What’s the most important thing you learned in school?
The most important thing I have learned in school is the significance of adaptability and teamwork. My tourism service management courses have taught me how to address diverse customer needs and navigate the tourism industry in Canada. Additionally, my leadership role with the Seneca Nigerian Student Federation and experience as an event staff member with the Seneca Student Federation have helped me develop stronger leadership, collaboration and problem-solving skills that will remain valuable in both personal and professional settings.
Why did you choose to study travel, tourism or hospitality?
I chose to study travel, tourism and hospitality because I see travel as one thing you pay for that enriches you more — when you travel, you get equipped with knowledge, communication skills, cultural awareness and much more. I have a passion for creating memorable experiences for people, and I want to pursue a career that combines my love for adventure with my interest in customer service and hospitality. I am excited to be part of an industry that keeps innovating, brings joy to others, leaves footprints and shapes how people experience the world.
What is your greatest professional strength?
My greatest professional strengths are my smile and my ability to communicate effectively with people. These are skills I have developed over the years through my job as a flight attendant and in my leadership roles.
In your opinion, what’s the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now and why?
I would say the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now is the increase in advocacy for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. The rise in support for local communities from tourists is impressive. This movement is not only shaping the future of the industry but also supporting global environmental initiatives, and it is exciting to see how the sector is embracing these changes to create innovative solutions that positively impact both the environment and local economies.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
My goals for the year ahead are to gain hands-on experience in the tourism industry and continue developing my communication and customer service skills while expanding my professional network. I aim to gain valuable experience through internships or projects that will prepare me for a successful career. My end goal is to gain the expertise needed to eventually open my own travel agency, put smiles on people’s faces and create memorable experiences for enthusiastic travellers.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself as the owner of a successful and well-established travel agency. By then, I’ll have accumulated extensive experience in the tourism industry, having worked my way up through internships, projects and various roles that have honed my communication, customer service and leadership skills. My agency will focus on creating personalized, unforgettable travel experiences with a reputation for excellent customer care. I hope to have built a strong network within the travel industry, and I’ll be leading a passionate team dedicated to helping people explore the world. I want to be known for making travel accessible and enjoyable for all while running a business that thrives on making a positive impact on both travelers and the communities we serve.
What are some of the top places you want to see in Canada and why?
While I have a lot of places on my to-visit list for Canada, I will mention just five of those places. One is the CN Tower, because it is an iconic landmark and offers a panoramic view of Lake Ontario and the city of Toronto. Second on my list is Banff National Park. I have heard a couple of beautiful things about Banff, and because I see myself as an adventure tourist and nature lover, Banff will satisfy this craving to enjoy both activities. The third place I want to see is Allan Gardens, a conservatory botanical garden that features a wide variety of plants from around the world. I feel it will remind me of how I felt when I visited the butterfly pavilion in Kenya. The fourth place on my list is Niagara Falls, because it is also a natural wonder. I would like to be there during winter and go back there during the summer period to explore all the beautiful sites, including the lake, the parkway, butterfly conservatory, Niagara Gorge, etc. Lastly, Quebec City, as it is a European-inspired cobblestone city that promises to take one back in time. I would like to see Old Quebec, which is a World Heritage Site..
What do you do to engage in travel, tourism or hospitality mindfully/sustainably?
To engage in tourism sustainably, I patronize local stores in places where I visit. I buy arts or crafts made in the country, visit local restaurants, and eat locally sourced food items to experience the local culture and support local communities. Also, when I visit places like zoos, I ensure I do not feed the animals, exploit them or disturb them. I do not engage in activities that harm the ecosystem. Lastly, I ensure I have my water bottle with me to avoid buying bottled water and pack mostly reusable items for my travels.
Name your favourite travel or hospitality experience so far:
My favourite travel experience so far would be my first ever trip out of my country, Nigeria. We travelled by air to Accra, Ghana, and came back by road. I absolutely enjoyed the trip, and stayed in beautiful waterside hotels and enjoyed local foods — and I cannot forget the beautiful and historical Kwame Nkrumah Park.
Name your greatest achievement so far:
I would say what I consider my greatest achievement so far is relocating to Canada to pursue a certificate in tourism service management and coping with all the challenges that come with studying in a new environment, alongside being the president of the Seneca Nigerian Student Federation, working, managing my family, studying another course on the side and emerging as Seneca’s 2025 Baxter Student Ambassador.
What’s the best OR worst piece of travel advice you’ve received?
The worst piece of advice I ever received was, “Leave all your shorts, Ankara print and Nigerian-made clothes when coming to Canada, you won’t need them.” Moving here, I discovered I honestly do need them!
What destination is next on your dream travel list and why?
In order of priority: Cancun, Mexico, Thailand and the Galapagos Islands are places I dream about when it comes to travelling. Cancun, because that place is rich in history and culture, and it has beautiful beaches. I want to enjoy the flavour and aroma of delicious Mexican street dishes, plus see cenotes and other natural wonders of Cancun. I see myself doing the water activities I have read about and studied like scuba diving, snorkeling and jet-skiing — I need a picture or video of myself swimming with dolphins!
