Google has launched a partnership with social enterprise Women in Travel CIC to help disadvantaged, unemployed women find roles in travel and tourism.
The funding, via Women in Travel CIC’s Employability Programme, will support participants with training and mentoring – plus introductions to potential employers for the opportunity to secure a role in the travel industry.
The partnership also includes Google’s involvement in Women in Travel’s male allyship programme, and the provision of the venue and hospitality for the annual International Women in Travel and Tourism Forum (pictured).
Alessandra Alonso, managing director and founder of Women in Travel CIC, said: “We are lucky to have had a fantastic, collaborative relationship with Google since 2021 and are hugely grateful for their support and enthusiastic participation in our programmes.
“With the ongoing staffing crisis in the travel and tourism industry in the UK, this refreshed partnership could not come at a better time.
“We will be able to invest in the skills training, mentoring and confidence building that will help our incredibly resilient and talented women become work-ready and provide a critical solution to a number of businesses that are struggling to recruit.”
Finnbar Cornwall, travel industry leader at Google, said: “We are proud to partner with Women in Travel across a number of meaningful avenues to champion marginalised and vulnerable women, empowering them to fulfil their economic and individual potential. Not just because it’s the right thing to do but because we know it is a proven model and pipeline to bring underrepresented talent to the fore, which is vital as the industry rebuilds.”
Since its inception five years ago, Women in Travel CIC has helped 154 women with more than 1,200 hours of support through its Employability Programme.
Pictured from left at the International Women in Travel and Tourism Forum 2022 at Google offices are: Finnbar Cornwall, travel industry leader, Google; Alessandra Alonso, founder and managing director, Women in Travel CIC; Edward Lines, industry manager, Google; and Katarina Kljajic, industry manager, Google