Photos: Jaspreet Singh
What’s the most important thing you learned in school?
I’ve learned that being adaptable really matters—things don’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. School taught me how to stay calm under pressure and think on my feet. I also learned the value of asking for help and leaning into teamwork. It’s those soft skills that often make the biggest difference.
Why did you choose to study travel, tourism or hospitality?
Honestly, I’ve always loved helping people and learning about different cultures. Travel brings those two passions together in such a beautiful way. I wanted a career that feels exciting, meaningful and focused on people. Tourism just felt like the perfect fit for my personality. It’s a field that’s always evolving and I love that it challenges me creatively.
What is your greatest professional strength?
I’m a naturally empathetic person, which helps me connect with guests and coworkers in a genuine way. I listen closely and try to understand what people need, even if they’re not saying it outright. That emotional awareness helps me create positive experiences and solve problems with care. It’s a strength that’s made a real difference in every role I’ve taken on.
In your opinion, what’s the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now and why?
I think the rise of immersive cultural experiences is such an exciting trend. Travelers want to go beyond the surface—they want to cook with locals, learn traditions and feel like they belong even for a short time. It brings so much more meaning to travel and encourages deeper respect for the communities we visit. It’s also a great way for destinations to show their true identity, not just what’s marketable.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
This year, I want to keep growing my confidence, especially in leadership and public speaking. I also want to dive deeper into the marketing side of tourism and start creating content that inspires people to explore responsibly. A big goal is to keep building my professional network and learn from people who are doing the kind of work I dream of. Most importantly, I want to keep saying yes to things that scare and excite me at the same time.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself leading a creative and purpose-driven tourism brand or initiative—something that blends community impact with unique guest experiences. I’d love to be mentoring others too, giving back the same way people have poured into me. Hopefully, I’ll have a few passport stamps and stories under my belt by then. Whatever I’m doing, I just want it to feel meaningful.
What are some of the top places you want to see in Canada and why?
Banff has been at the top of my list for a while. The scenery looks absolutely breathtaking and I’d love to experience the mountains and lakes in person. I also really want to explore British Columbia, especially Vancouver and the coastal areas, for their mix of nature, culture and vibrant communities. There’s something peaceful about being surrounded by natural beauty, and both places seem perfect for that. They feel like the kind of destinations that leave a lasting impression.
What do you do to engage in travel, tourism or hospitality mindfully/sustainably?
I try to travel with intention—not just for the pictures, but for the people and stories behind the place. I support small and local businesses whenever I can, and stay curious and respectful about cultural differences. Even when I work in the industry, I think about how guests can experience something real and responsible, not just trendy. It’s about choosing experiences that give back as much as they take.
Name your favourite travel or hospitality experience so far:
My favourite travel experience so far was a winter trip to Quebec City. I got to go dog sledding, snow tubing and fully immerse myself in the beautiful French Canadian culture. The mix of adventure and history made it feel like stepping into another world. It’s a trip I still think about often—it reminded me how travel can be both thrilling and deeply enriching.
Name your greatest achievement so far:
Being chosen as a finalist for the Baxter Student Ambassador Program is definitely a proud moment for me. It feels like a big step forward in the career I’ve been working hard to build. I’m also proud of the progress I’ve made in improving my confidence, especially in stepping outside my comfort zone to try new things. Whether it’s public speaking or taking on new responsibilities, each experience has taught me the importance of pushing past self-doubt and embracing growth.
What’s the best OR worst piece of travel advice you’ve received?
The worst advice I ever got was to “just go with the flow” without any planning—especially for solo travel. I learned quickly that having a loose plan gives you freedom and peace of mind. Some of the best moments happen spontaneously, yes—but preparation helps you enjoy those moments without stress. So now, I aim for a balance: plan enough to feel secure, leave room for the magic.
What destination is next on your dream travel list and why?
Singapore is next on my dream list! I’m fascinated by its blend of cultures, modern architecture and dedication to green urban spaces. It’s a hub of innovation in tourism and sustainability. Plus, I can’t wait to explore its food scene and visit the iconic Gardens by the Bay.
