TravelManagers has revealed the closing session of its 2026 National Conference in Hobart will feature an intimate fireside chat with journalist Cheng Lei and Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert, two women who forged an extraordinary bond after separately enduring unlawful imprisonment on foreign soil.
Michael Gazal, TravelManagers Executive General Manager, said the session was a fitting conclusion to a conference themed around connection.
“Cheng’s and Kylie’s journeys serve as powerful testament to resilience, courage and the enduring importance of human connection, reminding us of what truly matters, both in business and in life. We feel incredibly privileged to conclude our 2026 conference with a conversation that is sure to stay with our attendees long after the conference has ended,” Mr Gazal said.
Ms Lei worked as China correspondent for CNBC for nine years before being detained by Chinese authorities on suspicion of espionage. After more than three years in detention she was released and reunited with her family in Australia, where she has continued her career in journalism.
Dr Moore-Gilbert is an expert in Middle East history and politics who was arrested and convicted of espionage in Iran, receiving a ten-year sentence. Since her release she has been a vocal human rights advocate, campaigning in support of victims of arbitrary detention around the world.
The 2026 National Conference takes place in Hobart from August 18 to 20.
