Visit Temecula Valley (VTV) is pleased to announce that Vanessa Mata, the organization’s marketing manager, will be recognized by the California Travel Association (CalTravel) at its annual 30 & Under Emerging Leader Awards. The ceremony will take place in October at the annual CalTravel Summit in North Lake Tahoe, California.
CalTravel serves as a unified voice for California’s tourism industry. The 30 & Under Emerging Leader Award recognizes multiple member individuals, 30 years old or under, who have contributed, through their individual efforts, to the promotion of travel, tourism, and hospitality in California. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated the skills, talents, attitudes, and initiative that are the hallmarks of emerging leaders.
A Temecula native, Mata's strong connection to her hometown drew her back after she completed her studies at UC Santa Cruz. She returned with a clear vision, seeing a growing hospitality industry and an opportunity to contribute to the community where she grew up.
As part of her role as marketing manager for Visit Temecula Valley, Mata serves as social media strategist and content creator. With a keen personal interest in wine and wine production, she earned WSET Level II certification last year.
"Vanessa's recognition is a testament to her incredible talent and drive,” said Scott A. Wilson, CEO of Visit Temecula Valley. “Her creative vision and innovative use of marketing and social media have not only elevated the Visit Temecula Valley brand but have also helped drive tourism to our region. We're extremely proud to see her recognized as an emerging leader in the industry."
The full list of 2025 CalTravel Award winners can be found here.
About California Travel Association
California Travel Association (CalTravel) is the influential, unified advocacy voice for the travel and tourism industry in California. It protects and advances the interests and investments of California’s travel industry through advocacy, collaboration, and education. For more information visit www.caltravel.org.
About Visit Temecula Valley
Visit Temecula Valley (VTV) is a nonprofit 501 (c)(6) destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting tourism-related businesses including wineries, restaurants, breweries, retail and specialty boutiques, hotels, short-term rentals, and more. It is a popular Southern California destination that includes Temecula Valley Wine Country, Old Town Temecula, and Pechanga Resort Casino. For more information go to: http://www.visittemeculavalley.com.