Meet The Team
Meet the Team
Our trainers and mentors aren’t just educators—they’re experienced travel professionals who bring decades of industry knowledge, heart, and commitment into every program we run.
Marissa Papas
The driving force behind the company, Marissa brings two decades of hands-on experience, industry insight, and an unwavering commitment to raising the standard of travel education.
From her early days as a travel consultant to business owner and qualified trainer, she saw the gaps in industry training and launched the Academy in 2019 to deliver practical, globally recognised education that truly prepares people for the industry.
In 2024, Marissa was a finalist for Mentor of the Year at the Women in Travel Awards. With a passion for developing others, she leads with heart, integrity, and a commitment to building confident, capable travel professionals.
Kathy Purves
Kathy Purves is a seasoned travel professional and educator with over 30 years of experience across nearly every corner of the industry.
From corporate and leisure consulting to sales management, training, and recruitment, Kathy’s held a wide variety of roles with some of the most respected names in travel. She’s delivered Certificate III to Diploma level qualifications and played a key role in developing nationally recognised training resources.
With a particular love for cruising, Kathy brings depth, structure, and warmth to everything she does at Connected Travel Academy.
Sonja Leicester
From her early days as a travel consultant to senior roles in sales, marketing, and business development for premium travel brands, she saw the need for energising, skills-based education and launched The Travel Trainer to fill that gap.
Today, Sonja delivers Certificate-level training, is an IATA-accredited instructor and a ‘Connect to Business’ trainer with the Connected Travel Academy. Known for her warmth, energy, and engaging style, she’s committed to building confident, capable travel professionals.
Kellie Browning
Kellie brings a powerhouse of knowledge, warmth and wisdom to the Connected Travel family with her experience across multiple roles in the travel industry; airline, retail agency, wholesale and business development.
Kellie’s calm, grounded presence and genuine passion for helping others grow bring serious strength to the Academy.
She’s a certified coach and one of the most well-rounded professionals in the industry. Kellie empowers aspiring and established agents to build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
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