Making a difference

My name is Janet Mactavish, I am a luxury travel designer and the owner of Travel Magellan.

Some time ago I was interviewed for an exclusive trade event and a quote from my interview was then used on billboards at the trade show: “If everyone does a little, together we can achieve a lot”.

Late last year I was thinking hard about what drives me; sure, I am passionate about what I do, planning and designing wonderful travel itineraries for my clients and, believe me, I am really passionate but I needed something more. How could I, and my business, in some way make a difference?

A flash of inspiration and there and then I announced out loud to a friend, “I am going to give 10 per cent of all the commission I earn next year to charity.” I went home and emailed all my clients and posted my decision on my various social media platforms. There, I had done it, I had stated the intention and told everyone about it and was excited to get going.

The only thing was that I had yet to decide who I wanted to support. I wanted a locally based charity, not one of the big players but one where I would have personal contact with the people that work there, to be able to assist at their fundraising events when I could, and to feel like I was really making a difference.

Two days later I went to a networking event in Haywards Heath and overheard a lady called Katia explaining to someone else all about Action Medical Research. It was a sign! I had to talk to her! So I marched over, introduced myself and made her repeat herself all over again. Fortunately she is very patient as well as passionate. As I listened to Katia, I knew that I wanted to support Action Medical Research, although I think it was perhaps hearing about the cooling therapy that really sealed the deal.

Funny how you wish for something and it seems like the whole universe has conspired to put the right person in your path to help make it happen.

So now I know what drives me. It is not only about creating wonderful memories for my clients but also supporting the work of Action Medical Research.

Perhaps in a small way I can help other people have memories that they might not have had the chance to enjoy without the pioneering work of Action...