Alumni Spotlight: Yared Bizuneh

Yared Bizuneh is a successful entrepreneur, tourism advocate, and innovator – and former student of �ڹϳ�����.

In 1996, Yared joined Hammersmith and Fulham College to study Travel and Tourism, a decision that marked the beginning of his inspiring journey in the global travel industry. Over two years, he cultivated a deep interest in people, cultures, and the art of connecting them through tourism. Upon successfully completing his course in 1998, Yared began a career that would take him across continents, exploring the rich diversity of human experiences and championing African tourism on the global stage.

Yared credits his time at �ڹϳ����� with laying the foundation for his professional success. The knowledge, skills, and cultural awareness he developed during his studies gave him the confidence to excel in a competitive industry and pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.

As the Founder and Director General of Africa Travel Connect, Yared has become a leader in the tourism sector, developing innovative solutions to bridge cultural gaps and promote Africa as a premier travel destination. His work spans B2B travel technology, strategic consulting, and the representation of airlines, cruise companies, and destination management organizations. He is driven by a vision of uniting tourism boards, operators, and media to elevate Africa’s presence in the global tourism market, focusing on sustainable growth and cultural celebration.

“�ڹϳ����� was a pivotal stepping stone for me. The exceptional teachers and diverse learning environment gave me the skills and confidence I needed to pursue my passion for travel and cultural connection. Travel gives you an invaluable perspective on life, a deeper understanding of humanity, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of our world. This field has shown me the value of diversity, the joy of discovery, and the magic of human connection.”

Yared’s leadership has garnered recognition for his innovative contributions to the travel industry. His work continues to inspire, as he fosters global partnerships and leverages technology to empower African destinations. Through Africa Travel Connect, Yared is not only shaping the future of African tourism but also advocating for the transformative power of travel to bring people together and celebrate diversity.

“My advice to those considering their next steps is simple: serve people, not profit. In the tourism industry – and in life – it’s the relationships you nurture, the trust you build, and the people you touch that define true success. Approach every interaction with kindness and authenticity, and you’ll leave a lasting impact. Be patient and resilient; success doesn’t happen overnight. Each role and experience is a stepping stone, so embrace the journey and learn from every moment. Keep expanding your skills – learning is your greatest asset. Seek opportunities to grow, adapt, and broaden your horizons, as these will prepare you for the challenges ahead.

“Most importantly, value honesty and integrity as the foundation of your career. These principles will keep you grounded and respected over time. Show up and fully engage in every situation. Be present, because your network is invaluable – you never know who you’ll meet or where it might lead. The experiences and education I gained at �ڹϳ����� were instrumental in shaping my journey. With kindness, purpose, and relentless belief in yourself, anything is possible.”