From launching women’s networks within their organisations to working to embrace different ethnicities and cultures within a company, as well as creating LGBT networks, TTG was bowled over the inspirational work of individuals throughout travel.
One shortlisted Travel Pride Champion was a victim of homophobia at his previous employer, but wanted to ensure no-one else ever had to go through the same experiences as him, and subsequently created an LGBT Employee Resource Group when he started at his new company.
Another developed a more inclusive offering for their company, creating LGBT-friendly tours, as well as Halal and Kosher restaurants.
Meanwhile another shortlisted Champion launched a women’s network, hosting regional events to embrace diversity across the UK.
The 2018 Travel Pride Champions shortlist:
- Cherie Richards, director of commercial, The Global Travel Group
- Bradley Escorcio, product manager media and partnerships, Thomas Cook
- Carrie Grant, sales manager, Kuoni
- Laura Town, content production and publication manager, Cottages.com
- Darren Hutton, international Litigation Manager and LGBT+ Employee Resource Group Lead, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd
- Liz Cairns, head of leisure land product, Flight Centre
- Jonathan Peat, sales manager, Celebrity Cruises
- Seb Thompson, press office manager and Patrick Alexander, head of marketing Manchester Airport
- Kenny Smith, international business development manager, OTT
- Alice Hye, services contracts manager, AC Group
- Susie Goss, marketing director, James Villa Holidays
- Mark and Stuart Swords, founders, Swords Travel
- Gordon Smith and Krystin Arneson, KOG
The winning Travel Pride Champions will be named at this year’s Travel Pride after the TTG LGBT Conference.
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