A Force For Good Hub event kicked off in Sydney today, bringing together leaders from across travel and business to discuss purpose-led leadership and social impact.
Founded by Helene Taylor, the one-day event opened with a keynote focused on mindset and the role businesses can play in driving positive change. Taylor also spoke about the inspiration she draws from her daughter, who navigated a journey from Sydney to Tasmania just five months after undergoing open heart surgery. She also reflected on the misogyny she experienced when first launching the event in 2018.
Helloworld Travel chief operating officer and executive director Cinzia Burnes reflected on her journey from humble beginnings in Rome to becoming one of the travel industry’s most influential leaders. Burnes told the audience she grew up in a 100 square metre apartment in Rome and once helped occupy her school after a planned trip was cancelled due to budget cuts. She later moved from Milan to Cairns, eventually rising through the ranks of the travel industry.
TTC Tour Brands managing director Toni Ambler also took to the stage, sharing insights into the leadership qualities she looks for when hiring. Ambler spoke about her own career journey, including a period when colleagues attempted to stage a coup to block her promotion, and emphasised the importance of resilience, integrity and setting the right example for her daughters.
The Sydney event continues throughout today with sessions exploring leadership, wellbeing and social impact.
