Karenin Gambetta, EGI EDUCATION

Tell us about your role, your journey to this position, and how your work contributes to your organisation’s success

As Founder and CEO of EGI Education, I lead our strategic vision, international partnerships, and programme development. For more than two decades, I have worked to create meaningful educational travel experiences that transform lives, while building strong relationships with institutions worldwide. My greatest contribution is connecting people, cultures, and educational opportunities with a long-term vision.

What has been the most rewarding experience or achievement in your career so far?

The most rewarding achievement has been seeing thousands of students, teachers, and education professionals return home with greater confidence, new perspectives, and lifelong international connections. Knowing that EGI has positively impacted so many lives is my greatest professional satisfaction.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received, and how has it influenced your approach to work?

I was once told that people may forget what you say, but they never forget how you make them feel. That principle has guided my leadership, encouraging me to build relationships based on trust, integrity, and genuine care.

If you weren’t working in this industry, what other profession might you have pursued, and why?

Being an educator and despite holding a law degree, I would still choose education. Whether as an educator, researcher, or consultant, I have always been passionate about helping people grow through learning and intercultural experiences.

What trends or innovations are shaping your sector.

Students are increasingly looking for purposeful, personalised, and career-focused international experiences. Since Covid, wellbeing, flexibility, digital communication, and authentic cultural immersion have become essential expectations rather than added value.

What changes have you observed in consumer behaviour, and how does your business adapt to stay relevant and connected?

Today’s travellers are better informed and expect transparency, flexibility, and personalised support. We respond by maintaining close communication, designing innovative programmes, and building long-term relationships with students, families, schools, and international partners.

What exciting projects, goals, or plans does your organisation have in the next 12–18 months?

We are expanding our portfolio of educational programmes, strengthening partnerships especially in the UK but also across Europe and Asia, and developing new opportunities for students, educators, and educational institutions. Our goal is to continue making international education more accessible and impactful.

Tell us one unique fact or story about your business that people might not know.

EGI Education was founded with a simple belief: educational travel should create lasting personal transformation, not just memorable holidays. That philosophy continues to guide every programme we design today.

As a member of BETA, what have you found most valuable, and how has it supported your business growth?

BETA has provided an exceptional network of trusted professionals who share a commitment to quality and innovation. It has strengthened our international collaborations and opened valuable opportunities to learn, exchange ideas, and develop new partnerships.

In your view, what are the biggest challenges, threats, and opportunities facing youth, student, and educational travel in the coming years, and how is your business preparing to meet them?

Affordability, global uncertainty, and changing student expectations will remain key challenges. At the same time, the demand for international skills, cultural intelligence, and global citizenship continues to grow. We are preparing by developing innovative, high- quality programmes that deliver measurable educational value while remaining flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of learners and institutions.