Altan's STORY
​Altan Demirkaya is an Award-Winning Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism Professional, Entrepreneur, Speaker, Instructor, and the Host of the AD SHOW PODCAST.
Passionate Award-Winning Travel & Tourism Professional
Hospitality has been more than just a career for me—it’s my passion and lifestyle. I have had the privilege of working with some of the largest hotel brands, airlines, and schools around the world, honing my skills in Global Sales, Account Management, Business Development, Customer Experience, and Hospitality teaching. My journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a relentless drive to elevate the guest experience.
In 2022, I was elected as the President of Skal International Vancouver, becoming the youngest Skal President in the world. This role has allowed me to leverage my extensive experience and innovative approach to lead and inspire others in the industry.
1990
Foundation of Values: Growing Up in Istanbul
Born in
Istanbul, Turkey.
Raised by a loving and hardworking family, instilling values of discipline and gratitude.
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1996
Early Influences: Education in Istanbul
Growing Up in Istanbul.
Attended Sair Behcet Kemal Caglar Elementary School.
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1997
​Athlete in Training: The Start of a Sports Career
Started playing basketball.
Raised by a loving and hardworking family, instilling values of discipline and gratitude.
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From a Young Age: Getting Hands-On in Hospitality
Working in Hospitality
Began assisting in his family’s canteen at age 12, learning customer service and management fundamentals.
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2002
2006
Academic Journey: Pursuing Excellence in Studies
Academic Life.
Attended Etiler High School, studying Turkish Language & History and Mathematics.
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2008
Academic Growth: Specializing in Hospitality
University Studies.
​Pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hotel Management at Okan University.
Voluntarily worked in various departments of five-star hotels and airlines during studies.
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2012
​Building Connections: Engaging with Global Leaders
Networking and Industry Engagement.
Actively participated in Skal International events, connecting with industry executives and focusing on professional development.
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2013
​Career Beginnings: From Bellboy to Manager
Graduated from Okan University with an honorary degree in Tourism and Hotel Management.
Started his first official full-time hotel career as a Bellboy at the Divan Hotel Group in Istanbul.
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2014
International Transition: From Istanbul to Vancouver
Moved to Vancouver, Canada.
Enrolled in ESL courses for six months to improve English skills and worked as a volunteer in the hospitality sector.
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2015
Cultivating Future Leaders: Young Skal Vancouver
Enrolled in Canadian College’s Hospitality Management Program.
Established Young Skal Vancouver, connecting aspiring professionals with industry executives.
Became a speaker at universities and colleges, sharing his journey and inspiring students.
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2016
Climbing the Career Ladder: From Manager to Award-Winner
Promotion to Sales & Catering Manager at the hotel.
Recognized with the Vancouver Tourism Award for outstanding service.
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2017
Global Recognition: Future Leader in Hospitality
Awarded the Future Leader Award at the Skal International World Congress in India.
Became a recognized speaker at major hospitality conferences and events.
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2018
​Driving Growth: From Sales Manager to Revenue Generator
Hired at BWH Hotel Corporate Office as Account Development and Global Sales Manager for Western Canada.
Managed +250 hotels, contributing over $5 million in revenue to the brand.
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2020
Turning Crisis into Innovation: Launched Tourism Talks by AD
Laid off due to COVID-19 Pandemic.
Launched Tourism Talks by AD, a live-stream platform discussing the future of tourism during the pandemic.
Livestreams became a key resource for personal and professional development.
From Student to Instructor: Teaching the Next Generation
2021
Started part-time teaching at Canadian College as a Hospitality Instructor.
Returned to the same college where he was a student.
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2022
Leading and Inspiring: Skal Vancouver President and Air Canada Leader
Elected President of Skal Vancouver—the youngest ever in Skal Canada history and one of the youngest in Skal International’s history.
Recognized with the ‘’Rising Leader Award’’ and ‘’Certificate of Appreciation’’ by Skal International.
Hired as Customer Experience Manager for Air Canada, responsible for over +300 employees.
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2024
Creating Impact: Launched AD SHOW PODCAST
Elected to the national Board of SKAL Canada.
Launched AD SHOW PODCAST, engaging with CEOs and professionals to share their success stories and challenges.