AWTE Together
Connecting and supporting women in travel since 1954 — a community built on shared experience, real connection and a genuine desire to see others succeed.
A community, not just a membership organisation.
AWTE brings together people from across the travel industry to connect, grow and support one another — both professionally and personally.
We’re not just a membership organisation, but a community built on shared experience, real connection and a genuine desire to see others succeed. Whether you’re early in your career or in a leadership role, AWTE offers space to learn, contribute and be part of something meaningful.
Founded in 1954, AWTE has long championed women in travel, creating a platform for ideas, conversation and connection. Today, that purpose remains at our core — supporting confidence, growth and greater visibility across the industry.
Space to grow, connect and feel supported.
AWTE offers a space to grow, connect and feel supported — both professionally and personally. Through shared experience, conversation and community, we create opportunities for people to build confidence, gain new perspectives and move forward in their careers.
At its core, AWTE is about real connection — bringing people together across the industry to learn from each other, be inspired, and feel part of something supportive and meaningful.
More than opportunities. A community that celebrates your wins.
Support
A space for women in travel to support one another — sharing experience, building confidence and growing together.
Community
A community that celebrates your wins, supports you through challenges and helps you move forward at every stage of your journey.
Growth
Opportunities to learn, contribute and be part of something meaningful — from career beginnings to leadership.
From The Women’s Travel Club to AWTE.
AWTE began life as The Women’s Travel Club in 1954, founded by Joan Richardson. At a time when many professional networks were closed to women, she created something new — a space for women in travel to connect, support one another, and build their careers. That spirit of connection, ambition and shared experience has remained at the heart of AWTE ever since, evolving alongside the industry it proudly serves.
Seven decades of connection and growth.
The Women’s Travel Club is founded, with its first meeting held in London.
The Scottish branch is established, marking early growth beyond London.
The organisation becomes the Association of Women Travel Executives (AWTE).
Events and partnerships begin to expand AWTE’s reach and influence across the industry.
The first international chapter is launched in Ireland.
Continued collaboration across the industry, alongside growing recognition of allies and supporters.
AWTE celebrates 70 years — a moment to honour its history while shaping what comes next.
Shaped by community, driven by connection.
Today, AWTE continues to evolve — shaped by its community and driven by connection, growth, and opportunity for women across the travel industry. While much has changed since 1954, the core idea remains the same: creating space for people to come together, share experiences, and support one another as they move forward — together.
Image created (with a little AI creativity) by former AWTE Chair Claire Osborne, who continues to support AWTE today.
Elected by the membership, guided by experience.
The AWTE Board brings together people from across the travel industry, representing a range of roles, experiences and perspectives. All board members are elected by the membership at our Annual General Meeting. Together, they help shape the direction of AWTE — guiding our activity and contributing to the growth of the community.
“We believe everyone should embrace who they are, can define their future, and can change the world.”
Find out More
Want to know more about AWTE, our history, or how you can get involved? Get in touch or explore our membership options.