Interview with Marie Claude Saliba: General Manager

Tell us your story. How did Educom Overseas get started?

I used to help as a volunteer in the school of my children and saw that there is a need to help all of these young students to travel in a different manner. So, I founded my own company: Educom Overseas, which was the first one of its kind in Lebanon.

What makes Educom Overseas different from your competitors?

Educom Overseas was the first agency in Lebanon and I have visited most of the countries I am promoting. My staff and I always participate in workshops and seminars as well in order to better understand the needs of the market.

What is your favourite success story from your organisation?

My favourite success story is when 20 years ago, I sent my first group to a summer camp abroad. I had 40 happy students who came back from their trip and spoke highly about Educom Overseas.

What can we expect to see from Educom Overseas in the future?

We expect to send more students and groups for internships and work and travel.

Which trends do you see in educational and active youth travel?

I see a big demand in internships, work and travel and volunteering programs.

How do you work to ensure the health and safety of young travellers involved with Educom Overseas?

A good insurance will ensure health and safety.

What was your motivation to join WYSE Travel Confederation?

To develop new trends that I found there.

Have you attended a WYSE Travel Confederation event? (World Youth and Student Travel Conference, STAY WYSE, WYSE Exchange Australia, WETM-IAC) If so, what was your experience with the event?

I attended WYSTC Edinburgh and I considered it a great success.

What is an industry challenge your organisation is facing at this time?

We must introduce new products as competition is very big.