There was no home advantage here… just heart. MTA’s Alison McGovern took out the award for Most Outstanding Mobile/Home Based Travel Advisor at NTIA 2025, proving that success in travel doesn’t need a shopfront, just passion, purpose and people skills.
We caught up with Alison fresh from her win to talk flexibility, mentorship and a little travel magic.
Congratulations on the win… what does this award mean to you personally and professionally?
This award is an incredible honour. Personally, it represents years of dedication and unwavering commitment to my clients.
Professionally, it validates the home-based model that MTA champions, proving that exceptional service isn’t defined by a shopfront location, but by the depth of relationships we build.
It celebrates the passion, ethics and innovation that MTA agents bring to the industry every day and I’m proud to represent what’s possible when you combine flexibility with genuine care.
What are you most excited about that’s coming up – either for yourself, the travel industry or travel broadly?
I’m excited that travel is becoming deeply human again; technology enhances rather than replaces the empathy and expertise that define great travel advising.
Home-based agents like those within the MTA network are uniquely positioned for this shift; our flexibility, personal connections and agility mean we can help shape the next era of travel, delivering personalised service that others simply can’t match.
What does the future look like for you?
I’m focused on deepening industry partnerships and mentoring emerging talent within the MTA community.
The future isn’t just about business growth; it’s about growing influence and ensuring every traveller feels genuinely cared for.
As the travel industry evolves, I want to help shape what exceptional mobile advising looks like and support the next generation of MTA agents.
Do you have some advice for anyone considering a career in mobile advising?
Understand that mobile travel advising is about connection and commitment – it’s not where you work, but how deeply you care.
The most successful advisors are business owners at heart, self-motivated, organised and driven to create meaningful experiences.
Choosing the right host agency is crucial; that’s why I’m with MTA. Their support structure gives you flexibility while providing the training, technology and community you need to thrive. This career requires discipline and resilience, but the rewards are extraordinary.
What do you love most about your job and/or the travel industry?
Being a travel agent is about crafting journeys that change lives, not just booking trips.
The best part is the relationships – knowing that every interaction can lift someone’s spirits, ease their worries or spark genuine excitement.
Through MTA‘s support and resources, I have the freedom to deliver joy, security and discovery to my clients every single day. That continuous opportunity to make a difference is what keeps me passionate about this industry.
Care to share a fun travel tip that you swear by when exploring new places?
Sit back, relax and watch the world go by. There’s something magical about soaking in the local rhythm without rushing – just taking in every detail as life unfolds around you. And while you do, try the local food. It’s the best way to taste a place’s soul, discover authentic flavours and connect with the culture.
Sometimes the best adventures happen when you pause and truly savour the moment.
If you could have any superpower (for one workday), what would it be?
My superpower would be the power of instantaneous, perfect problem-solving and connection. This superpower would let me instantly resolve any client issue, whether it’s a last-minute change, flight delay or lost luggage, without delay or stress.
The dazzling NTIA 2025 gala brought together over a thousand professionals and stakeholders to honour excellence, innovation and resilience – and, of course, to party in true travel style. Read our wrap of the event and more here.
Images by Pat Brunet / Event Photos Australia (except group shot)
