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TIME takes off with Qantas partnership to back next-gen travel leaders

Mentoring program TIME has partnered with Qantas from May 2026, with the airline hosting its next intake and graduation event at Mascot headquarters.

Travel Industry Mentor Experience (TIME) has teamed up with  Qantas with the national carrier set to host the program’s next intake and graduation event at its Mascot headquarters.

The new tie-up between the not-for-profit mentoring program and the airline took effect in May 2026 to support emerging professionals across travel, tourism, hospitality and aviation.

The agreement frames the airline’s involvement as part of a broader commitment to developing the next generation of leaders across sectors built on experience, connection and shared knowledge.

As part of the partnership, Qantas will host TIME’s next program intake and graduation networking event at its Mascot headquarters in Sydney on 4 June 2026, bringing together mentors, mentees, graduates and industry supporters.

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TIME Chair Penny Spencer.

TIME Chair Penny Spencer said that the mentoring program had long aspired to work alongside the national carrier since its inception and that the new partnership represents an important endorsement of its purpose.

“We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with Qantas. This relationship has been years in the making and it’s incredibly rewarding to see one of Australia’s most iconic brands actively supporting the people within our industry,” she said.

“Qantas understands the value of mentorship, leadership and giving back, and we are thrilled to be working together to help shape the next generation of industry leaders.”

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Qantas Executive Manager Australasia Sales, Distribution & Modern Retailing Kathryn Robertson.

Qantas Executive Manager Australasia Sales, Distribution & Modern Retailing Kathryn Robertson said mentoring programs play an important role in developing great talent in the industry.

“Qantas is committed to supporting the next generation of leaders across travel, tourism and aviation, and we’re proud to partner with TIME to help foster that growth and connection across our industry,” she said.

What it means for travel advisors

New mentees for TIME in Feb 2025.
TIME mentee cohort.

The mentoring program pairs emerging travel professionals with experienced industry leaders to provide guidance, confidence and career direction with mentor representation across aviation, cruise, wholesale, retail travel, tourism and hospitality.

For advisors, the program is a route to develop staff and build career pathways, while the QF link adds a high-profile partner to a network that runs on mentors and supporting organisations.

TIME encourages aspiring mentees, experienced mentors and organisations interested in supporting the program to get involved.