House of Travel Papamoa’s Carly Dorrington took out the Rookie of the Year award at the weekend’s National Travel Industry Awards, and she says she’s still overwhelmed, given how many talented people there are in this industry.
“Even just being nominated was a privilege in itself,” Dorrington tells Travel Today. “So to actually win the award was something I’m really proud of and thankful for.”
She attributes her win to hard work, determination, a willingness to learn, and genuinely caring about the customer experience.
“Since starting, I’ve tried to stay open to feedback, challenge myself, and make the most of every opportunity to grow.”
She also gives ‘a special mention’ to House of Travel and her team at HoT Papamoa, who she says have been amazing from day one.
“They’ve really encouraged my development, backed me to grow my confidence, and created an environment where I feel motivated to keep improving,” she adds.
“My owner operator Tanya Aitkin and store manager Esther Ru Bay have provided so much support and encouragement and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them taking a chance on me.”
. . . Travel Driven
Dorrington joined the travel sector two years ago. As a passionate traveller herself, she says the excitement and freedom she feels when roaming continues to bring new joy into her life, and the opportunity to help others experience this same joy and to do it as a career, is ‘a dream’.
“Travel carries emotion, meaning and connection, and being trusted to help shape those experiences is incredibly special,” says Dorrington. “With all the depth and richness of my role in this industry, I often feel that I am the lucky one.”
“Winning this award has motivated me even more to keep challenging myself and exploring where a career in this industry can take me.”
