Leading entrepreneurs from Flight Centre Travel Group’s (FCTG) global independent divisions concluded their annual conference, Worldwide 2024, on May 4. The event was held in Santiago, Chile, and saw attendance from more than 300 travel professionals from the US, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.
Under the theme, ‘For Every Journey’, workshops, panels, and speakers inspired and challenged attendees who participated in discussions on navigating change, successful travel businesses, and the impact of overtourism.
“Every journey is a story waiting to be told, and here is ours,” said Danielle Galloway, Global MD of FCTG’s Luxury & Independent Divisions, in her keynote address.
The event also featured prominent speakers, including travel branding expert Nicole Hatherly and Dr Craig Challen, who shared his experiences leading the rescue of a youth soccer team trapped in a Thai cave.
Social events were also a highlight, with a welcome party, a gala dinner with an awards ceremony, and a farewell fiesta.
During the ‘Santiago Sparkle’-themed gala dinner at the Botánico Centro de Eventos, 13 members were honoured at Worldwide’s new award programme, ‘The Envys’, which celebrates top achievers and standout members.
On the final night, guests were treated to a party at Le Virgen in Santiago’s Bellavista neighbourhood for a Farewell Fiesta. Tarot card readers, magicians, and caricature artists entertained guests throughout the evening.
Organisers say the positive response to Worldwide 2024 has led them to make the conference an annual event.
“In reflecting upon the enthusiasm and unparalleled success that marked the Worldwide 2024 event, we are thrilled to announce our decision to make Worldwide an annual fixture on our calendar. This decision is a testament to the vibrant energy, innovative spirit, and strong sense of community apparent throughout this year’s gathering. As we look ahead, we are excited about what the future holds and bringing our global community together in unprecedented ways,” said Chantal Gouws, GM of Flight Centre Independent (FCI) South Africa.
