The TAFI Stakeholders Showcase 2025, hosted by the Western India Chapter of the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), proved to be a monumental success, drawing over 160 travel professionals from Mumbai and Pune. The event featured the participation of 13 premier brands, representing the diverse travel and tourism ecosystem.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from TAFI Western India Chapter Chairman, Jay Kantawala, who set the stage for an evening of insightful discussions and valuable networking. Arun Iyer, the Chapter’s Secretary, then outlined the agenda and invited key partners to take the stage, signaling the start of a highly engaging program.
A standout moment of the event came with the presentation by Sharad Gowani, Head – West & South India at VFS Global, alongside Anahita Avari, Head of Sales South Asia. Together, they unveiled new, exclusive value-added offerings designed specifically for TAFI members, reinforcing VFS Global’s commitment to supporting the Indian travel community.
Adding further value to the evening was an inspiring masterclass by industry veteran Sudhir Patil, Founder of Veena World. Patil shared his extensive knowledge, offering proven strategies for scaling businesses and navigating the complex landscape of the travel industry. His insights into sustainable growth captivated the audience, providing valuable takeaways for all present.
TAFI President Ajay Prakash addressed the gathering, commending the energy and enthusiasm in the room. He echoed the call from Committee Member Satbir Narula, urging the industry to stay agile and adapt to ever-evolving trends. In his speech, Prakash also extended a heartfelt invitation to young professionals to join TAFI, highlighting the organization’s role in fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation within the travel sector.
The event was a melting pot of networking opportunities, with participation from top-tier hotels, destination management companies (DMCs), consolidators, travel tech innovators, and insurance companies. These industry leaders engaged in meaningful conversations, forging new partnerships and discussing the future trajectory of the travel industry.
The evening was brought to a close with an exciting entertainment program, complete with cocktails and dinner, creating a relaxed environment for guests to continue their networking. Attendees also had the chance to win exclusive raffle prizes, including free airline tickets, luxury hotel stays, and curated hampers, further adding to the excitement of the event.
Feedback from members was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their eagerness for the next event. TAFI Western India continues to be at the forefront of empowering its members and fostering collaboration within the travel and tourism industry, solidifying its position as a key player in the sector’s growth.
