Founder Voices (Episode 8): Cristina Cruz – Pioneering Sustainable Tourism for People and Planet
In this inspiring episode of Founder Voices, I sit down with Cristina Cruz—sustainable tourism pioneer and founder of Off U Go!. Cristina has led groundbreaking hospitality projects, from Portugal’s first sustainable hotel, Inspira Liberdade (2010), to the award-winning Belo Monte eco-lodge in São Tomé e Príncipe. Her work blends environmental stewardship with community empowerment, proving that tourism can be both profitable and purposeful.
Now based in London, Cristina advises hospitality businesses on embedding sustainability into their strategy while connecting travellers to experiences that positively impact local communities and protect cultural heritage.
This conversation was recorded on Saturday, 28 June 2025.
Founder Voices (Episode 5): Cristina Ruiz, sustainability strategist and humanitarian consultant
In this thought-provoking and globally focused conversation, Cristina Ruiz shares her journey across the worlds of international development, social innovation, and systems change. Drawing on her deep experience in Europe, Africa, and Latin America, Cristina unpacks the realities of driving impact across borders—and why centring equity, collaboration, and local voice is essential.
We explore what it means to challenge traditional power structures, design for inclusion, and reimagine global value chains through a feminist and decolonial lens. Cristina reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her work, the lessons she's still learning, and the role of connection in creating lasting change.
This episode was recorded on Saturday, 28 June 2025