The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has honoured two prominent figures in the Asia Pacific tourism sector at the PATA Annual Summit 2025, held in Istanbul, Türkiye.
Dr Chris Bottrill, Associate Vice President, International, at Capilano University, received the PATA Life Membership Award. The PATA Award of Merit was presented to Mr SanJeet, Director of DDP Publications Private Limited. Both awards were given to recognise their outstanding service and lasting contributions to the Association.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid praised the recipients, saying, “These awards reflect the deep dedication, passion, and leadership shown by Dr Bottrill and Mr SanJeet. Their work has had a major and lasting impact on PATA and the wider travel and tourism industry. We are proud to celebrate these two visionaries who are shaping the future of our sector.”
The PATA Life Membership Award, the Association’s highest individual honour, was awarded to Dr Bottrill for his leadership and continued commitment to the organisation. He has been involved with PATA since 2011 and has taken on several major roles. These include Chair of the Human Capital Development Committee, Vice Chair of the Sustainability and Social Responsibility Committee, and Chair of the Executive Board.
Dr Bottrill has led key projects focusing on youth involvement, sustainability, and Indigenous tourism. He was also involved in a recent study on human rights in tourism. He now leads the Vietnam Community Tourism project, supported by PATA, which helps preserve ethnic hill tribe culture through responsible tourism.
At Capilano University, Dr Bottrill oversees a broad international portfolio. His role includes managing international projects and partnerships, as well as programs in tourism and hospitality, film, animation, and design.
Mr SanJeet was given the PATA Award of Merit in recognition of his strong support for PATA and its Chapter network. He has been a committed member of the Association for more than 18 years and has served two terms on the Executive Board.
He has contributed to many PATA committees and has held key leadership roles, especially with the PATA India Chapter. He played a leading role in bringing the PATA Travel Mart to New Delhi in 2023. The event is one of the region’s most important travel trade exhibitions.
Mr SanJeet has been a part of PATA since 1999 and has led DDP Publications for over 25 years. The company produces ten travel magazines, including two published in Dubai. He also represents major international exhibitions and has launched a series of trade shows in Bangkok. These events, in partnership with PLG Group, focus on luxury travel, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), weddings, and related industries.
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