ABTA Regional Student Representatives As part of ABTA’s ongoing work to create meaningful connections between universities and colleges, their students, and the travel industry, ABTA has set up an initiative inviting each of our Education Partners to put forward an “ABTA Regional Student Representative” with a passion for the travel and tourism industry.Each ABTA Regional Student Representative will have regular contact with ABTA’s Head Office team and be partnered with a local ABTA Member or Partner, allowing them to gain valuable insight into the inner workings of the industry from experienced tourism professionals and act as a key point of contact between their education provider and the travel industry.As well as receiving training about ABTA and attending ABTA regional meetings to hear about the key issues facing the industry, they will also be tasked with making sure their fellow students are aware of volunteering, placement or employment opportunities with ABTA Members, and that their institution’s career days and guest lecture opportunities are promoted to ABTA Members in their region. ABTA Regional Student Representatives will also take part in facilitated discussions about their course content with their local ABTA Member, to build understanding between their university or college and the needs of local travel businesses and to ensure that the skills and knowledge they are developing matches up with the changing needs of the travel sector.We are immensely grateful to our Education Partners and our ABTA Members for taking the time to mentor so many students. If any ABTA Members are interested in working with students in their region, please contact vwolf@abta.co.uk. > Lisa Gorton at Leeds Beckett University talks about the benefits of the ABTA Regional Student Representatives scheme. Freya Jennings, Cardiff Metropolitan University Freya Jennings is the ABTA Student Rep for Cardiff Metropolitan University and is mentored by Laura Tullett from Hays Travel."Hi my name's Freya Jennings and I am a second year International Tourism Management student at Cardiff Metropolitan University. I have always had a passion for traveling to new places, trying new things and learning about new cultures. Studying tourism has developed my interest in sustainability and marketing in the tourism industry and are now two of the things I am particularly passionate about in my course. As part of my degree I am studying Spanish in professional contexts which has also helped me develop my customer service skills and love for different cultures.I am very excited about the opportunities that being an ABTA representative has to offer and the new skills I will learn for my future in the tourism industry and grateful about having been given this chance." Dylan Impey, Lincoln University Dylan Impey is the ABTA Regional Representative from Lincoln University and is being mentored by Samantha Briggs at Intrepid Travel."Hi. I’m Dylan, and I am a second-year student at the University of Lincoln studying BA (Hons) International Tourism Management. My eagerness to study tourism started at a young age, being particularly interested in all the natural phenomena and diverse cultures all around the world. When I found out there was a course that I could enjoy learning about these things, it was a no-brainer for me to choose this course.My studies have enabled me to grow an interest in sustainability, digital marketing and cultural heritage. I am very excited to be selected as an ABTA regional student representative, as I aspire to develop my career opportunities within the industry. I believe having a mentor will provide me with unique skills and knowledge that will support my professional growth after graduation." Chloe Whitear, Lincoln University Chloe Whitear is the ABTA Student Rep for Lincoln University and is being mentored by Shalini Roy from Intrepid Travel"Hi, my name is Chloe Whitear, and I am a first year International Tourism Management student at the University of Lincoln. I have always been passionate about travelling and exploring new places, so once I realised I could pursue a degree in it, I knew this would be the right course for me. Before university, I had not studied tourism or related courses for my A-levels, but following a trip to Australia, I fell in love with experiencing new cultures and knew I had made the right choice in my degree. I am particularly looking forward to studying abroad during my second year and getting to further my education in a different destination.I am thrilled to have been selected as an ABTA student representative and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with industry members and boost my skills to help contribute to my future career. I am so grateful to have the chance to work with my mentor and gain important insights and knowledge into the tourism industry." Matt Hale, Bournemouth University Matt Hale is our ABTA Student Representative from Bournemouth University and is being mentored by Andrew Baldwin, Carnival Group."I’m currently studying Tourism Management at Bournemouth University and am proud to begin my journey as an ABTA Student Representative. Travel has always been my greatest passion — I’m driven by a desire to explore the world and understand the industries that make it possible.During my placement year at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, I gained hands-on experience across guest services, valet, and reservations. My confidence grew enormously through connecting with guests from around the world, and creating memorable moments during their stays was deeply rewarding.As an ABTA Student Representative, I’m excited to represent student voices, expand my industry knowledge, and collaborate with my mentor to gain new insights into the operational side of travel and tourism. I look forward to building connections and contributing to an industry that continually inspires people to discover the world." Jika Hong, Bournemouth University Jika Hong is our ABTA Student Representative from Bournemouth University and is being mentored by Lindsey Thorpe from the Malta Tourist Authority."Hello, I am Jikwon Hong in my final year studying international hospitality and tourism at Bournemouth University. I am originally from the Republic of Korea which has a reputation of the land of morning calm. My journey to this point is driven by a deep desire to explore the complexity of our world and contribute to the advancement of my home nation.I have travelled to 13 nations which has taught me to appreciate diverse cultures, languages, and customs. These travelling experiences have provided important life learning experiences. I especially loved travelling around Argentina aged 17 and had experience of staying in a marginalised native society in Formosa, being hosted by Gauchos for a traditional Asado in Mendoza and reaching the glaciers in El Calafate in Southern Patagonia.I also served as reserve infantry drill sergeant in the 52nd mobilisation support group in Republic of Korea Army. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as an ABTA Student Representative for Bournemouth University." Megan Marsden, Leeds Beckett University Megan Marsden is the ABTA Regional Representative for Leeds Beckett University and is mentored by Katie Rankin from Jet2/Jet2 Holidays."Hi, my name is Megan. I am a final-year student at Leeds Beckett University, studying International Tourism Management with Marketing.My interest in travel and tourism began at college, where I first discovered my passion for this field. I aspire to explore the world and experience diverse cultures to broaden my understanding. My studies have sparked an interest in sustainability within the industry, as well as the effective use of social media and marketing to shape a brand's image.Reflecting on my experiences, my placement year in CT, USA, strengthened my resilience and ability to overcome challenges. This was an invaluable experience, helping me grow both personally and professionally. It provided a solid foundation for my future career, especially in delivering high-quality customer service with flexibility and effective time management. A highlight this year was my promotion to the events team, where I successfully organised and led initiatives following the event cycle.I am thrilled to serve as an ABTA Student Representative and to work alongside Vicki and Katie, gaining valuable insights into this industry. I look forward to learning more about the opportunities and challenges Jet2holidays faces in addressing sustainability issues and how ABTA is building a more sustainable travel industry. I am dedicated to continuous learning and gaining valuable insights into leadership and innovative ideas to succeed within the tourism sector." Amaya Seymour, University of Surrey Amaya Seymour is the ABTA Student Rep for the University of Surrey and is being mentored by Caroline Heaton from Easyjet Holidays."Hello, my name is Amaya and I’m currently a 2nd year International Tourism Management Student at the University of Surrey.My love for travel began during college, where I studied Travel and Tourism. This gave me a huge drive to pursue a career within the Tourism industry, and additionally, that’s where my love for going on holiday came from.Although the shift from college to university was rather difficult, I didn’t let that stop me from trying my best. Through resilience, I have managed to find a deeper passion for travel, specifically the marketing, business and events side of tourism. What I love most about university is that even though you’re doing a specific course, you can pick your niche through that course, such as choosing optional modules to focus on.As soon as I heard about the opportunity to become an ABTA Student Representative, I knew I had to get involved, as it’s the perfect chance to strengthen my skills and take on another challenge. I am beyond grateful to have been selected for this role, and I’m looking forward to learning more about ABTA on a deeper level as well as informing students about all my findings." Beth Richards, University of Surrey Beth Richards Is the ABTA Student Representative from the University of Surrey and is being mentored by Tolene van der Merwe from the Malta Tourism Authority."Hi, my name is Beth Richards and I’m a final-year International Tourism Management student at the University of Surrey. After completing my Professional Training Year in July 2025 as a Sustainability Specialist at ETOA – the European Tourism Association, I’m now working freelance in the same role to continue supporting the industry. This experience continues to deepen my knowledge of the European regulatory landscape, good practice examples, potential barriers to action, and the support required for a sustainable sectoral transition.As I think about my future in tourism, I’ve learnt that I’m most passionate about protecting the character of destinations and the communities within them. I would therefore like to enter destination management after I graduate, and I’m thrilled to be mentored by Tolene through the ABTA Student Representative scheme. Her guidance will be invaluable as I develop my knowledge in this area." Ana-Maria Stancu, University of Derby Ana-Maria Stancu is the ABTA Regional Representative from the University of Derby and is mentored by BlueBay Travel."Hello, I am Ana, an International Tourism and Management student at University of Derby. I grew up in Bucharest-Romania where I discovered my passion for the tourism industry, inspired by the unique attractions and stories of Romania. Travel and cultural exploration have always been an interest I wanted to develop. As part of my degree, the 2nd semester of my 2nd year, I will be studying in Athens. Living and studying in such a historically rich country will expand my understanding of global tourism trends and cultural preservation.I’m excited for the opportunity to be an ABTA Student Representative, working with industry leaders and students to contribute to the growth of tourism will help me with my future career aspirations. I am interested in destination branding, community-based tourism and new experiences within a destination, and I cannot wait to develop these skills as an ABTA Student Representative." Thomas Holgate, Craven College Thomas Holgate is the ABTA Student Rep for Craven College and will be mentored by Katie Rankin at Jet2 and Jet2 Holidays."Hello, my name is Thomas and I am currently studying the Aviation Management and Operations with Pilot Studies FdSc course at The Aviation Academy at Leeds Bradford Airport. Studying at The Aviation Academy allows me to further build on my knowledge of aviation, but also being located next to Leeds Bradford Airport allows me to seek opportunities that come up at the airport. I am passionate about aviation and am keen to learn as much as possible. I am excited and grateful to have been selected to be the ABTA Student Representative and I am looking forward to the opportunities, experiences and skills I will gain through ABTA that will help me build a career in aviation." Millea-Ann Pye, University of Sunderland Millea-Ann Pye is our ABTA Student Rep from the University of Sunderland and is being mentored by Julie Simpson from Hays Travel. "Hi my name is Millea-Ann, I am in my third year studying Tourism and Aviation Management. From a young age I’ve been encouraged from my peers to explore the world around me, this gave me love to experience new places and cultures as I enjoy meeting different people and knowing their different stories. My studies have grown my interest in the challenges in the industry and how to overcome them. I enjoy learning about new sustainable ways on how to better the industry and how to market these to customers.I am thrilled to be able to have the opportunity to work with ABTA as I love to grow my knowledge and skills and also build new connections in the industry." Kirsty Lavin, University of Sunderland Kirsty Lavin is the ABTA Student Rep for the University of Sunderland and is being mentored by Nicky Bird from Holiday Best."Hello! My name is Kirsty, and I am currently a third-year BSc Tourism and Aviation student at the University of Sunderland. For as long as I can remember, I have been passionate about the industry and have always wanted to make my own contributions through a successful career in the sector. I love to travel and can't wait to explore more of our wonderful world." Emmanuela Asante, University of Hertfordshire Emmanuela Asante is the ABTA Student Representative from the University of Hertfordshire and is being mentored by Tom Moss from Easyjet Holidays."From a young age, I have always had a deep passion for travelling and discovering new cultures. Born in Ghana, I moved to Italy at a very early age, where I was given the opportunity to immerse myself in the country’s rich history, traditions, and lifestyle. Growing up in Italy allowed me to explore diverse cultures during my teenage years and to develop a curiosity about the world.Later, I moved to the United Kingdom, a transition that further strengthened my love for travel and broadened my global perspective. Living in different countries exposed me to new environments, people, and ways of life, encouraging me to continue exploring beyond borders. To date, I have visited more than six countries, each experience deepening my appreciation for cultural diversity and international travel.Currently, I am studying Travel and Tourism Management, working to turn my lifelong passion into a career. I am excited about the opportunities that being an ABTA representative has to offer and the new skills I will develop to support my future in the tourism industry. I am truly grateful for having been given this opportunity. My ultimate goal is to work in the aviation industry, where I can combine my love for travel with a profession that connects people and cultures around the world." Miley Copeland is the ABTA Student Representative from Hertford Regional College and is being mentored by Chris Brown from Easyjet Holidays."Hi, my name is Miley Copland and I’m currently at Hertford Regional College, Broxbourne, studying Travel and Tourism.I have always had an interest in travelling. I love to see new places, try new things, and experience new cultures.This meant, I knew exactly what college course I wanted to pursue. Studying Travel and Tourism has taught me so much about the industry, helping me to understand how each sector works. Additionally, the course has also helped me realise what job opportunities and careers I’m particularly passionate about, including, hotel management.I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with ABTA, knowing I will be able to strengthen my knowledge and skills." Wiktoria Kurciarska is the ABTA Student Representative from the University of Wales Trinity St David and will be mentored by TUI."Hi, my name is Wiktoria. I am a third-year student at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, where I am studying International Tourism and Leisure Management.I have always enjoyed exploring new destinations, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and learning about different cultures and traditions, which inspired me to pursue a career within the tourism industry.Throughout my academic journey, I have gained valuable professional experience through a variety of placements and volunteering opportunities. I have completed placements at Swansea Arena, where I assisted with conferences, large-scale events, and music shows. My most recent placement was an international opportunity in Orlando, Florida, where I worked at Universal Orlando Resort’s Volcano Bay. This experience greatly enhanced my customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills while working with guests from all over the world in a fast-paced tourism setting.I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, and I am looking forward to representing ABTA." Sophia Rabaiotti is the ABTA Student Representative for the University of Wales Trinity St David and is being mentored by TUI.My name is Sophia Rabaiotti, and I am a second-year BA (Hons) International Travel and Tourism Management student at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD). I have a strong interest in the tourism industry, driven by its dynamic nature and its role in connecting people, cultures, and destinations worldwide. Through my academic studies, I have gained practical experience within the travel industry, which has enhanced my understanding of the sector and strengthened my career aspirations.Following my attendance at the ABTA Student Representative meeting in Cardiff and participation in discussions at the World Travel Market, I became aware of the opportunity to serve as an ABTA Student Representative. I was eager to get involved, recognising it as an excellent opportunity to further develop my skills and take on a professional challenge. I am grateful to have been selected for this role and look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of ABTA, engaging with industry professionals, and sharing insights with fellow students as I progress toward a career in tourism. Liv Hurley is the ABTA Student Representative from the University of Greenwich and is being mentored by Emma Smallwood from Intrepid Travel."Hi, my name's Liv Hurley and I am a second year Tourism Management with French student at Greenwich University. I have always loved travelling to different countries, discovering new cultures and trying new activities. I decided to study tourism at university to continue expanding my understanding of global cultures, improve my communication skills and to open diverse career opportunities in the industry. I went travelling around South East Asia between my first and second year which allowed me to widen my knowledge on various cultures around the world and explore a more diverse way of life.In becoming an ABTA representative, I am excited for the opportunity to continue learning more about different aspects of the tourism industry whilst further improving my knowledge of the sector. I’m looking forward to working with my mentor to gain further insights into different elements of the tourism industry and exploring many opportunities that will help further my career."
