How compassion and community helped Sarah Winkworth thrive

Sarah Winkworth’s journey with Travel Counsellors shows what’s possible when genuine support is in place. Achieving Gold status (one of the highest recognitions in the Travel Counsellors community) in just four months, Sarah’s story is one of resilience, belief and the power of genuine human connection.

When Sarah joined Travel Counsellors, she wasn’t actively seeking a new career. But what began as a conversation would go on to shape an entirely new chapter, offering her the flexibility, understanding and support she needed to thrive both professionally and personally.

A connection rooted in care

When Sarah was first contacted by Travel Counsellors nearly five years ago, she wasn’t considering a move. She was settled in her role within a travel management company and had no plans to start her own business. But from the outset, the conversations felt refreshingly different.

“Ashley, one of the Franchise Recruiters, was such a lovely person,” Sarah explains. “We would quite often chat over messages on LinkedIn. I was very happy in my role and wasn’t looking to move, let alone set up my own business.”

During a period of serious health challenges, those conversations took on greater significance. The approach felt human rather than transactional. It was thoughtful, consistent and grounded in genuine care.

“Ashley showed me more compassion and empathy in one message than I’d experienced from anyone else work related,” Sarah says. “She was a breath of fresh air, and I knew then that I would be joining TC very soon.”

A business model rooted in understanding

At that point in her life, Sarah needed flexibility, honesty and understanding — qualities that can be hard to find in many workplaces. Travel Counsellors offered more than a business opportunity; it offered a community built on care and real support.

Since making that leap, Sarah hasn’t looked back. Earning Gold status so quickly is clear proof of what’s possible with the right foundation. This recognition is reserved for the top 12% of Travel Counsellors worldwide, based on their exceptional earning as a result of going beyond for their customers.

Reflecting on what drove her quick success, Sarah says, “The support and warmth I received from other Travel Counsellors and Head Office was immense. It’s something I’d never experienced before. Nothing’s ever too much trouble for anyone.”

A community that empowers you daily

For Sarah, Travel Counsellors’ community has been central to both career success and wellbeing. Being part of a group that truly wants you to succeed makes a world of difference. From experienced mentors to supportive colleagues, there’s always someone ready to help. Sarah’s mentor and friend Jodie Kerr, along with fellow Travel Counsellor Emily Saunders, have made a real impact. “They both go out of their way, every day, to help and support me,” Sarah says. “Emily helped me at 8am on a Sunday morning when I’d only been here seven days, that says everything.”

When asked what stands out most about Travel Counsellors, Sarah doesn’t hesitate: “The camaraderie, definitely. The whole community just shows up for one another.”

Creating sustainable success

What makes Sarah’s success particularly meaningful is that it hasn’t come at the expense of her wellbeing. Her trusted assistant, Audrey, plays an important role in creating balance.

“I’ve worked with my assistant for over ten years and trust her completely,” she says. “She’s the best assistant anyone could ask for. During quieter times, I can work three to five days a week, instead of seven, all thanks to Audrey. I simply couldn’t run my business without her.”

That flexibility has transformed Sarah’s life. “I’m so much more relaxed and less stressed than before,” she reflects. “Running my own company has felt natural, probably because I always managed my area like a business, even when I was employed. This just feels like the right next step.”

And the highlight? “The people I work with every day. Everyone’s so inspiring.”

Advice for those seeking more

Sarah’s message to anyone feeling overlooked or unsupported in their current job is refreshingly direct: “OMG — absolutely contact us at Travel Counsellors. I wish I’d done this years ago.” Her experience shows that when you find a community that believes in you and invests in your growth, it can change everything.

Discover your potential with Travel Counsellors

Sarah’s journey proves that lasting success is built through compassion, community and belief — in yourself and in the support around you. If you’re looking for a career where you’re understood, valued and empowered to thrive on your own terms, Travel Counsellors could be the right next step. Why not join us at one of our Discovery Days to hear real stories, ask honest questions and explore what life as a Travel Counsellor could look like for you.