From charity to travel – Suzy's career transformation with Travel Counsellors

Looking for a career change, but not sure where to begin? Suzy was in the same position just a couple of years ago. After a decade in the charity sector, she discovered Travel Counsellors through a friend — and one simple step changed everything. By attending a Conference Discovery Day, she unlocked a brand-new career, a supportive community, and a fresh sense of purpose.

With our 2025 Discovery Day in Liverpool on 8th November fast approaching, Suzy’s story is the perfect example of how one decision can transform your future.

A change of direction

“After 10 years in my previous charity role, and with my children off to university, I decided it was time for a possible career change. I’ve always been interested in travel and loved researching holidays and places to visit.” Suzy said.

Having a friend who was already a Travel Counsellor, Suzy was already aware of us, but she was keen to find out more.

“My friend recommended Travel Counsellors as she thought I’d love it – and it turns out she was right! I started researching as I didn’t know much about how it all works, and when I saw the Discovery Day, I booked onto it straight away. I didn’t actually realise at the time that it coincided with Conference (in hindsight, this was a big turning point for me), and I’ve never looked back.”

Taking the first step towards transforming her life

Describing the atmosphere at the Conference Discovery Day as “buzzing from start to finish”, attending the event turned out to be a life-changing decision for Suzy.

“I got a real sense of the spirit of Travel Counsellors on that day”, Suzy reflects. “It honestly couldn’t have been better. The day was fabulous as there was a mix of conference sessions, small group presentations, one-to-ones, and the opportunity to meet so many people. It gave me a real insight into what my future with Travel Counsellors could look like.

“The funny thing was my husband came with me, as he said I’d be so wowed by it all that I’d forget to ask the important questions! It turns out we were both totally wowed, and the minute we walked out, we both agreed that I should do it. I handed my notice in on the Monday morning, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

So, what was it specifically about the day that sealed the deal for Suzy? “For me, it was CEO Steve Byrne’s chat with the group”, she said. “I say chat, because it felt real, honest, and from the heart. He was very open that Travel Counsellors is not right for everyone, but absolutely right for some. It wasn’t a hard sell, which was important. After an amazing day, Steve’s words really made me want to join the Travel Counsellors community and do something different.

Riding the waves of entrepreneurship

Now coming up to her two-year anniversary as a Travel Counsellor, Suzy describes how her journey as a travel business owner has been so far. “It’s been fabulous, uplifting, and exhausting, but it’s stretched me – it’s like a rollercoaster! It’s not always plain sailing, but it’s given me a new lease of life and made me realise what’s possible. I honestly wish I’d done it years ago!”

Suzy’s advice to anyone considering a career switch

With places at our 2025 Conference Discovery Day filling fast, Suzy shares her advice to anyone who’s on the fence about joining us in Liverpool on 8th November.

“Go! Just go! Even if you’re not sure and in two minds, go and see what it’s all about and it will give you an idea about what life’s like as a Travel Counsellor. The Conference Discovery Day is probably one of the best opportunities too as you’ll meet so many people. Have an open mind, soak it all up, and enjoy the ride – it’s brilliant!”

Are you ready to change your life, just like Suzy did? Register now for a Discovery Day you won’t want to miss! We’d love to welcome you in Liverpool on Saturday 8th November, where you can get a sneak peek into our flagship event, meet Travel Counsellors who are thriving, and mingle with a very special guest! Grab one of the final spots here.