The certification(s) earned and displayed identify a graduate of The Travel Institute who has demonstrated expertise and an ongoing commitment to their career, consumers, and the travel industry.

Potomac, Maryland

Vivian Yao is the founder of Nature Positive Tours, a travel company dedicated to creating meaningful journeys that benefit travelers, host communities, and the natural world. With a background spanning law, education, public policy, community development, and conservation, she brings a thoughtful, research-driven approach to travel planning. Vivian spent many years in public service as a Montgomery County Council budget and policy analyst. Her lifelong commitment to education and service also includes serving as a co-chair of WETA’s Community Advisory Council, teaching high school English, leading youth development programs, and volunteering at the Smithsonian National Zoo. Through Nature Positive Tours, Vivian brings these experiences together to design thoughtful safaris, cruise and rail journeys, and other travel experiences that connect people with nature and different cultures while promoting sustainability and supporting the restoration of natural ecosystems.