Eight Kiwi agents have been named among the most passionate advocates globally for travel to the United States, as part of Brand USA’s 2026 Ambassador Program.
The eight Kiwis are among the 250 Global Travel Trade Ambassadors Brand USA is appointing worldwide in 2026 as part of America’s 250th anniversary, as its president and ceo Fred Dixon acknowledges strong partnerships with the travel trade as being ‘fundamental’ to Brand USA’s success.
The Kiwi cohort includes Flight Centre’s Swapnil Bhate, Holly Cliffe from House of Travel Auckland City, Travel Managers’ Yvette Dyer, House of Travel Devonport’s Tori Melody Taiaroa, Kimberley McCormick from House of Travel Botany Junction, Helloworld Mount Maunganui’s Abbie Bluck, and House of Travel New Zealand’s Fiona Muir and Leonie Paul. See their photos HERE. The group will spend the next 12 months participating in destination training, networking opportunities, partner events and immersive educational experiences across the US, with help from Qantas, which has joined the Brand USA Ambassador Program as the exclusive airline partner for Australia and New Zealand.
Malcolm Smith, svp global markets and chief trade and product development officer at Brand USA says that the volume and quality of applications exceeded expectations, something he adds reflects the incredible enthusiasm travel advisors have to connect international travellers with the US.
“These 250 ambassadors represent a network of trusted professionals who will share best practices, mentor their peers, and strengthen confidence in selling the US during America’s 250th anniversary and for many years to come.”
For more information about Brand USA, and USA travel resources, see HERE.
