Honouring Leaders in Travel

March 8th is a moment to not only reflect on progress but also to recognise the far-reaching impact of trailblazing individuals. International Women’s Day stands as a celebration of resilience, determination, and achievements that inspire us all. This year, as Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 approaches, we highlight the journeys of four exceptional women —Danielle Curtis, Marylou Tancio, Brooke Gilbertson, and Wellah Ellis—whose work continues to shape the travel and tourism industry. Through their passion, perseverance, and leadership, these individuals set an inspiring example of what can be achieved when vision meets tenacity.

Charting New Journeys

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director at ATM, began her career with a curious spirit and a love for creating memorable moments. “A love for cultural exchange and travel led me working in the hospitality industry, crafting memorable experiences, events, and incentive trips,” Danielle reflects. From her early days in hospitality to her current leadership role in large-scale exhibitions, her career has been defined by a deep commitment to connecting people and cultures.

For Sales Manager Marylou Tancio, her entry into the WTM Portfolio began with an opportunity she embraced wholeheartedly. “I am forever grateful to the people who took chances and believed in me,” she shares. What started as a childhood dream of exploring the world became her reality after she accepted a referral for a sales position at a travel show. Today, she channels her passion for cultural exchange into creating meaningful professional milestones.

Conference Manager Brooke Gilbertson first approached the travel and tourism industry unexpectedly. Drawn initially to event management unrelated to travel, she discovered along the way the magnetic energy and opportunity of the sector. “It was a lucky accident,” Brooke admits, though her career has since become one of deliberate progress, purpose, and resilience.

For Wellah Ellis, Head of Sales at ATM, a pivotal experience early in her career cemented her passion for travel. “A pivotal moment was delivering ATM in 2009 and seeing the entire travel industry come together under one roof,” she recounts. That moment sparked 16 years of excellence, as she has continued to bridge connections and develop enduring relationships across borders.

Turning Challenges into Catalysts

The road to success is seldom without its challenges, and for these leaders, each hurdle became a turning point for growth.

Danielle Curtis gained her resilience through adaptability. “Flexibility and learning from setbacks, along with always moving forward with a positive outlook is key to my approach,” she explains. Whether navigating shifting industry landscapes or aligning with customer needs, Danielle’s foresight and determination have always been her allies

For Marylou, every challenge has represented an opportunity for progress. “I am, and will always be, a firm believer that challenges make a person even stronger and better,” she attests. A defining moment came when she was tasked with revising a challenging floor plan for 70 exhibitors—a daunting request that ultimately led to her most successful event yet.

Wellah recalls having to confront societal biases in her early career. “Starting my career while experiencing racism wasn’t easy,” she confides. Using these moments to fuel her determination, she focused on demonstrating the value she brought, breaking through barriers with perseverance.

Brooke faced the challenge of stepping into a leadership position at 24. “It was difficult to cement authority and be heard as a younger employee,” she shares. By approaching these hurdles with dedication and continuous learning, she quickly built a reputation for consistent and effective leadership.

Defining True Success

For each of these leaders, success is founded on meaningful contributions and collective progress.

Danielle views success through the lens of connection. “It’s not just about commercial results,” she notes, “I pride myself on fostering a collaborative work environment and the meaningful relationships I have built along the way.”

Wellah reflects on achievements that have driven industry-wide collaboration, including initiatives like Medical Tourism and Cruise Tourism Pavilions at ATM. “Success is about creating meaningful connections and driving positive change,” she says, with a focus on actions that elevate others alongside herself.

Marylou values personal milestones, such as being named Reed Exhibitions Sales of the Year in 2023. For her, these recognitions symbolize the pursuit of excellence in everything she undertakes.

For Brooke, her inclusion in TTG’s 30 Under 30 list is a proud moment that affirmed her place within the industry. And her experience working alongside keynote speakers such as Louis Theroux continues to stand out as a career highlight.

Inspiration for All

The principles these leaders apply in their work and lives offer lessons for anyone striving for growth and excellence, regardless of field or background.

• Danielle Curtis: “What can I do today, that can make a difference for tomorrow?” This forward-thinking philosophy fuels each step of her leadership.
• Marylou Tancio: “Bloom and grow where you’re planted.” Her approach encourages maximising every opportunity, no matter the starting point.
• Brooke Gilbertson: Inspired by Vincent van Gogh, she shares, “Success is sometimes the outcome of a whole string of failures.” This belief drives her to challenge boundaries and innovate fearlessly.
• Wellah Ellis: “Life is what you make it.” An empowering reminder that every challenge carries the seed of transformation.

Moving Forward Together

Reflecting on their journeys, these leaders encourage everyone—across industries and roles—to seize opportunities and contribute to collective progress.

Danielle invites others to prioritize advocacy, saying, “Never stop advocating for each other.” For her, collaboration is the foundation of success.

Marylou reminds us to cultivate enthusiasm and empathy, qualities that elevate not just individual work but entire teams.

Brooke champions the need for balance and well-being. “Hard work doesn’t always pay off; it leads to burnout. Balance is key,” she advises, recognizing the importance of mental health alongside ambition.

Wellah implores everyone to trust their strengths. “Don’t be afraid to speak up—your voice has power,” she shares, a sentiment that resonates across industries and roles.

A Celebration of Excellence

The achievements and perspectives of Danielle Curtis, Marylou Tancio, Brooke Gilbertson, and Wellah Ellis represent the best of what can be achieved through vision, resilience, and collaboration. Their stories remind us all of the potential that exists when challenges are seen as stepping stones rather than barriers.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate these exceptional women and the work they continue to do, not just in shaping the travel industry but in demonstrating the strength of purposeful ambition. To all striving for excellence—your efforts, courage, and vision inspire others to reach beyond what they thought was possible.

To every woman striving to make their mark—your dreams, resilience, and courage light the way for generations to come.