ABTA Regional Student Representatives

Sophie Down is the ABTA Student Representative for Cardiff Metropolitan University and is being mentored by Laura Tullet at Hays Travel.

“Hi, I’m Sophie, an International Tourism Management student at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Travel has always been a huge passion of mine, so when it came to furthering my education, the decision to choose this course came as a no brainer. The global opportunities that come alongside this course particularly drew me to it, and next year I’ll be taking part in a volunteer programme in Sri Lanka and Camp America!

I’m looking forward to the next chapter of graduating, travelling and finding a career within the industry. Something that I’m particularly keen to pursue would be working on a cruise ship. 

I’m super excited and grateful for this incredible opportunity to be a ABTA Student Representative, and I thoroughly believe that this will help me with my future career aspirations, as the connections and knowledge you can acquire through this role is priceless.”
 

Emily Street is the ABTA Student Representative from Cardiff Metropolitan University and is being mentored by Laura Tullet at Hays Travel.

“My name is Emily, and I am a third-year in BA(Hons) International Tourism Management student at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Having grown up within the Welsh Valleys my entire life, I've always had a deep appreciation for the beautiful world around me. So, when I discovered I could study a course that presented opportunities to travel, better understand the industry, and share that passion with like-minded people, it was inevitable I would study tourism management. 

While the course has enabled me to develop core knowledge and theoretical perspectives of the ever-growing industry, I am so excited to develop this knowledge and skills further, and to fully embrace the opportunity of being an ABTA Student Rep.”

Joshua Griffin is the ABTA Regional Representative from Lincoln University and is being mentored by Samantha Briggs at Intrepid Travel.

"Hello, my name is Joshua Griffin and I am currently enjoying my second year at the University of Lincoln studying BA (Hons) International Tourism Management. I love travelling to new destinations to see new cultures and take in unique experiences and I have done so since before I can remember. It is only natural then, that I have chosen to pursue a future in the Tourism industry. Since beginning my journey into the Tourism industry I have spent a lot of time researching and learning about ABTA so as an ABTA Student Representative I hope to gain a more in depth understanding of the association and maybe a new perspective on how I look at the Tourism industry. This opportunity will enrich my future career prospects and my character so I look forward to giving it my all with my new professional contacts."

Harley Bayliss is the ABTA Regional Representative from Bournemouth University and is being mentored by Andrew Baldwin, Carnival Group.

"Hi, I’m Harley, a final-year Hospitality Management student at Bournemouth University. My journey in hospitality began with a rewarding five-year career in 3* and 4* hotels, where I gained hands-on experience through several apprenticeship programmes. These experiences provided me with practical knowledge and credits that helped secure a place at Bournemouth in 2021. My passion for the cruise industry drives my ambition to pursue a shoreside role in reservations and guest services after graduating. I am excited to serve as an ABTA Student Rep and look forward to collaborating with industry professionals, gaining valuable mentorship, and exploring opportunities that will shape the early stages of my career."
 

Kareema Animashaun is the ABTA Regional Representative from Bournemouth University and is being mentored by Samantha Hall from Inside Travel Group.

"My name is Kareema Animashaun, and I am currently in my final year studying Tourism and Hospitality Management at Bournemouth University. I’ve always been fascinated by the world of travel and the business behind creating unforgettable experiences.

Studying tourism and hospitality has given me a bird's eye view of the industry and helped me discover a real passion for sport-related tourism. A perfect way to combine my love for travel and the excitement of global sporting events.

Being an ABTA representative is an opportunity to continue developing my skills. I’m excited to keep learning and exploring all the opportunities this industry offers."

Paul Singh is the ABTA Regional Representative for Leeds Beckett University and is mentored by Katie Rankin from Jet2/Jet2 Holidays.

“Hello, my name is Paul Singh, and I'm in my second year of studying International Tourism Management at Leeds Beckett University. After college, I was unsure about what career path I would take in the future and decided to study International Tourism Management because I believed it would be a great opportunity for me. But starting an unfamiliar course, with no background experience, in a new city, was challenging but exciting.

This course has grown my interest in foreign marketing, regeneration, and sustainability, which has made me want to switch into the International Tourism Management with Marketing course. Being chosen as one of ABTA's Regional Student Representatives has only motivated me to expand my understanding of the tourism industry further. I am looking forward to working with Katie to gain insights and knowledge about tourism from an industry perspective.”

Tyler McGleish is the ABTA Student Representative for Hertfordshire University and is being mentored by Thomas Moss from Easyjet/Easyjet Holidays

"My name is Tyler McGleish and I am currently in my first year of studying International Tourism Management at the University of Hertfordshire. Prior to university, I hadn’t studied any related courses in my A-levels; yet, upon discovery of this course it instantly appealed to my interests. I am particularly enjoying the cultural communities module. I am very interested in learning about how subconscious stereotyping can impact tourist destinations, highlighting the importance host communities have on tourism. I was overjoyed to be chosen as one of ABTA’s student representatives.  I look forward to further developing my professional skills and insight and learning more about the industry."

Beth Richards Is the ABTA Student Representative from the University of Surrey and is being mentored by Nicola Sadowski from Kuoni.

"Hi, my name is Beth Richards and I’m a third-year International Tourism Management student at the University of Surrey. I’m currently on my Professional Training Year as a Sustainability Specialist at ETOA – the European Tourism Association – where I’m gaining incredible insight into sustainability and climate action in the tourism sector.  

Supporting the industry’s sustainable transition has always been something I’ve been passionate about, so working at such an influential association that advocates for better tourism is an amazing opportunity. I continue to enhance my understanding of the regulatory environment, good practice, potential barriers to action, and the support necessary for widespread transition.

Being an ABTA Student Representative further shapes my perspective of sustainability in tourism. I’m grateful for the opportunity to enhance my knowledge through mentorship and I’m looking forward to building this connection."

Acacia Ely is the ABTA Regional Representative for Plymouth University and is being mentored by James Lawrence of ABTA Partner Peregrine Risk Management.

"Hi, I’m Acacia Ely, and I am currently in my final year studying BSc (Hons) International Tourism Management at the University of Plymouth. Having previously worked in various hospitality roles, I really enjoy learning about the different aspects that affect the current tourism industry, including sustainability, which I am incredibly enthused within. 

Although I had no previous education in tourism prior to university, I knew this course was perfect for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed studying tourism as part of my academic journey. After my studies, I look forward to beginning my career in the tourism industry. I am optimistic to expand my understanding and knowledge of the tourism industry, being mentored by an industry professional - I am very excited for this opportunity as an ABTA Student Representative."

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 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.'