chair of the PATA Malaysia Taylor’s Student Chapter, received the Special Recognition for Student Excellence.
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Ms. Orawan Dinsor, Team Leader – Travelplan (Latin Markets) at Asian Trails, received the award for Strategic Management.
Ms. Alevtina Borodulina, Lead Heritage Consultant at Aquamarine Projects, received the recognition for Leadership.
Ms. Uyanga Galbadrakh, Co-Founder & CEO of WildMongolia, received the award for Sustainability Initiatives.
The PATA Face of the Future Award has recognised exceptional young professionals since 2002. It serves as the association’s most prestigious honour for emerging leaders in the travel and tourism industry.