Fifty lucky Flight Centre Independent members from around the world were treated to four days of island luxury in the Maldives as part of the brand’s most prestigious annual reward event, Icons.
The attendees represent the top 10 selling advisors from each of Flight Centre Independents five regions: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Along with a guest of their choice, Icons were flown to Heritance Aarah Maldives Resort via private sea plane and greeted with spa vouchers and champagne before commencing four days of celebration, exploration and rejuvenation.
Global Managing Director Danielle Galloway said Icons encapsulate the essence of what it means to be a Flight Centre Independent member.
“Icons is not just a reward but a testament to the extraordinary efforts of the people who strive for excellence and help propel our brand forward.
“As we gather at the breathtaking Heritance Aarah Resort, we celebrate not only individual achievements but the collective spirit that unites us as the Flight Centre Independent family. The heart of the Maldives perfectly aligns with our vision of being the home and heart of the travel industry, where aspiration, connection, and exceptional experience converge.
“I cherish the opportunity to connect with our highest performing members and wonderful event partners every year at Icons and come away so energised from each conversation. We have some incredible entrepreneurs as part of our global network.”
Chantal Gouws, GM of South Africa, said the retreat provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate its extraordinary members and connect with other regions.
“Watching our members not only celebrate their achievements but connect with the extended global family to share advice and form friendships was incredibly rewarding and is reflective of the brand’s core values – engagement, entrepreneurship and endurance.
“The Maldives is a truly aspirational destination that relaxes and inspires, which is exactly how we wanted our members to feel when they walked away from this four-day celebration.”
Rachel Beaumont-Smith, Journey Beyond Strategic Account Manager said the organisation is honoured to have been a platinum partner of Icons 2024.
“The connections forged during this event are truly invaluable and are sure to last a lifetime. The genuine interest and professionalism displayed by the group towards our incredible range of Journey Beyond experiences is inspiring.
“We are looking forward to further integrating Flight Centre Independent into Journey Beyond’s strategic sales strategy and solidifying our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to the travel industry globally.
“This partnership marks an exciting chapter for Journey Beyond.”
Ama Waterways and Europ Assistance were also platinum partners for the event. Gold Partners included Azamara Cruises, Cover More Travel Insurance, Exoticca, Expedia TAAP, Intrepid Travel, Addicted to Maldives, Viking Cruises and Inclusive Collection, part of the World of Hyatt. Etihad Airways was a Silver Partner of Icons 2024.
Flight Centre Independent recently announced South Africa as the location of Icons 2025, which will follow the brand’s largest annual event, Worldwide, also hosted in South Africa. Worldwide is open to all Flight Centre Independent members and features partner exhibits, engaging panel sessions, and hand-selected speakers focusing on topics that empower Flight Centre Independent members to thrive.
LEFT TO RIGHT: Nick Queale, GM Australia; Anita Emilio, VP & GM Canada; Chantal Gouws, GM South Africa; Danielle Galloway, Global Managing Director; Astrid Richardson, Director of Operations; Christina Pedroni, VP & GM USA and Jason Buckley, GM New Zealand.
ENDS
Note to editors:
About Flight Centre and FCTG Independent
After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) (ASX:FLT), has enjoyed remarkable growth to become a $20 billion business consisting of more than 30 brands. One of the world’s largest travel agency groups, it has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. FCTG was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995 (ASX: FLT). Flight Centre Travel Group employs more than 11,000 people globally.
FCTG Independent is a global network of over 1,400 independent travel agents and agencies across the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Tracy Porter
Phone: +27 (0)82 891 4353
Email: tracy.porter@flightcentre.co.za