Q: What was your first job and what did you learn from it that you still use today?
A: As a teenager, I was a dance teacher for younger kids in my small hometown. This taught me patience, the importance of clear communication and why it’s essential to show up with passion – whether you’re guiding a preschooler through their first time on stage or pitching bold campaign ideas.
I also learned that people do their best when they feel supported and seen. I do miss finishing my day with a game of musical statues… turns out, that’s not quite as acceptable after a long day in the office (though I’ve been tempted to try).
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: I’m naturally super curious, so like many people I’d say I start by asking thoughtful questions to get the lay of the land – whether it’s about the product, the brand, or the people who make it all happen.
I think of its kind of like building a great trip itinerary: you begin with the key landmarks to get your bearings, then dig deeper to discover the hidden gems.
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel now?
A: This industry rewards curiosity, adaptability and a strong sense of purpose. Show up hungry to learn and say yes to roles and opportunities that allow you to bring your whole self into the mix.
Q: If you hadn’t gone into travel, what career path might you have taken?
A: I was dangerously close to studying geology or environmental science. I’ve always been a bit obsessed with all the wild ways our Earth works and I think I would have loved a life of leading tours up lava fields and nerding out over rock formations.
Even though I didn’t end up in that field, I still like to do my bit by championing sustainable travel and promoting experiences that inspire others to appreciate the wonders of our planet.
Q: How do you think the travel industry is looking at this moment in time?
A: It feels like we’re in a bit of a recalibration era. More travellers are choosing to travel with intention – valuing quality over quantity and connection over convenience.
It’s a bit messy and uncertain as the industry adjusts, but that’s exactly where creativity and fresh ideas are born.
I’m optimistic because the travel world is finally waking up to the responsibility it carries and that feels like the start of something I’m excited to be a part of.
Q: Who would you most like to sit next to on a plane, living or dead?
A: If I’m steering away from the very predictable (but honest) answer of David Attenborough, I’d have to say Dame Julie Andrews. I just know she’d have the most charming stories and probably a great skincare routine for long-haul flights.
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world?
A: Sri Lanka was a recent standout. I travelled for two weeks and then worked remotely for a week in Weligama – the food, the people, the energy… absolutely unbeatable.
And then there’s Mozambique (above), which completely won me over with its turquoise waters, laid-back rhythm and some of the best seafood I’ve ever had. Give me fresh crab cooked over a fire by the beach and I’m in my element.
Oh, and Portugal. That coastline! Unreal. I’d go back in a heartbeat.
Q: What is your best travel story?
A: I think one of my most memorable and life-changing trips was my 21st birthday adventure to the USA – which I went on just three days after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Nothing like a brand new autoimmune condition to add a bit of drama to your pre-flight checklist. That trip was the first real proof that I could live (and travel) with a chronic illness.
I hiked into the Grand Canyon, waded through the Narrows in Zion, shed a tear over seeing bears in Yosemite, and partied in Vegas (it was my birthday after all!).
It taught me to plan differently but not dream any smaller.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about working with Adventure World?
A: There’s something pretty special about being part of a brand that truly walks the talk on responsible travel and I’m energised by the chance to help amplify that.
I’ll be championing Adventure World’s ethical partnerships and tourism board collaborations, and I’m excited to take on a new challenge beyond my roots in the touring sector.
I’m also really looking forward to learning from the brilliant minds around me – leaders like Liz Glover and Neil Rodgers, who bring such heart, vision and originality to everything they do.
