Description

On behalf of the Highlands County Tourists Development Council (TDC), we would like to invite you to our annual Tourism Awards & Insights Breakfast scheduled for Tuesday, May 12 at the Circle Theater in downtown Sebring. Doors will open at 8:00 a.m. and the program will begin at 8:30 a.m.

First, the Highlands County Tourism Awards will recognize the people behind the experiences. Help us celebrate the dedicated tourism professionals who provide exceptional customer service and ensure our visitors create special memories with their families and friends throughout their time here. Winners in eight categories will be honored for extraordinary service in Highlands County’s tourism sector.

After the awards presentation, attendees will hear from keynote speaker Nerissa Okiye, Tourism Director for Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing and current chair of Destinations Florida.

Okiye will share insights from the award-winning Explore Natural Martin initiative, a program that transformed Martin County’s natural resources into curated experiences for residents and visitors alike. Through creative partnerships, themed eco-experiences, and a connected Eco-Trail system, the initiative has successfully linked waterways, trails, and open spaces to foster exploration while supporting both quality of life and a vibrant visitor economy.

Her presentation will offer practical ideas for how Highlands County can activate its own natural amenities to inspire exploration, strengthen community engagement with local assets, and build a destination that benefits residents and visitors alike.

Breakfast attendees must pre-register no later than May 8.