Meet Lydia, Berlin’s Chapter Leader

Say hello to one of our Travel Massive Berlin chapter leaders, Lydia Band. Lydia is a masters student in sustainable tourism and an advocate in creating positive development in travel. As a masters student of sustainable tourism (at HNE Eberswalde), Lydia is trying to figure out ways to create positive change in the future of the global tourism industry. She hopes to achieve benefits for the environment, economy and society as a whole. So, we asked her a few questions to get her take on Travel Massive. 

How did you first get involved with Travel Massive?

I was first involved with Travel Massive during my internship with ITB Berlin in 2014.

What motivates you to be part of Travel Massive?

I enjoy having the opportunity to get in contact and network with different people of the tourism industry. Furthermore to exchange knowledge and experiences in order to learn from each other. I enjoy the opportunity to create ideas, find solutions and work together. Travel Massive provides a great environment to speak about topics which are important to me or about which I want to learn more about. 

What makes your city a great place for meet-ups?

Berlin is an inspiring place for new innovative ideas and developing your own businesses. This is noticeable in the growing number of start-ups and young entrepreneurs, as well as the spaces and initiatives providing a base for them to work and grow. There are also several cultures merging in this city, which creates an international atmosphere and helps to create connections from all over the world.

Do you have a favourite event so far?

In our chapter we are trying to address topics which are important or applicable to the global travel industry. We also have a special concern regarding the city of Berlin. In this regard the Travel Massive Berlin chapter often talks about the refugee status and how the tourism industry can have a positive effect. Events like these are quite memorable for me. We once had a long and very interesting discussion and were not only sharing thoughts, but tried to find solutions together.

What is your best advice to a newcomer who wants to attend a Travel Massive event for the first time?

Be open-minded and don’t be afraid to connect with other attendees. Usually we have an open mic opportunity during our events in Berlin, which should encourage the audience to pitch their ideas, projects, find new staff, find a job etc.

Our Leader of the Pack is a monthly series that profiles the organizers and leaders of Travel Massive chapters around the world. You can get in touch with Lydia Band via Travel Massive.