Embrace the Inclusive Spirit 2026 seminar

Are you a tourism business that is missing out on disabled visitors?

Belfast City Council in partnership with Visit Belfast, Tourism NI, Titanic Belfast and Open Arts is organising an event for Belfast-based tourism businesses and organisations.

The half-day event will equip businesses with practical tools and insights to grow their disabled visitor market and create exceptional inclusive experiences.

Jamie Shields, co-founding director of Disabled by Society will host the seminar. Jamie brings lived experience as an Autistic, ADHD and registered blind advocate committed to breaking down the barriers in society that people with a disability face.

Jamie will be joined by special guests:

• Comedian Emer Maguire, who will share her signature blend of incisive humour and heartfelt insight into life and travel as an Autistic adult.
• Cathelijne Denekamp, accessibility and inclusion manager at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Cathelijne has helped transform how visitors of all abilities experience the Rijksmuseum. Cathelijne will share practical ideas and proven strategies for creating environments where everyone feels welcomed, valued and able to fully enjoy their visit.
• Judith Owens, CEO of TBL International, which owns Titanic Belfast, SS Nomadic and the Titanic Exhibition Centre. Judith has led Titanic Belfast to global recognition, including the title of World's Leading Tourist Attraction in 2016.
• Darren Murphy, long-standing member of Open Arts, a charity that engages disabled people in high-quality arts. 

Awards

As part of Belfast's Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Programme, the Inclusive Tourism Awards will also take place at the seminar. The Awards will celebrate the work Belfast's tourism industry does to welcome disabled visitors.

Event details

• Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
• Time: 9am - 2pm
• Location: Titanic Belfast
• Cost: Free

Book your place at the seminar.

First published 29 January 2026