Leading Across Borders: How Latina Leaders Are Shaping the Future of Travel

What does it take to lead across cultures, build trust in global markets and turn a distinct perspective into a leadership advantage?

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Women Leading Travel brought together three Latina leaders whose careers span global tourism, hospitality, sports, entertainment and luxury travel for a candid conversation about the experiences shaping how they lead and the impact they hope to leave behind.

Moderated by Rosa Maria Contell, Attendee Sales Manager at Skift, the conversation featured Luisa Mendoza, Founder & CEO of GTSE (Global Tourism Sports & Entertainment); Maria Olazabal, Founder & CEO of Ownia Collection; and Claudia Tellez, Director of International Brand Strategy and Operations at Choice Hotels.

Together, they explored how heritage and lived experience can become leadership strengths, what it takes to build relationships and make decisions across cultures, and how leaders can stay grounded in their values while navigating growth and change.

The panelists also shared perspectives from their own corners of the industry, from the growing role of sports and entertainment as tourism drivers and the evolution of purpose-driven luxury travel to the challenges global brands face when connecting authentically with consumers across markets.

But the conversation went beyond business strategy. The leaders reflected on mentorship, community and the responsibility senior executives and organizations have to create greater access, visibility and advancement opportunities for Latina talent. And looking ahead, they shared what they hope the next generation of Latina leaders will experience differently as they build their own careers in travel and hospitality.

Watch the full conversation below to hear their perspectives on leading across borders, driving growth and helping shape a more inclusive future for travel.