Dee Gibson
2023 Fellow
VV Visionaries
Focus Areas
As a designer and founder of a hotel in Sri Lanka, Dee Gibson believes that design-conscious travelers must choose destinations that combine experiential travel with tangible social impact. Kalukanda House supports a women’s charity, targeting travelers wanting an ethical route to luxury travel. Dee believes that hoteliers must participate in the community, build sustainably and provide opportunities for travelers and locals to connect; creating bonds that foster empathy and understanding on all sides.
Dee lives in London where she spent 10 years in finance before setting up a design studio 20 years ago. She is also Deputy Chair and Trustee of a charity, a mentor, and a regular speaker for the British Institute of Interior Design.
“As a visionary leader, I aspire to change the way we travel by supporting local communities and enabling higher education and financial independence for underprivileged women and girls in Sri Lanka.”