Comment: Let’s hear it for the girls

Working for a company that has always championed women in the workplace, it was a no-brainer when the AWTE approached me to ask whether Travel Weekly would be its media partner.

While I work in an office in which most senior managers are female, and have achieved the success their skills and effort deserve, it’s a sad fact that not all companies offer the same level playing field.

And that’s why the work of the AWTE to further women in travel through training, networking, coaching, mentoring and inspiring is still needed.

While there’s no doubt that more needs to be done to improve the gender balance in the sector – particularly at management and boardroom level – I was greatly encouraged by the volume and quality of entries for this year’s AWTE Awards.

I was honoured to join the line-up of judges and learn more about some truly inspiring women, from those embarking on their careers, injecting ideas and energy into traditional firms, to the often unsung heroes who have been the backbones of businesses over decades.

I was particularly proud to see my own colleague, Hollie-Rae Brader, chosen as the recipient of this year’s AWTE’s Business Impact Award (by other judges, I might add!) for her success since taking the helm of Travel Weekly’s luxury sister title Aspire.

It was a fitting reward for her passion, creativity, drive and thirst to learn. And at just 30 years of age, I hope her win will inspire other young women to push on every door to get the recognition they deserve.