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Women in Tourism Webinar: tackling imposter syndrome

Even the most experienced professionals can sometimes feel like they don’t quite belong.

Whether it’s questioning your achievements, doubting your abilities, or feeling pressure to prove yourself in new situations, imposter syndrome affects people across every stage of their career, including many successful women working in tourism, hospitality and business leadership.

On Friday 3 July, Women in Tourism invites you to join us online for an honest and supportive conversation exploring imposter syndrome, confidence and self-belief in the workplace.

This virtual event brings together inspiring women from different sectors to share their experiences openly, discuss the challenges many professionals face behind the scenes, and explore practical ways to navigate self-doubt while continuing to grow professionally.

Meet the speakers

Dr Jeanette Forbes OBE

Founder and CEO of Aberdeen-based PCL Group, Jeanette Forbes OBE is an award-winning entrepreneur, business leader and passionate advocate for women in business and STEM.

From building an international technology company from her kitchen table to leading businesses across technology, hospitality and innovation, Jeanette brings a wealth of experience in leadership, resilience and navigating the challenges that come with professional success.

Kim Woolner

Joining Jeanette is Kim Woolner, an accomplished HR and business professional, coach and consultant with more than 25 years’ experience helping organisations and individuals thrive.

Specialising in culture change, employee wellbeing and inclusive workplaces, Kim combines strategic business expertise with practical coaching to help people build confidence, overcome challenges and realise their full potential.

Kim is a Board Director at VisitAberdeenshire, Vice-Chair of the CIPD North Scotland & Islands Committee, part-time CEO of the Russell Anderson Foundation, and a Fellow of the CIPD.

Together, Jeanette and Kim will explore why imposter syndrome affects so many accomplished professionals, sharing personal experiences, practical advice and strategies to help attendees build confidence and embrace new opportunities.

Why this conversation matters

At Women in Tourism, we know that confidence gaps can impact career progression, visibility and leadership opportunities across the sector.

Creating supportive spaces where women can share experiences openly, learn from one another, and feel encouraged in their professional journeys is central to our mission.

This session is designed to remind attendees that self-doubt is far more common than many people realise, and that confidence is something we can continue to build together.

Event details

📅 Friday 3 July 2026

⏰ 10:00–11:00am

📍 Online webinar

🎟 Tickets:

  • Free for Women in Tourism members
  • £5 for non-members

Book it here

Why attend?

  • Hear honest insights from experienced women leaders
  • Explore practical ways to navigate imposter syndrome
  • Connect with a supportive community across the tourism sector
  • Take time to reflect on confidence, growth and leadership

Whether you’re early in your career or leading at senior level, this webinar offers a welcoming space to learn, reflect and connect with others who understand the realities behind professional confidence.

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Women in Tourism Summer Social 2026

As the summer season gathers pace, we’re inviting women from across Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sector to come together for an evening of connection, conversation and community.

Join us on Thursday 18 June at Tigerlily, Edinburgh for the Women in Tourism Summer Social, a relaxed networking evening designed to bring people together before what promises to be another busy season across the industry.

Whether you work in attractions, hospitality, events, travel, marketing or destination management, this is an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, reconnect with familiar faces, and meet new people working across the sector.

At Women in Tourism, we believe some of the most valuable conversations happen outside the boardroom. Over drinks and nibbles in the heart of Edinburgh, we’ll create space to share ideas, strengthen connections and celebrate the people who help make tourism in Scotland such a vibrant and welcoming industry.

Our Summer Social is all about building community in an informal, supportive environment. No panels. No presentations. Just great company, relaxed conversation, and a chance to welcome the season together.

Why attend?

  • Expand your network in a relaxed and welcoming setting
  • Connect with women working across Scotland’s tourism and hospitality industry
  • Catch up with peers before the busy summer season begins
  • Meet new contacts, collaborators and future supporters
  • Enjoy an evening of drinks, nibbles and conversation at one of Edinburgh’s most stylish venues

Event details

📅 Thursday 18 June 2026

⏰ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

📍 Tigerlily, Edinburgh

🎟 Tickets: Members: £20 Non-members: £25

Drinks and nibbles included.

 

Whether you’re a long-standing member or joining us for the first time, we’d love to welcome you for an evening of connection, support and shared celebration as we head into summer together.

Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early.

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Collaboration: powering up your brand through partnership

Glasgow is a city that thrives on connection. From its vibrant hospitality scene to its world-class events, success here is rarely a solo act. It’s built on relationships, shared ambition, and a willingness to work together. 

That spirit sits at the heart of our upcoming Women in Tourism event, Collaboration: Powering Up Your Brand Through Partnership, taking place on Thursday 4 June at The Delphine in Princes Square. 

This session brings together two standout organisations, The Superlative Collection and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC), to explore what happens when brands move beyond working in isolation and start building something bigger together. 

Why collaboration matters 

In an industry as dynamic as tourism and hospitality, collaboration is more than a buzzword. It’s a catalyst. 

When businesses align their values, share resources, and support each other’s growth, the results can be transformative. Stronger brand positioning. Wider audiences. A more vibrant and resilient destination. 

This event will shine a light on those outcomes through real examples and honest reflections. Expect practical insights into how partnerships can elevate not just individual businesses, but the wider ecosystem around them. 

At Women in Tourism, we believe in the power of connection to unlock opportunity. Creating spaces where ideas, experience, and ambition can be shared is central to our mission of supporting women across the sector. 

Meet the speakers 

Courtney Flynn 

Courtney Flynn brings a wealth of experience across sales, communications, and hospitality. As Head of Sales, PR & Comms at The Superlative Collection / Merchant Pubs & Bars, she leads strategy for some of Glasgow’s most recognisable venues, including BAaD, Glaschu, Gost and Cuvée. 

Her work is rooted in community and connection, from organising networking events to supporting charitable initiatives. Courtney’s perspective offers a grounded, real-world view of how collaboration can shape both brand identity and city culture. 

Hannah Cochrane 

Hannah Cochrane is a Sales & Business Development Manager at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC), where she plays a key role in bringing major conferences and events to Glasgow. 

Recognised as a Scottish Thistle Award Rising Star and named among the Top 100 Women in Tourism, Hannah is a passionate advocate for the power of events to elevate destinations. Her energy and people-first approach make her a compelling voice on collaboration within the industry. 

Event programme 

09:00 Arrival, tea, coffee and pastries
09:30 Welcome from Women in Tourism
09:40 Speaker session with Courtney Flynn and Hannah Cochrane
10:30 Q&A and networking 

Why attend? 

  • Gain practical ideas on how to build meaningful partnerships  
  • Learn from two leaders shaping Glasgow’s hospitality and events landscape  
  • Expand your network in a supportive, welcoming environment  
  • Be part of a conversation about the future of a more connected tourism sector  

Whether you’re working in hospitality, events, marketing, or beyond, this session offers a chance to step back, think differently, and explore how collaboration can power your next chapter. 

Join us in Glasgow 

We’ll be gathering at The Delphine, a vibrant venue in the heart of Princes Square, for a morning designed to spark ideas and connections. 

Date: Thursday 4 June
Time: 9:00–11:00am
Location: The Delphine, Princes Square, Glasgow 

Tickets:
Members £15
Non-members £20 

Tea, coffee and pastries are included. 

Book your place here

Spaces are limited, and we recommend booking early to avoid missing out. 

Join us for a morning of fresh thinking, shared ambition, and meaningful connection. Because when Glasgow works together, it truly shines. 

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Aberdeen event: networking, inspiration and alcohol-free cocktails

You don’t need alcohol to enjoy yourself, and you certainly don’t need it to connect, learn, and feel inspired.

Women in Tourism is delighted to invite our community to a special evening of conversation and connection at SOBR, Scotland’s first fully sober bar, right in the heart of Aberdeen. This event brings together networking, fresh perspectives, and a chance to experience a hospitality concept that is quietly reshaping how we think about social spaces.

At the heart of SOBR is a simple but powerful idea: great experiences don’t need alcohol. Since opening its doors in autumn 2025, SOBR has gone from strength to strength, earning a place among the world’s Top 10 sober bars as recognised by The Spirits Business. It’s a space designed for everyone, welcoming, inclusive, and centred on wellbeing without compromise.

An evening with Kate Kenyon, founder of SOBR

We’ll be joined by Kate Kenyon, who will share her journey and the motivation behind creating SOBR. Kate’s story is one of purpose-led entrepreneurship and bold thinking, offering insight into what it takes to build something genuinely different within the tourism and hospitality sector.

Her experience speaks directly to the Women in Tourism mission: supporting women who are shaping the future of the industry on their own terms, and creating spaces where others can thrive.

Event programme

  • 18:00 Arrival and refreshments. Enjoy an alcohol-free cocktail of your choice

  • 18:30 Welcome from Women in Tourism

  • 18:40 Guest speaker: Kate Kenyon, Founder of SOBR

  • 19:00 Q&A and continued networking

The evening is designed to be relaxed and conversational, with plenty of time to meet new faces, reconnect with familiar ones, and continue the discussion sparked by Kate’s talk.

Why attend?

  • Be inspired by Kate’s story, one of many women leaders shaping tourism in the North East

  • Grow your professional network in a friendly, supportive environment

  • Enjoy a social evening without alcohol and wake up the next morning feeling fresh and energised

Whether you work in hospitality, destination marketing, travel, visitor attractions, or a supporting role across the sector, this event offers a chance to step away from the everyday and reconnect with the bigger picture.

Book your place

Spaces for this Aberdeen event are limited, and we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

We’d love to see you there and to welcome you into another evening of thoughtful conversation, shared learning, and genuine connection.

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Jill Walker VisitScotland

International Women’s Day 2026: “Give to Gain” at Strathclyde University

Celebrate International Women’s Day with WIT

Women in Tourism invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with an inspiring evening of connection, collaboration and collective growth. 

Taking place on Thursday 5 March 2026 from 4pm to 7pm at the Strathclyde University Technology & Innovation Centre, Executive Suite, this special event explores the theme “Give to Gain” – celebrating how generosity, mentorship and shared experience help women across tourism and hospitality thrive. 

We’re delighted to welcome Jill Walker of VisitScotland as our guest speaker, sharing industry insights and updates that shine a light on the opportunities ahead for Scotland’s vibrant tourism sector. 

The event also features a selection of taster sessions designed to inspire and connect. Tartan Retreats are confirmed to participate, with more contributors to be announced soon. 

Programme highlights   

  • 4.00 – 4.30 pm: Arrival, tea/coffee and networking
  • 4.30 – 5.00 pm: VisitScotland update with Jill Walker
  • 5.00 – 6.00 pm: Taster sessions and short talks
  • 6.00 – 7.00 pm: Networking drinks and canapés 

Tickets 

  • £25 for Women in Tourism members 
  • £30 for non-members 

This International Women’s Day, come together with peers and allies to celebrate women’s achievements, share ideas and build supportive connections that help everyone grow. 

Book your place now 

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Celia Joicey, Dovecot Studios
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Women in Tourism Leadership Evening at Dovecot Studios 

Leadership, creativity and connection: join us for our January Women in Tourism event 

Women in Tourism is delighted to begin 2026 with an inspiring evening focused on leadership, creativity and connection. 

Taking place on Wednesday 14 January 2026 at 6pm at Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh, this special event will welcome Celia Joicey, Director of Dovecot Studios. Celia will share insights from her leadership journey, her experiences in the cultural sector and her role in shaping one of Scotland’s most treasured creative institutions. 

A celebration of design and innovation 

Your ticket includes two glasses of fizz and exclusive entry to the IKEA Museum’s Magical Patterns exhibition. This vibrant exhibition celebrates 60 years of innovative textile design, featuring 180 iconic fabrics that showcase IKEA’s commitment to creativity, collaboration and experimentation. As part of the evening, you will enjoy a guided tour that brings these stories to life. 

Who is the event for? 

This session is designed for women at every stage of their career. Whether you are stepping into leadership for the first time or looking to build your confidence and influence, you will find a warm and welcoming environment to learn, reflect and grow. 

Why attend? 

✨ Hear from an established leader in Scotland’s cultural and tourism landscape
🤝 Connect with a supportive community of women across the sector
💡 Gain practical insights to strengthen your own leadership journey 

Tickets 

£15 for WIT members
£20 for non members 

Your ticket includes two glasses of fizz and entry to the Magical Patterns exhibition. 

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of inspiration, creativity and community.
Book your place now. 

 

 

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Women in Tourism Christmas Drinks at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery

As 2025 draws to a close, join Women in Tourism for an evening of festive cheer, good conversation and inspiring company at our Christmas Drinks. 

On Monday 1 December, we’ll gather in the Distillery Bar at the award-winning Edinburgh Gin Distillery for a relaxed evening of networking, laughter and connection. Your ticket includes two gin and tonics (or soft drinks), and the bar will remain open to the public after 8pm for anyone who’d like to stay on and continue the celebrations. 

This is a brilliant opportunity to reconnect with friends, meet new faces from across the tourism sector, and raise a glass to a busy and inspiring year. 

Event details:

📅 Date: Monday 1 December 2025

📍 Venue: Distillery Bar, Edinburgh Gin Distillery

🕕 Time: 6pm – 8pm (bar open to the public from 8pm)

🎟️ Tickets: £20 (members) / £25 (non-members)

🥂 Includes: Two gin and tonics or soft drinks 

Step into wonder at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery — proudly named Scottish Gin Distillery of the Year and Gin Tourist Destination of the Year. Beneath Edinburgh’s historic arches, imagination meets craftsmanship in award-winning experiences, from immersive tours to hands-on gin making and rooftop cocktails with a view. 

Places are limited to 100 guests, so book early to secure your spot. 

👉 Book your ticket now

Edinburgh Gin Distillery Logo Edinburgh Gin Distillery

 

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Women in Tourism Dumfries & Galloway event: hear from Avive Asbridge, Emma McMurtie-Crawford & Melanie Allen

This event has been postponed to the Spring of 2026

This November, Women in Tourism will host its first event in Dumfries & Galloway at Castle Douglas with an event designed to connect, inspire and empower women across the tourism sector.  

On Tuesday 11 November, join us at the Ernespie Farm in the ‘Gelato Hut’ (it’s never too cold for Gelato!), Old Military Road, Castle Douglas Dumfries and Galloway for a morning of networking, learning and conversation in Edinburgh.  

We’re thrilled to welcome two inspiring speakers to share their stories:  

  • Avive Asbridge, Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities 
  • Emma McMurtrie – Crawford, Castle Douglas Civic Week/Market Inn Hotel  
  • Melanie Allen, director of Go Innovate, Vice-Chair of SCOTO CIC 

Together, they’ll discuss their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the importance of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration.  

OurBoard Member, Lesley Wood, will open the event with a warm welcome before we dive into the conversations.  

Whether you’re working in hospitality, attractions, digital marketing or destination management, this is a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and take away new ideas to support your career journey.  

Event details  

  • 📅 Date: Tuesday 11 November, 10.30am arrival for 11am start
  • 📍 Venue: Ernespie Farm ‘Gelato Hut’, Old Military Road, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway 
  • 🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members  

  Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised.  

👉 Book your ticket now 

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Women in Tourism Aberdeen event: hear from Claire Bruce & Raeanne Verlegh

This November, Women in Tourism is delighted to be coming to Aberdeen for a morning of connection, conversation and inspiration. 

On Monday 10 November, join us at the Douglas Hotel in the heart of Aberdeen, for a networking event designed to support and empower women across the tourism sector. 

We’re thrilled to welcome two accomplished speakers with deep roots in the North-east: 

  • Claire Bruce, Co-CEO of Glen Tanar Estate and former Chair of VisitAberdeenshire, has dedicated nearly 20 years to tourism in the region. From leading on responsible development at Glen Tanar to mentoring local entrepreneurs, Claire brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainable tourism. 
  • Raeanne Verlegh, Travel Trade and Venue Hire Business Development Manager at the National Trust for Scotland, has built her career in the North-east and beyond, with experience at VisitAberdeenshire and in business travel. She is passionate about product development, strong partnerships and the power of Scotland’s heritage in tourism. 

 

Together, they’ll share their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the value of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration. 

Whether you’re working in attractions, hospitality, events or destination management, this is a chance to meet like-minded professionals and take away fresh ideas for your career journey. 

Event details 

📅 Date: Monday 10 November 2025, 10:30 – 12:30 
📍 Venue: Douglas Hotel, 43-45 Market St, Aberdeen AB11 5EL 
🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members 

👉 Book your ticket now

Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. 

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Women in Tourism Edinburgh event: hear from Kat Brogan & Jill Walker

This September, Women in Tourism returns to Edinburgh with an event designed to connect, inspire and empower women across the tourism sector. 

On Tuesday 30 September, join us at the beautiful Kimpton Hotel, Charlotte Square,  for a morning of networking, learning and conversation in Edinburgh. 

We’re thrilled to welcome two accomplished industry leaders to share their stories: 

  • Kat Brogan, Managing Director of Mercat Tours, one of Edinburgh’s leading tour companies. 
  • Jill Walker, Director of Marketing & Digital at VisitScotland, with an impressive career spanning agency leadership, government, and national tourism marketing. 

Together, they’ll discuss their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the importance of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration. 

Our Chair, Lesley Williams, will open the event with a warm welcome before we dive into the conversations. 

Whether you’re working in hospitality, attractions, digital marketing or destination management, this is a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and take away new ideas to support your career journey. 

Event details 

  • 📅 Date: Tuesday 30 September, 09:30 – 11:30 
  • 📍 Venue: The Garden @ Kimpton Hotel, Charlotte Square, Edinburgh 
  • 🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members 

Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. 

👉 Book your ticket now

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