Many advisors join Fora for the flexibility. Caregiving, work and other obligations should not prevent you from building and scaling a successful travel business. But working remotely can get lonely sometimes, and few things compare to in-person interaction. We wanted to create a space in which advisors could connect with each other both on and offline, so we introduced Fora Chapters.
Fora’s Chapters are localized groups of advisors in cities around the world, from London to Atlanta, Phoenix to Dallas. As Fora grows, so too will the number of Chapter cities (Houston and Mexico City are next!). We take community seriously, and we actively support community-based initiatives to invest in you and your business. When you join Fora, you’re part of a diverse group of people who support each other.
Every Fora Chapter has a designated leader, a stellar Fora Advisor who has fulfilled specific business requirements. Chapter Leaders organize events, site visits and working sessions. They also act as a liaison between advisors and partners.
London’s Chapter Lead Tara Anbudaiyan organized a co-working session at 1 Hotel Mayfair, for instance. Dallas’ Chapter Leader Kaitlan Leonard set up a dinner between local advisors and Hicham Alaoui, the co-founder of Experience Morocco, one of our top DMC partners. Whether it's a partner-hosted cocktail hour or a local museum visit, Chapter events are collaborative and interactive.
“Working as independent contractors from home can often feel isolating, and even minor challenges can have a significant negative impact,” Fora Advisor Steve Michailidis, part of our London Chapter, said. “Being part of a Chapter has provided a sense of connection, support, and camaraderie that makes the experience far more rewarding — and fun!”
Advisors trade tips, ask questions, and share personal challenges. They’re always learning from each other; Chapters help accelerate that learning and connection.
Chapters were built on community. They were also designed to help advisors scale their businesses and develop more efficient processes. Joining a Chapter opens doors and facilitates industry connections that otherwise would not have been available.
“Chapters provide opportunities for professional and personal growth through networking, connection, and knowledge sharing,” South Florida’s Chapter Leader Teresa Fox said. “Local Chapters offer the much-sought-after opportunity to connect in person.”
Steve shared that his Chapter has allowed him to raise concerns and develop solutions specific to his region. He also mentioned that he learns from newcomers and pros alike.
“The connections I’ve made through my Chapter have boosted my confidence and helped me refine my strategies,” Steve said, “ultimately leading to better client experiences and increased bookings.”
Fora Chapters can make other in-person events more meaningful. Live Forum, our biggest event of the year, brings advisors and partners together in New York for three days of “speed dating,” workshops, and strategic planning. Chapter members always seem to have the best time. They even independently organize pre- and post-conference site visits in the city.
Entrepreneurship — and all travel advisors are entrepreneurs — is fulfilling, challenging work. Building a business takes time and dedication. It also takes support. Chapters help you get where you want to be.
They “bring continuity and approachability to the goals of Fora,” Atlanta’s Chapter Leader Juli Hall said. “Chapters help people see they are part of the larger picture and part of something real.”
If you’d like to join our collaborative travel community, apply to become a Fora Advisor today. We can’t wait to welcome you.