Spotlight on Devi Virdi, 2021 WINiT Top 50 Women in Travel Recipient

As Head of Diversity and Inclusion at RaizUp (formerly known as Women in Hospitality & Travel-Tech), Devi is focused on delivering the organization’s mission of supporting, inspiring and promoting women and underrepresented groups within the hospitality and travel tech industry. In her role, she supports partner organizations across the industry in building their global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) strategies. Devi is involved with the D&I Leaders Association and is a mentor with Women in Travel CiC, Fast Forward 15 and The Girls Network.

How do you feel about receiving this recognition from WINiT?
I feel incredibly honored to be recognized for my work in diversity and inclusion. Although it has been a challenging year, I’m a passionate believer that we’re all in a position of influence and can be part of positive change.

Are things getting better for women in the business travel industry or is there still work to be done?
The travel industry has the obligation and opportunity to create a more equitable global industry. I have been privileged to work in our industry that intrinsically promotes inclusion by bringing people together. While there is still much work to be done to create a level playing field, I have hope. As we rebuild and reimagine a more sustainable and equitable travel sector, at the top of the agenda must be racial equity, corporate diversity and gender equality.

What advice would you give to women just starting their careers in business travel?
Take risks, don’t be afraid to fail and take on new challenges or opportunities. My career path was not obvious; I had to take many twists and turns along the way to get where I am today…and I’m only halfway there! It requires taking some chances, risks and being bold, but those were the moments I learned the most. Without challenging yourself, growth opportunities are limited. So, take those risks – you will be better for it in the long run, regardless of the short-term outcome.