Q: What was your first job and what did you learn from it that you still use today?
A: My first job was as a live-in nanny in Holland after finishing school. At the time, I had never been overseas. I found myself with a very demanding family – successful and particular about everything.
I had to adapt quickly, be intuitive to their needs and learn to navigate unfamiliar environments with confidence. That experience taught me resilience, adaptability and the importance of reading the room.
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: I focus on understanding what success looks like in the role from the business’s perspective. I ask a lot of questions and observe closely. The faster you grasp what drives the business, the quicker you can contribute meaningfully.
I also prioritise building relationships with key stakeholders and identifying team members I can lean on for support and collaboration.
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel now?
A: Go for it! Say yes to opportunities and invest in building your network. If possible, spend time with thought leaders in the industry.
Travel has been an incredibly rewarding career for me, I’ve met some of the brightest business minds, most inspiring individuals and made lifelong friends along the way.
Q: If you hadn’t gone into travel, what career path might you have taken?
A: Psychology. I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind, behaviour and how the brain works.
Q: How do you think the cruise industry is looking at this moment in time?
A: The outlook for the cruise industry is exceptionally promising. There’s significant room for growth and innovation, especially with a large portion of the Australian and New Zealand population yet to experience cruising as a holiday option.
As awareness and interest continue to build, we’re entering an exciting phase of opportunity and expansion. It’s a fantastic time to be part of this dynamic and evolving sector.
Q: Who would you most like to sit next to on a plane, living or dead?
A: Nelson Mandela. Growing up in South Africa during apartheid, I witnessed the profound impact of his leadership.
His ability to lead with grace, forgive without bitterness and unite a divided nation was extraordinary. He embodied true leadership.
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world and why?
A: Cape Town. Nothing beats flying into the city with Table Mountain and the ocean in view. It’s one of the friendliest cities in the world.
Bay of Islands, New Zealand. I love spending holidays at our family ‘bach’ there. It’s all about relaxing and unwinding.
Croatia. One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.
South of France. I’ve always felt very at home there!
Q: What is your best travel story?
A: Years ago, I worked on a farm in the UK for six weeks. We stayed in tents and one day I was bitten by a spider hiding in my jeans. I became really ill and let’s just say I haven’t been a fan of camping since!
Q: What are you most looking forward to about working with Helloworld Travel?
A: I’m absolutely thrilled to step into this newly created role within such an esteemed and established business.
Being part of the cruise team where everyone is so passionate about the product vertical is incredibly inspiring.
I’m excited about what we can achieve together and the impact we can make in this space.
