1) Can you briefly introduce yourself and describe your role in relation to the Access Nature Program or the broader tourism sector in Lebanon?

My name is Marie-Gabrielle Tyan Corm. I am the executive director of EQUAL, a Lebanese NGO dedicated to empowering visually impaired individuals through education, advocacy, and inclusive programming. Within the Access Nature Program, my role centers on ensuring that Lebanon’s natural and cultural sites become accessible and welcoming to the blind and visually impaired community.

I lead initiatives that provide guided nature experiences, adapted tools such as audio descriptions, and capacity-building input for guides on inclusive practices. By focusing on the needs and potential of VI individuals, I work to break down barriers to participation in ecotourism and outdoor recreation.

Through our work, EQUAL is not only increasing access for the visually impaired but also fostering a broader understanding in Lebanese society of the importance of inclusion in the tourism sector. My work aims to create a more equitable model of tourism—one where all individuals, regardless of visual ability, have the opportunity to connect with nature and fully participate in cultural life.

2) What motivated your involvement in the field of accessible or inclusive tourism?

I was motivated to engage in accessible and inclusive tourism through my close personal relationships with my visually impaired sister and her friends. Witnessing the barriers they faced—not only in education and work, but also in daily and social activities—deeply shaped my understanding of exclusion and the urgent need for accessibility in all areas of life.

My commitment to inclusive tourism is rooted in my broader goal: to empower visually impaired individuals to lead independent, dignified lives—at home, at work, and in society. I believe that access to nature and culture is not a luxury but a right, and that creating inclusive spaces is essential to social justice.

3) How would you describe your experience with the Access Nature Program organized by
LMTA?

My experience with the Access Nature Program organized by LMTA has been incredibly meaningful, especially in the way it actively involved visually impaired individuals in naturebased activities. What made the program stand out was its commitment to true inclusion—not just in theory, but in practice.

One of the most significant features was the use of directional bars along the trail. These bars served as a guiding system, allowing visually impaired participants to move safely and independently through the natural setting. It was a simple yet powerful tool that transformed the trail into an accessible space, helping participants build confidence and enjoy a sense of autonomy.

Seeing visually impaired individuals explore nature—many for the first time—was profoundly moving. It reminded us of all that with thoughtful design and collaboration, nature can and should be accessible to everyone.

Overall, the program strengthened my belief that inclusive tourism in Lebanon is not only possible, but essential. It also reinforced our mission at EQUAL: to create environments where visually impaired people are empowered to participate fully in all aspects of life, including recreation and connection with nature.