Applications for the highly anticipated Future Leaders in Travel are now open. The event, tailored to travel advisors 40 and under and global travel suppliers, will take place in Riviera Maya, Mexico, from Aug. 25–28 at Hotel El Dorado Royale, a Lomas Hospitality property.
Future Leaders in Travel, powered by TravelAge West, is unlike any other event, dedicated to connecting standout buyers and sellers.
“One reason this event is such a success is because of how deeply engaged, supportive and aligned our attendees are, which boils down to our careful selection process,” said Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West. “My top tip for applications is to make sure you clearly demonstrate your dedication to grow as an advisor through pursuing education, creating powerful business relationships and sharing your own talents and expertise.”
During the four-day event, advisors and suppliers will build authentic relationships through collaborative content sessions, one-on-one meetings, outdoor activities, and social events full of local flare. Education focuses on professional development and provides insights on how this generation will influence the future of our industry. Attendees leave Future Leaders with both new ideas for conducting business and professional relationships.
Candidates for Future Leaders demonstrate drive, ambition, and passion for the travel industry. They’re excited about impacting the future of travel and inspired by finding new and innovative ways to sell travel.
To be considered for the event, advisors must provide details on annual bookings and industry experience, in addition to supplying one industry reference with contact details. Accepted participants are fully hosted and receive access to all event programming, including meetings with supplier participants. Learn more about the event and complete an application by visiting www.futureleadersintravel.com.
A limited number of 2025 participants have been selected to return as Guides for the 2026 event. These advisors were chosen based on their achievements and enthusiasm for the event’s purpose. During the event, Guides help first-time participants navigate this opportunity, ensuring attendees get the most out of the conference. They also contribute to the educational content by hosting or moderating workshops and panels, and facilitating high-impact discussions.
Guides for the 2026 event include, Carnisa Allen, Brown Sugar Travel & Co.; Matt Angelo, National Discount Cruise Company; Kristina Baker, Travels Made Easy; Jamie Blando, Integrity Travel; Kasey Bodine, The Edge Travel; Steven Boyarsky, Dashing Destinations; Katy Caldwell-Cole, Touring Folk;Kate Ciullo, Lumina Travel Co.; Matt Dawson, Adventures by Matt; Krystal Hill, Endless Adventures with Krystal; Christie Hoover, 4 Moons Travel; Kareena Islam, Grand Travel & Cruises; Asia Lantz, Travel with Asia; Shannon Sellers, Coastal & Main Travel Company; and Stacey Wharton, Sioux Empire Travel. Learn more about them here.
Supplier participants range from air, cruise, and destinations to hotels and resorts, professional services, and tour operators. View a full participant list here. Suppliers interested in participating can reach out to Matt Hatch ([email protected]) or Emmy Smotrys ([email protected]) for more details.
