What inspired you to pursue a path in travel, tourism, or hospitality?
My passion for travel, tourism, and hospitality comes from my lived experience as an immigrant and lifelong traveler. I arrived in Canada at two years old after my family fled war in the Zagros Mountains, eventually settling in Ottawa and later Hamilton while building a new life. Growing up, my father inspired me to explore the world, often sharing stories about beautiful places while reminding us to stay proud of our Kurdish roots and appreciate other cultures. Hospitality is a core part of who I am, rooted in Kurdish tradition where welcoming others with warmth, generosity, and even a pot of dolma is simply a way of life.
What excites you most about the future of this industry?
What excites me most about the future of the travel and hospitality industry is its growing focus on accessibility and listening to travellers’ needs. More people are speaking up about where and how they want to travel, creating opportunities for more convenient routes and local departures without relying on major hubs. My experience working as a CSA at Hamilton International Airport has shown me how valuable customer feedback is in shaping better travel options and improving overall service. As I continue to learn and grow, I’m excited to be part of an industry that is evolving to better serve everyone.
What’s one experience (in either travel, school, or work) that has shaped who you are today?
One experience that shaped who I am today was my first visit to Kurdistan at 21, returning to the homeland my father always spoke so passionately about. After traveling long hours, we arrived at his village, where his sister still lives, and I finally saw the mountains and landscapes he had described throughout my childhood. It was a bittersweet moment, as the village had changed and fewer families remained, but I could still feel his presence in the stories and memories tied to that place. Seeing Kurdistan through my own eyes deepened my connection to my roots and reinforced the importance of culture, identity, and storytelling in my life.
How do you hope to make an impact through your career in travel, tourism, or hospitality?
I hope to make an impact in the travel and hospitality industry by continuing to learn and grow while creating meaningful and welcoming experiences for travelers. I enjoy sharing my travel stories and showing others the exciting possibilities the world has to offer. Through my education and connections, I’ve built strong relationships with peers and professionals across the industry, from local tourism organizations to global travel companies. I’m passionate about advocating for the value of tourism education and helping inspire others to see the importance and potential of this field.
Why do you believe travel has the power to change lives or communities?
Travel has the power to change lives because it opens your perspective and connects you with people and cultures you may never have experienced otherwise. It has changed my life by allowing me to meet people from all corners of the world and realize how connected we truly are, even in such a big world. Through travel, I’ve learned about different traditions, foods, and history, understanding the stories behind them and the people who carry them forward. These experiences not only shape individuals but also strengthen communities by building cultural appreciation, connection, and opportunity.
What has been your most memorable travel or hospitality experience so far?
My most memorable travel experience was a recent trip to Ireland as a student at Mohawk College, where I was selected for a global learning program with Beyond Borders. Alongside 9 students from diverse programs and backgrounds, we visited South East Technological University in Waterford and were welcomed with incredible hospitality. We explored the campus, took guided tours, and traveled through the countryside, experiencing the landscapes, culture, and local life firsthand. Our stay at Dooley’s Hotel, where we were warmly hosted for a week, made the experience unforgettable and truly one for the books.
What destination is at the top of your travel bucket list right now and why?
Nice, France has been at the top of my travel bucket list for many years because of its beautiful countryside, coastal views, and famous flower fields used in perfume making. I would love to take a boat trip to Monaco for a day and explore one of the smallest countries in the world. It would be incredible to walk the same places as Grace Kelly and imagine her life after becoming Princess of Monaco, which makes the experience even more inspiring to me. Experiencing events like the Cannes Film Festival and immersing myself in the region’s connection to fashion, timeless style, and the elegance of the French Riviera would make the trip unforgettable.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about travel or your career?
The best advice I’ve received is to always be prepared to learn something new and never assume you know everything. Staying open-minded allows you to grow both personally and professionally. I’ve also learned the importance of being present and enjoying every moment along the journey. This mindset has helped me appreciate each experience and continue evolving in my career.
As a Baxter Student Ambassador, what are you most excited to contribute or achieve this year?
As a Baxter Student Ambassador, I’m excited to contribute my leadership skills and continue growing through new learning and travel experiences. 2026 has already been an unexpected and rewarding year filled with opportunities that I’m grateful to be part of. At Mohawk College, I received strong support from my professors and classmates, and I was honored to serve as a tourism class leader. I’m looking forward to bringing that same energy, teamwork, and passion into the Baxter program.
