That was the message from Taiwo Owatemi MP, Labour’s shadow minister for women and equalities, as she gave the keynote address at TTG’s first Fairer Travel Diversity Forum.
When asked her view on the travel sector’s lack of racial diversity, Owatemi urged delegates to “put diversity and inclusion at the forefront” of their businesses.
“As a black woman, I would love to see more [diversity]. Travel is an industry so focused on providing the best customer service, so it would only benefit businesses and their customers.
“Travel can be difficult for people from different backgrounds and there isn’t always the choice of companies and that level of expertise and knowledge of some types of travel.
“The more companies look to offer more varied experiences, then that will help them attract different types of customers and make their clients feel valued.”
Owatemi also emphasised the need for travel leaders to provide employees with “greater flexibility” in the workplace.
From disabled staff, to those from single-parent households, Owatemi urged bosses to “provide the environment for everyone to be able to grow and succeed”.
“Having those conversations and asking about those needs is so important," she added.
