It has been a fantastic feeling to start international travel again in recent weeks.

IMI has been on the road in both Asia and Africa with Professor Gavin Caldwell visiting our partner school Australasian Academy (AA) in Sri Lanka and Regional Manager Wilton Carvalho attending a series of education fairs and school visits in Kenya.

After two years of meetings being held digitally and new agreements (and even signing ceremonies) taking place online, it is so nice to make human contact again with face-to-face interaction.

Professor Caldwell's visit was IMI’s first in-person meeting with representatives of AA following the launch of IMI's programmes from Certificate to Higher Diploma level at their school in October 2021.

The visit was also timed to coincide with AA’s graduation ceremony celebrating the hard work and achievements of their students.

Commenting on the visit, Professor Caldwell said: “It is always an honour to attend the graduation ceremonies of our partner schools, and this felt especially special after the previous two years of limited to no travel.

“We are very proud of our relationship with the Australasian Academy and our shared vision to educate students to the highest standards in preparing them for the challenges of the hospitality and tourism industry.”

During his time in Kenya, Wilton met with many prospective students and their families as well as re-connecting with our agents and regional representatives in the country.

“It was such a good feeling to have face-to-face meetings again,” he said.

“Although we were lucky that technology allowed us all to keep in touch, during the Covid period, it isn’t the same feeling as sitting opposite someone and looking them in the eye – it’s great to be back!”

We are optimistic that the last few weeks will be the start of a trend that grows over the remainder of the year and we can’t wait to visit our many international partners and friends as soon as possible!