#WomensMonth: Navigating the world as a woman with Kelly Jackson

Kelly Jackson

Do you feel a ‘glass ceiling’ exist for women in your industry?

Kelly Jackson: I am very fortunate to work in an industry that is predominantly female, and that includes a lot of females in positions of power too. So I have never seen a ceiling. Maybe there is, but I am an optimist and see only the sky as the limit.

Who is your biggest influence/role model/icon?

Jackson: I have been through many phases in life where certain people influence me or have become my role model. When I was younger, Princess Diana was my be all and end all. I think every doll I had was named Diana. But in all honesty, the most consistent role models in my life are my mom and dad. They are by far the biggest influences on me. They are the most generous, kind, caring, supportive, encouraging and loving parents a girl could wish for. I adore them and am so grateful for everything they have done and still do for me in order to help me navigate this thing we call life.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing women in your industry today?

Jackson: I honestly thought about this question for a long time and I couldn’t come up with any issues, not even one. Maybe I am naïve, or oblivious to them. But in all seriousness, I think if you work hard in this industry... opportunities will open up.

Do you think it’s important to have a month dedicated to women?

Jackson: I think having a whole month dedicated to celebrating women is amazing. Why set aside just one day or one month to celebrate a person or people? I am also a believer that all people should be celebrated every day.

Kelly in Costa Rica

What barriers did you face, as a woman, becoming successful in your field, and how did you overcome them?

Jackson: I am a typical female - sometimes I am filled with self-doubt. I had to learn to ignore the voices inside my own head. In addition, there will be people along the way who will try put you down. To overcome this, I surrounded myself with positive influences who could teach and mentor me in order to ensure that I grew not only as a person but enabled me to reach new heights in my career.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women pursuing a career in your field?

Jackson: The travel industry is an exciting industry, we do more than just sell holidays – we make dreams come true. If you are entering this industry you need to be passionate about people, willing to go the extra mile and know that if you want to rise through the ranks, only hard work will get you there. Last but not least – make sure you have a valid passport so you can grab all the wonderful travel opportunities that come your way!

Kelly in Greece

Any words of wisdom you would like to share with women in business?

Jackson: I love and live by the infamous quote “Greet the janitor with the same respect as you would greet the CEO”. I think it is very powerful and applies to any industry. We are all people at the end of the day and I think everyone is working hard to make a living. Being nice and respecting people doesn’t cost you a thing. You know what they say: ”"The way you treat people says a lot about who you are!”

What is your message for Women's Month?

Jackson: At Contiki, we are all about living life with #NOREGRETS, so my advice is to take chances – you never want to look back and wish you had grabbed an opportunity. Set goals, pursue your dreams and remember the world is your oyster and it’s all up to you to make it happen.