For Haidy Abdelmaqsoud, being a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) in Egypt, is more than just guiding travellers to major landmarks.
“We also organize more stuff behind the scenes that no one knows about,” she said, including different travel styles and initiatives to support local communities.
Abdelmaqsoud says a highlight of leading our Egypt tours has been being able to meet travellers who are not just willing to see the world, but are dedicated and compassionate about giving back to the communities they’re visiting.
“I really appreciate that. That’s why I love working with G Adventures,” she said.
Becoming the first female CEO in Egypt
In 2021, Abdelmaqsoud became the first female G Adventures CEO in Egypt. While it wasn’t her initial plan to become a tour guide, she was inspired by another female tour guide, who eventually recommended her to enter the field.
At the time, she was worried that tour companies would overlook her for only being in her early 20s but was overjoyed when she was officially hired.
“When I had the interview, I found they just wanted to give that gender equality. And here in Egypt, we really suffer from that, we really need that,” she said.
Supporting women and local communities through travel
“Supporting the local communities, and supporting women to be independent and to achieve more progress in this field is not easy, but the good thing about this company is that we get our support from the actual company itself.”
While Abdelmaqsoud was finding her footing as a new hire, she said she was able to find support and lean on the knowledge of other CEOs, some of whom have been working with G Adventures since 2007.
Inspiring the next generation of women in travel
That mentorship is what Abdelmaqsoud hopes to carry forward to future generations of women and young people interested in tourism.
“My future advice to women, whoever wants to join G Adventures, just don't think about it, come and join, go apply, because this is your chance,” she said.
Looking back on who she was on the first day she started versus where she is today, Abdelmaqsoud says that she’s been able to learn more about herself and find ways to effect change.
“The one advice that I would really love to give to women, not only Egypt, but all over the world: don’t settle for less. The world needs you,” she said.
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