Meet the team: ABTA Regional Student Representatives

The ABTA Regional Student Representatives scheme, overseen by Vicki Wolf, ABTA Head of Education, has been running successfully for five years. The scheme gives an opportunity for committed students with a passion for our industry to learn more about the work ABTA and our members do, as well as receive direct mentoring from an ABTA member.

Here, two of the current student representatives set out what being a student representative has meant for them and how much they value the help and guidance provided by ABTA and their mentors.

Kirsty Lavin is the ABTA Student Representative for ABTA Education Partner Sunderland University. Kirsty is being mentored by Nicky Bird, Head of Trade Sales at Holiday Best.

Kirsty said, “Having an ABTA mentor has been an extremely positive experience. Nicky has been a great support, helping me to self-assess my development and career goals, whilst providing useful industry resources. The experience of being a part of this scheme allows me to network with professionals through Nicky's strong links within the sector.

I feel supported by my mentor, who has always been very approachable, welcoming and knowledgeable. I feel comfortable with being open about my future career prospects with Nicky, who responds with thorough thought and ideas which I may not have considered prior to our meetings. I am very grateful to be an ABTA representative.”

Megan Marsden is the ABTA Student Rep from ABTA Education Partner Leeds Beckett University and is mentored by Katie Rankin, Head of Emerging Talent at Jet2/Jet2 Holidays.

Megan said, “Serving as an ABTA student representative gave me the opportunity to connect with and learn from industry professionals. My desire to deepen my understanding of industry sustainability practices and to contribute to innovative and responsible tourism. I am grateful for the guidance from Katie Rankin, Jet2's Head of Emerging Talent and Careers Manager for Jet2.com, who provides her time and support alongside my studies and offers valuable insights into the travel industry.

Attending the World Travel Market in London for the ABTA talk and meeting with Vicki Wolf was a highlight for me. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit the Jet2 Holiday House for an informative tour of various departments. It was inspiring to observe how each team collaborates seamlessly. During the visit, I discussed the company's sustainability strategy for 2050 and explored marketing and social media systems. This experience has significantly contributed to my personal growth, enabling me to acquire new skills, supporting my academic success, boosting my confidence, and reaffirming my passion for the travel industry.”

Find out more about the scheme and our other ABTA Regional Student Representatives.