Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Graduate lands top prize at women in travel awards
Ana Seidi was announced as the winner of the “One to Watch” category at the 2019 Revolut Everywoman in Travel Awards.
The everywoman panel were impressed by her undergraduate research about the empowerment of local women through tourism in Cape Verde.
It comes just months after Ana was presented with the Institute of Travel and Tourism 'Student of the Year' award at the House of Parliament.
Ana graduated from the School of Events, Tourism & Hospitality Management with a BA (Hons) in International Tourism Management in July this year.
She said: “I really wanted to win this award, it symbolises a lot to me and it comes with a great deal of recognition, motivation and responsibility.
“I am deeply grateful to all the women and men behind this great award ceremony.
“It is great to have a platform were the contributions of women to the travel and tourism industry can be celebrated without prejudice.
“During the ceremony I also had the opportunity to connect with many inspiring and likeminded women which was one of the big highlights for me.”
Ana was nominated for the One to Watch category which is awarded to a young game-changer under the age of 25 who demonstrates a passion for the travel industry.
Her nomination came while working on industrial placement as an accounts assistant at Radisson Blu where she was described as "a dedicated team player, with a distinct willingness to develop”.
Lisa Gorton, Course Director at the School of Events, Tourism & Hospitality Management, said: “The School of Events and Hospitality Management would like to wish Ana a huge congratulations for this fantastic achievement.”
The awards were first set up to shine a light on trailblazing women in the travel industry, from apprentices to CEOs.
Maxine Benson MBE, co-founder of everywoman, said: “The One to Watch award was created to celebrate young game-changers under the age of 25 in education or apprenticeship who demonstrate a passion for the travel industry.
“Ana won the One to Watch award at the Revolut everywoman in Travel Awards, following her placement as an accounts assistant at Radisson Blu.
“Whilst there, Ana stepped out of her comfort zone and developed exceptional problem-solving and team working skills, becoming a key support to both front and back of house.
“With consistency and diligence, she successfully cleared and kept the hotel ledger of debtors within the internationally agreed targets, and, due to her willingness to develop she actively supported other departments, from coordinating charitable events to supporting GDPR and Brand Compliance.
“Ana also gives back to others by acting as a BAME student ambassador and participating at the Leeds Beckett University women in leadership programme, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
Photos courtesy of Everywoman Ltd