An initiative aimed at cultivating talent has been created by Attraction World Group (AWG).
The Development Hub by the Birmingham-based company will initially focus on the West Midlands.
It builds on partnerships with University College Birmingham, University of Birmingham, University of Wolverhampton and Manchester Metropolitan University.
Collaborating with ITT Future You, which marks its 15th anniversary, The Development Hub is an extension of ITT’s mission to act as a conduit between academia and the travel sector.
The partnership aims to foster growth both within AWG and the wider travel industry.
Group chief executive Olly Nicholls said: “I’m proud to endorse the launch of The Development Hub, a testament to our pledge to champion learning and professional evolution within the travel industry.
“Our vision for the Hub extends beyond training; it’s about reshaping the talent landscape across the West Midlands.
“The industry is at a crossroads, especially here where major travel brands have departed, leaving a void. We are seizing this opportunity to diversify the talent pool by tapping into the rich potential of our region’s youth.”
He added: “This is more than just investment in skills; it’s about fostering an environment where varied experiences and backgrounds converge, fuelling innovation and a broader perspective essential for the travel industry’s growth.
“By prioritising potential and aligning with our core values, we’re creating pathways for those who might not have traditional access to the sector, ensuring that the West Midlands becomes synonymous with a vibrant, diverse travel industry talent hub.
“The Development Hub will serve as a beacon, demonstrating how the travel industry can thrive through inclusivity and by embracing a wider array of voices.
“Together with ITT Future You, we are not just predicting the future of travel; we are actively building it, right here in Birmingham.”
Tia Ghai, EMEA experiences manager at AWG and the visionary behind The Development Hub, said: “Having started as an intern myself, it’s incredibly rewarding to see how my journey can inspire and shape a platform for others.
“With Olly’s support, we’re amplifying what AWG excels at – cultivating a nurturing environment and professional development, but now on a larger scale.”
Claire Steiner, chair of the ITT education and training committee, added: “As a Future You Ambassador, Olly has been amazing in giving his time and support to help encourage and inspire the next generation as well as providing opportunities for students with AWG and Tia is a fantastic example of the talent emerging from education.
“The Development Hub is a fantastic evolution of AWG’s commitment to supporting the next generation of travel professionals. ”