United We Stand, Divided We Fall!

In this feature series, GBTA's Board of Directors share their views on topics that matter most to members, the industry and the way forward for business travel. Today's guest author is GBTA Board member Carol Fergus, Director, Global Travel Events and Ground Transportation at Fidelity International. 

Upon completing a year on the GBTA Board, I'm retracing my journey to share some of the 'Light Bulb Moments' that have come with contributing to an organisation and getting value in return. Being part of a community not only unites and validates us, but the opportunity to impart expertise and turn actions into deeds have made the experience great as well.

As an ambassador for GBTA I have participated in industry webinars and panels. One time I realised I was the oldest person on the panel speaking to a younger audience. This made me say less, appreciate new thinking and ideas and enjoy how the other panellists' voices resonated with the listeners. I learnt that my light will always shine but others' will shine brighter if I push them forward, using my knowledge and experience to guide and lift.

This brings me to mentoring, sponsorship and allyship, which are the pinnacle of who I am. Being part of GBTA has afforded me the opportunity to meet many people and bring out their best by showing interest and helping them meet their goals and aspirations. This has not only been exhilarating and extremely satisfying but showcased my value and given a sense of purpose to my Board role.

October is Black History Month in the UK and Ireland; we celebrate and remember the historians, leaders, ambassadors and thinkers who called for, instigated, drove and died for change. We also recognize the importance of being seen, having a voice and a seat at the table.

My journey this year on the GBTA Board has given me a bigger seat, a louder voice and a brighter light. It has shown me that our members support, engage, participate and show their appreciation by volunteering tirelessly, our sponsors contribute because they respect what we do, and we all strive to build a collective travel industry that is greater than the sum of its parts.

I encourage my colleagues to always be there to catch and raise each other up - because united we stand, divided we fall.

Happy Black History Month.