The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) have today announced that the “International Women’s Day (IWD) lunch in Sydney on Wed 8th March is a sell-out, with more than 170 attendees to descend upon L’Aqua at Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour.
In addition to the previously announced speakers, attendees will be moved by travel industry media executive Hoda Alzubaidi, who arrived in Australia at a young age as a refugee.
Alzubaidi will share her journey that is not only emotional, but defines a strength and character that is sure to inspire.
“We are very excited to be hosting our inaugural IWD event that will be hosted by the flamboyant Julia Zaetta, and promises to be thought-provoking and inspiring as we showcase some of the incredible talent that exists within the CATO membership group,” managing director, CATO, Brett Jardine, said.
Panellists, each of whom have a unique journey to share, will be moderated by CATO Vice-Chair and Crooked Compass Founder, Lisa Pagotto include;
· Lou Tandy (nee McGeary): Co-owner, APT Travel Group
· Gai Tyrrell: Managing Director Australasia, Globus Family of Brands
· Sue Badyari: Chief Executive Officer, World Expeditions
· Toni Ambler: Managing Director Touring Brands, The Travel Corporation
· Ingrid Berthelsen: Joint CEO, Evolution Travel Collective
CATO recently announced their full event program which falls inline with their strategic plan, Jardine said, “as a result of the feedback and demand for our hugely successful industry-wide events in 2022, we have again in 2023, opened our events calendar up to welcome all of the industry”.
“Developing events which address the challenges the industry face and re-connect members with retail trade partners is a key strategic priority and focus for CATO. We have an exciting array of speakers already confirmed this year across all events and look forward to updating the industry on these in due course.”
