Applications for the highly anticipated Future Leaders in
Travel are now open. The event, tailored to travel advisors 40 and under and
global travel suppliers, will take place in Riviera Maya, Mexico, from August
25–28 at Hotel El Dorado Royale, a Lomas Hospitality property.
Future Leaders in Travel, powered by TravelAge West, is
unlike any other event, dedicated to connecting standout buyers and sellers. “One
reason this event is such a success is because of how deeply engaged,
supportive and aligned our attendees are, which boils down to our careful
selection process,” said Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West. “My
top tip for applications is to make sure you clearly demonstrate your
dedication to grow as an advisor through pursuing education, creating powerful
business relationships and sharing your own talents and expertise.”
During the four-day event, advisors and suppliers will build
authentic relationships through collaborative content sessions, one-on-one
meetings, outdoor activities, and social events full of local flair. Education
focuses on professional development and provides insights into how this
generation will influence the future of our industry. Attendees leave Future
Leaders with both new ideas for conducting business and professional
relationships.
Candidates for Future Leaders demonstrate drive,
ambition, and passion for the travel industry. They're excited about shaping
the future of travel and inspired to find new and innovative ways to sell
travel.
To be considered for the event, advisors must provide
details of annual bookings and industry experience, as well as one industry
reference with contact details. Accepted participants are fully hosted and
receive access to all event programming, including meetings with supplier
participants. Learn more about the event and submit an application at www.futureleadersintravel.com.
A limited number of 2025 participants have been
selected to return as Guides for the 2026 event. These advisors were selected
for their achievements and enthusiasm for the event's purpose. During the
event, Guides help first-time participants navigate this opportunity, ensuring
attendees get the most out of the conference. They also contribute to the
educational content by hosting or moderating workshops and panels, and
facilitating high-impact discussions.
Guides for the 2026 event include, Carnisa Allen, Brown
Sugar Travel & Co.; Matt Angelo, National Discount Cruise Company; Kristina
Baker, Travels Made Easy; Jamie Blando, Integrity Travel; Kasey Bodine, The Edge
Travel; Steven Boyarsky, Dashing Destinations; Katy Caldwell-Cole, Touring
Folk; Kate Ciullo, Lumina Travel Co.; Matt Dawson, Adventures by Matt; Krystal
Hill, Endless Adventures with Krystal; Christie Hoover, 4 Moons Travel; Kareena
Islam, Grand Travel & Cruises; Asia Lantz, Travel with Asia; Shannon
Sellers, Coastal & Main Travel Company; and Stacey Wharton, Sioux Empire
Travel. Learn more about them here.
Supplier participants range from airlines, cruise lines, and
destinations to hotels and resorts, professional services, and tour operators.
View a full participant list here. Suppliers interested in participating can
reach out to Matt Hatch ([email protected])
or Emmy Smotrys ([email protected]) for
more details.
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