become an RVA

tourism ambassador

I Am Tourism Ambassador Program

Each year, tourism brings billions of visitors to the Richmond Region!  The I Am Tourism Ambassador program, provided by Richmond Region Tourism Foundation, helps participants learn what’s in their own backyard and gain a visitor’s perspective of our region.  It also prepares attendees to represent the Richmond Region at special events and in our communities every day. 

Each session of I Am Tourism Ambassador includes an educational classroom session, an interactive and networking activity, and a custom curated bus tour led by Bill Martin, Executive Director of The Valentine.

Upon completion, attendees receive a certificate of completion, an I Am Tourism Ambassador lapel pin, and access to our digital Greater Richmond Attractions Discovery pass to experience first-hand the many offerings of our vibrant region.  

For additional information about the program, email Deanne Ralston, Community Relations Coordinator at dralston@visitrichmondva.com.

 The I Am Tourism Ambassador Program will:

- Meet industry demand by offering frequent workshops.

- Continue engagement by staying in touch with our graduates through Ambassador-specific updates and communications.

- Offer volunteer opportunities that give Ambassadors the chance to serve as the faces of the region.

- Connect with the business community by offering business-focused I Am Tourism workshops.

- I Am Tourism Ambassador graduates are encouraged to participate in the 6-week I Know Richmond program presented by The Valentine

UPCOMING I AM TOURISM WORKSHOPS

Thursday, November 6th, 2025 (In-person class)

1:00 PM – 5:15 PM at the Jolene Family Winery

REGISTER HERE for the in-person class

This in-person class includes a 90-minute classroom presentation at the Jolene Family Winery, located at 2750 Pocahontas Trail, Quinton, VA 23141, and is followed by a 90-minute guided bus tour of the Richmond Region, led by Bill Martin, Executive Director of the Valentine.

Questions?  Call Deanne Ralston, Community Relations Coordinator at 804-783-7442, or email dralston@visitrichmondva.com.

Each class is limited to four people per organization.  Cancellations must be made at least one working day prior to the event.  Call 804-783-7442 or email dralston@visitrichmondva.com to cancel. Substitutions may be made at any time.

Unable to attend an in person I Am Tourism Ambassador session or looking to experience the course in Spanish?  Click here to access our digital course, I Am Tourism Ambassador Hotel Edition.

 

Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 (In-person class)

1:00 PM – 5:15 PM at the Pamunkey Regional Public Library Atlee Area

REGISTER HERE for the in-person class

This in-person class includes a 90-minute classroom presentation at the Jolene Family Winery, located at 9212 Rutlandshire Drive, Mechanicsville, VA 23116, and is followed by a 90-minute guided bus tour of the Richmond Region, led by Bill Martin, Executive Director of the Valentine.

Questions?  Call Deanne Ralston, Community Relations Coordinator at 804-783-7442, or email dralston@visitrichmondva.com.

Each class is limited to four people per organization.  Cancellations must be made at least one working day prior to the event.  Call 804-783-7442 or email dralston@visitrichmondva.com to cancel. Substitutions may be made at any time.

We are Able to Enhance the Program Because of the Generous Support of our Presenting and Host Sponsors

IAT Sponsors 2025