A Journey from Employee to Entrepreneur

Nicole Andrew establishes "Island Travel" Travel Made Easy

In the vibrant town of Portsmouth, Dominica, Nicole Andrew embarked on a journey that would ultimately lead her to the helm of her own travel agency, Island Travel Dominica. Driven by a deep-seated love for exploration and a determination forged through adversity, Nicole's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering faith. From navigating the complexities of the travel industry to overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship, her journey exemplifies the power of combining expertise with a strong belief in oneself.

Nicole's entry into the travel industry was not accidental. After completing her education at the Business Training Centre, she secured an attachment at the Dominica Port Authority, which soon led to a position at CARNS Travel. This early experience, coupled with specialized training in Trinidad, laid the foundation for her career. "I discovered my passion for travel while working at CARNS Travel," Nicole recalls. "It was there that I realized how much joy I derived from helping others plan their journeys and explore new destinations."

Over the next five years, Nicole immersed herself in the travel industry, learning the intricacies of booking flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements. Her time at CARNS Travel was a crucial period of growth, equipping her with the skills and knowledge needed to excel. Later, at Whitchurch Travel, and through her work with Ross University faculty via TSI, Nicole further honed her expertise, gaining a deeper understanding of client needs and industry operations. These experiences shaped her approach to travel, focusing on personalized service and meticulous planning.

The turning point in Nicole's career came in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. With commercial flights on hold and her previous employment uncertain, Nicole faced a daunting decision. "I was laid off and found myself at a crossroads," she says. "But I realized that if I could successfully assist clients for others, I could certainly do the same for myself." Despite financial constraints, Nicole didn't let the obstacles deter her. Instead, she used the time to plan meticulously, eventually launching Island Travel Dominica. "Starting my own agency was both exciting and terrifying," she admits. "But I knew it was the right step."

Nicole's journey to establishing Island Travel was not without its challenges. From facing rejection in her first attempt to secure IATA certification to the difficulties of obtaining startup capital, every hurdle required determination and persistence. "The hardest moment was dealing with that initial rejection," Nicole reflects. "But I didn't give up. I applied again, learned from my mistakes, and succeeded." With a 1% interest loan from AID Bank and personal savings, she turned her vision into a thriving business.

Travel has always been more than just a profession for Nicole—it's a window to the world. Her favorite destinations, such as Santo Domingo, Martinique, and Texas, have not only broadened her horizons but also deepened her passion for helping others discover new cultures. "Travel opens the mind," she says. "It's an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, and I love being part of that experience for my clients."

Running a business is demanding, but Nicole has found ways to balance her professional and personal life. As an introvert, she finds solace in her work, yet she understands the importance of setting limits. "I'm fortunate to have a supportive family," she notes. "They understand my dedication to Island Travel and give me the space I need to focus on growing the business."

Nicole's success is rooted in her guiding principles of loyalty, fairness, and perseverance. These values shape every aspect of her life, from how she manages her business to how she interacts with clients. A particularly memorable experience occurred in 2016 when she traveled to Martinique for medical reasons. Despite being alone in a foreign country, a kind stranger named Yann helped her navigate the city, reaffirming her belief in the kindness of humanity. "That experience taught me that even strangers can feel like family," she says. "It's a lesson I carry with me in my work and life."

Nicole's vision for Island Travel Dominica extends beyond its current success. She aims to expand the agency from a sole proprietorship to a company, creating more employment opportunities and continuing to serve clients locally and internationally. "My goal is to make Island Travel a trusted name not just in Dominica but across the region," she explains. Promoting sustainable tourism is also a priority, as Nicole believes in preserving Dominica's natural beauty for future generations.

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Nicole offers this advice: "Follow your heart, be prepared for challenges, and rely on your faith. There will be obstacles, but with perseverance and prayer, you can overcome them." She draws inspiration from Philippians 4:6-7, a passage that has guided her through the ups and downs of her entrepreneurial journey.

Nicole Andrew's journey from a determined employee to a successful entrepreneur is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through resilience, passion, and faith. Island Travel Dominica stands as a testament to her hard work and dedication, serving as a beacon for those who aspire to turn their dreams into reality. As Nicole continues to guide others on their journeys, both near and far, she remains rooted in the values that have carried her this far—loyalty, fairness, and an unwavering belief in the power of persistence.