What inspired you to pursue a path in travel, tourism, or hospitality?
Since I was very young, I have been passionate about tourism, travel, hospitality, and customer service in restaurants and hotels. After graduating from high school in Ecuador, I pursued a degree in Tourism at ESPOL University, where I studied for four years and earned my bachelor’s degree. I began my career working in different areas of hospitality, where I developed a deep love for what I do. That passion led me to come to Canada to further my education and pursue a diploma in management.
What excites you most about the future of this industry?
What excites me most is that tourism is constantly changing and evolving with new trends, technology, and destinations yet to be discovered. It is an industry that never stays the same, which makes it dynamic and full of opportunities. I am excited that my generation and future generations can benefit from the tools and advancements developed over time. It motivates me to be part of an industry that continues to grow and innovate.
What’s one experience that has shaped who you are today?
One experience that has shaped who I am today was working with people from different cultural backgrounds during my studies in Hospitality and Tourism Management. It helped me develop strong communication skills and a deeper appreciation for diversity. I learned how to adapt to different situations and better understand guests’ needs.
Additionally, being an International Student Ambassador at my college and contributing as a volunteer in peer support allowed me to see things from a different perspective and connect with people from diverse cultures on a deeper level. These experiences have made me more open-minded and confident in my career path.
How do you hope to make an impact through your career?
I hope to leave a meaningful mark by helping others see the world and customer service through my perspective and experiences. I want to apply everything I have learned throughout my career and continue growing professionally. I am eager to share my ideas on how to improve customer service across different areas of tourism. My goal is to create positive and memorable experiences for others.
Why do you believe travel has the power to change lives or communities?
I believe travel has the power to connect people from different cultures, traditions, and backgrounds. It allows us to experience things beyond what we see in movies, books, or media. Traveling helps us become part of those moments and understand others on a deeper level. It shows us that despite our differences, we are all connected and can learn from one another.
What has been your most memorable travel or hospitality experience so far?
One of my most memorable experiences was working on a cruise ship for five months. Although it was a big challenge and my first time doing something like that, it was incredibly rewarding. I met amazing people and had the opportunity to travel around the world, visiting places like Hawaii, Dubai, and Sydney. It was once a dream, and now those memories and experiences are something I will always cherish.
What destination is at the top of your travel bucket list right now and why?
This is a difficult question because my perspective has changed after traveling on a cruise ship. Before, I would have said Paris or Hawaii without hesitation. Now, I realize there are so many places I still want to explore, such as Greece, and I would also love to return to Sydney and Dubai. Each destination offers something unique that I am excited to experience.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about travel or your career?
The best advice I have received about travel is to enjoy every moment because you may never experience it the same way again. You might return to the same place, but the circumstances will always be different. Regarding my career, I was taught to love what I do, give my best, and treat others the way I want to be treated. I also believe that every person is unique and deserves respect and understanding.
As a Baxter Student Ambassador, what are you most excited to contribute or achieve this year?
Being a Baxter Student Ambassador is an honor and a privilege. I am most excited about learning more about tourism in Canada and representing the country from my perspective.
I also hope to represent international cultures; especially the Latin community, as I take pride in being not only a representative of Red River College Polytechnic , but also of my country and my family. I look forward to gaining new skills, sharing my journey, and building meaningful connections within the industry.
