Join us for another Tourism Ambassador Event!

Connect with your fellow emerging tourism network at our Tourism Ambassador networking night. Learn our panellists’ stories, who have a wide range of experiences working in the tourism industry.

Meet the panellists:

Jessica Horton, Go West Tours

Jessica embarked on her tourism career with a Bachelor of Business in Tourism & Hospitality from La Trobe University. Starting with an internship at Go West Tours, she swiftly progressed through roles in reservations, accounts, marketing, and relationship management.

Her career highlight came when she successfully integrated teams from a competitor post-acquisition during the challenging COVID-19 era, where she also gained diverse experience at the Taxation Office, as a contractor, and at Zoos Victoria.

Now as General Manager at Go West Tours, Jessica oversees all aspects of operations. Accepted into the Melbourne Tourism Leadership Program for 2024, she aims to empower young women in tourism, fostering inclusive leadership and innovation. Jessica is excited to collaborate with fellow ambassadors to shape the future of tourism leadership.

George Kopelis, Intrepid Travel

During his Arts/Commerce degree, George initially worked at Bunyip Tours selling day trips, finding tourism appealing but not yet considering it a career path. However, after graduation, an opportunity at Intrepid combined his economics background with practical experience in tour operations, proving to be an ideal fit. The challenges of Covid-19 were substantial; managing cancellations during travel restrictions tested his resilience, but the reopening of borders reignited his passion for the industry.

A unique aspect of George’s career includes a brief stint as a graduate journalist, a long-time goal that he quickly realized wasn’t his calling. Tourism has since proven to be a more fulfilling and fitting career path.

George is motivated to become an ambassador to share his journey and enthusiasm for the tourism industry, aiming to inspire others to consider this dynamic and rewarding field.

Ronae Jennings, Departments of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions

Ronae has built a dynamic career in tourism, marked by multiple interstate moves and diverse roles. Starting with Qantas Holidays, she excelled in reservations, product management, sales, and airport operations, including as an Airport Manager in Alice Springs and Darwin. After 20 years representing the Qantas brand, she took a career break to explore new opportunities, such as managing exclusive dining events on Kangaroo Island.

Now, as an Aboriginal Tourism Adviser, she is working on the potential of a First Peoples Tourism Industry Body and has been involved in the community engagement around this. Ronae’s passion for the industry and commitment to diversity drives her to inspire others, particularly First Peoples, to recognise and pursue the broad and fulfilling career paths available in tourism.

Zippi Bryan, Punthill Apartments | Veriu Group

Zippi’s tourism career highlights include transforming her team members from a Super Host (Duty Manager) into a Junior Hotel Manager at Punthill Essendon (removed North), fostering team collaboration and earning accolades like Hotel Manager of the Year nomination. She led Punthill Essendon to win Hotel of the Year and her team member winning Super Host of the Year also.

Known for community engagement, Zippi forged strong local connections and navigated the successful launch of Punthill Essendon North despite challenges, achieving impressive occupancy and revenue milestones. Her path from front office, through reservations and revenue before returning to operations underscores a commitment to guest service. As an ambassador, Zippi aims to inspire young professionals by showcasing diverse career paths and promoting collaborative networking in the industry.

Enjoy canapes and welcome drinks included.

Attend as a YTN member for $10, non-members $20.

Date: Wednesday, 31 July

Time: 5.30pm to 9pm

Location: Hop Bar and Garden, Beer Deluxe, Federation Square

Click here to register!