The 2025 Kindness Conference: A Week That Changed Everything

When I think back to the 2025 Kindness Conference, one word comes to mind: transformational.

This wasn’t just a work trip. It wasn’t just another industry event. It was a gathering of passionate travel leaders from across the country, united by one mission — to make the travel industry more meaningful, more purposeful, and more kind.

And I still can’t believe I was one of them.

Honored to Be Among the Top 40 Under 40 in Travel

Out of more than 500 nominated travel professionals, I was humbled to be selected by ALG Vacations® as one of the Top 40 Under 40 Advisors making a positive impact in travel. This recognition wasn’t just about sales or success — it was about authenticity, advocacy, and kindness.

From July 21–25, I joined other young leaders at the breathtaking Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic. We came together for a week filled with inspiration, connection, and action — not just to better ourselves and our businesses, but to leave a lasting mark on the world around us.

Learning from the Best

ALG Vacations curated a powerhouse lineup of speakers who poured their wisdom, energy, and heart into every session: Scott Zimmer, Sheri Colosimo, Steve Hlavac, William Arruda, Bart Berkey, Spencer West, and the unforgettable Hoda Kotb.

Hoda was a highlight for me personally. She spoke with warmth, humor, and authenticity — sharing stories about motherhood, navigating career highs and lows, and choosing joy even in life’s toughest moments. As a fellow Type 1 diabetes mom, meeting her was a deeply personal and emotional full-circle moment.

Kindness in Action: Giving Back in Miches

One of the most powerful parts of the week was stepping outside the resort to serve the local community.

We partnered with Escuela Primaria Aquiles Peña, a rural school in Miches, to make much-needed improvements. Thanks to the funds we raised — and a generous match from ALG Vacations — we were able to:

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  Install sinks and fans in classrooms

  
  


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  Make structural repairs

  
  


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  Paint bright, joyful murals of sunshine, hearts, and flowers on the playground

  
  


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  Create welcoming, vibrant spaces that spark joy for the students

  
  

Seeing the children’s smiles as they passed by, waving and taking in the colorful new designs, made every moment of effort worth it. This is why I believe travel has the power to change the world — not just for travelers, but for the communities we visit.

Building Friendships and a Movement

This conference wasn’t just about learning — it was about connecting. I left with over 40 new friends who share my passion for transforming travel.

We laughed, cried, dreamed, and set bold goals together — even turning them into glowing lanterns during one memorable night under the stars. We know this is just the beginning. The conversations and collaborations started here will ripple out into the industry for years to come.

Why This Matters for the Future of Travel

Kindness isn’t just a feel-good concept — it’s a business strategy, a leadership approach, and a movement. When travel professionals lead with empathy, respect, and purpose, we create more meaningful experiences for our clients, our partners, and the destinations we touch.

And that’s exactly what the 2025 Kindness Conference was all about.

We are the future of travel — and we’re choosing to lead it with heart.

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If you’re a traveler who wants more than just a trip — if you want an experience that inspires, connects, and gives back — let’s start planning together.

Today, I’m sharing one of the most meaningful travel experiences of my entire career—something that truly touched my heart and reminded me why I do what I do. 🌍💛

While visiting the beautiful island of Jamaica with Sandals Resorts, I had the life-changing opportunity to participate in the Reading Road Trip with the Sandals Foundation, as part of their mission to give back to local communities through education, literacy, and empowerment.

📚 What Is the Reading Road Trip?

The Reading Road Trip is a unique community tourism program created by the Sandals Foundation, offering resort guests the chance to visit local schools and read to students. This initiative isn’t just about books—it’s about connection, compassion, and cultural exchange. And yes—it’s open to YOU too when you stay at Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts!

🏫 My Visit to Salt Spring Primary School, Montego Bay

On Read Across Jamaica Day, I visited Salt Spring Primary School in Montego Bay, where I read stories (more than once—they asked for repeats!) to four adorable second graders. We talked about:

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  Family and siblings

  
  


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  Favorite foods

  
  


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  Pets, snow, dreams, and life

  
  

These little conversations quickly turned into big connections. I didn’t just read to them—I shared a moment with them. And that moment is now part of my heart forever. 💛

🎉 Celebrating Literacy with the Sandals Foundation

As part of the celebration, the Sandals Foundation also unveiled colorful new word murals on the school walls—featuring the very vocabulary the children are learning in their books. These murals now line the paths the kids walk every day, turning literacy into something living, vibrant, and empowering.

The event was attended by teachers, school officials, the Board of Education, local media, and an inspiring group of travelers who, like me, wanted to travel with intention.

✈️ Travel with Purpose — Pack for a Purpose!

When you book a stay with Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts, you can also Pack for a Purpose. This amazing initiative encourages guests to bring school supplies, books, and educational materials in their luggage to support local schools across the Caribbean.

✨ Pro Tip: A few pencils, crayons, or notebooks go a long way—and they fit easily in your suitcase! Just hand those off to the staff at the resort and they will get them to the locals schools.

❤️ Let’s All Do This Together

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, traveler, or just someone looking to make a difference, this is your invitation: Travel with purpose. Join a Reading Road Trip. Pack a few school supplies. Take a few hours out of your vacation to read a book to a child. The impact is real—and unforgettable.

📍 Destination: Jamaica
🏨 Resort: Sandals Resorts
🧳 Experience: Reading Road Trip with the Sandals Foundation
📅 Occasion: Read Across Jamaica Day

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Follow me and let’s inspire each other to travel with heart. 💬💛

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Want help planning your own purpose-driven travel experience with Sandals or Beaches? 💌 Reach out—I’d be honored to help you plan a vacation that gives back. 🌺

Welcome to Secrets Playa Blanca Resort, where luxury meets the serene beauty of Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres! Imagine waking up to mesmerizing ocean views, feeling the warm sun on your face, and indulging in unparalleled pampering. This resort promises top-shelf drinks, luxurious suites, and flawless dining experiences. Whether you're planning a romantic escape or a fun vacation with friends, Secrets Playa Blanca offers pure indulgences that cater to every need. Dive into a world of relaxation and adventure today!

Overview of Luxurious Suites

Features of the Preferred Club Access

Mesmerizing Ocean Views

Flawless Dining Experiences

Top-Shelf Drinks and Lounge Atmosphere

Daytime Activities at Secrets Playa Blanca

• Water Sports: Dive into adventure with snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters of Playa Blanca.


• Beach Volleyball: Gather your newfound friends for a spirited game of beach volleyball right on the pristine sands.


• Cooking Classes: Test your culinary skills and learn to prepare delicious local dishes with our talented chefs.


• Yoga Classes: Start your day with a calming yoga session, enjoying the soothing ocean breeze and spectacular views.

Nighttime Activities and Entertainment Options

• Live Music and Shows: Enjoy live performances featuring talented musicians and dancers under the stars.


• Themed Parties: Dive into the excitement of unique themed parties, from beach bonfires to elegant soirées.


• Outdoor Movie Nights: Snuggle up with your loved one and enjoy a movie under the open sky.

Concierge Services for Pure Indulgences

Unparalleled Pampering at the Resort Spa

• Swedish Massages: Relieve tension with a relaxing session from our skilled massage therapists.


• Facial Treatments: Refresh and rejuvenate your skin with personalized facial treatments.


• Jacuzzi Sessions: Unwind in the spa's Jacuzzi, surrounded by tropical foliage and tranquility.

Why Choose Secrets Playa Blanca Resort for Your Vacation

• Unparalleled Pampering: Treat yourself to unrivaled pampering with top-notch concierge services and pure indulgences that leave you feeling rejuvenated.


• Luxurious Suites: Each suite is designed to provide a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, offering breathtaking views right from your room.


• Flawless Dining: Savor a world of flavors with seamless dining experiences that cater to every palate.


• Nighttime Activities: As the sun sets, the resort comes alive with entertainment options that will captivate and delight all night long.