Nicholls will share his journey with neurodiversity, along with insights from more than 20 years in travel, at the 2023 International Women in Travel and Tourism Forum.

The network, which now numbers nearly 30 industry leaders, was set up to encourage more male leaders to engage, embrace and enrich female talent through mentoring and sponsorship, with a particular focus on championing candidates from under-represented groups.

"Joining the male allyship Network is a significant step for me personally and professionally, as it aligns with my deep-rooted belief in the importance of diversity and inclusivity within the travel industry," said Nicholls.

"By sharing my own journey with neurodiversity and leveraging my 20-plus years experience in the travel industry, I aim to contribute to The BIG Neurodiversity Conversation at the forum. It is an opportunity to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote acceptance of diverse perspectives, including those related to neurodiversity."

Alessandra Alonso, founder and managing director of Women in Travel CIC and the IWTTF, added: "Olly is a successful and influential leader within the travel and tourism industry and a powerful ally to neurodiverse individuals. At IWTTF, he will share his personal story and the challenges he has overcome to be where he is today, demonstrating that neurodiversity is no barrier to success.

"He is also amplifying the message that neurodiverse talent should be actively embraced by companies in the sector. We know that neurodiverse people in the room will be empowered by his example and message of inclusion."

Intrepid Travel managing director EMEA Zina Bencheikh and Advantage Travel Partnership chief executive Julia Lo Bue-Said will be among the speakers at the IWTTF, with Women in Travel last month revealing the judging panel for the first-ever IWTTF awards.