The 2026 Direct Travel award recipients include:
Christine Sikes, Chief Operating Officer, Direct Travel — named to the FollowHer: Legends in the Industry category for setting high standards in global client engagement and championing women’s advancement across the business. She was previously honored in 2025.
Sarah Kuberry Martino, Chief Product Officer, Direct Travel — honored in the Women Innovating the Way We Travel category for directing the strategic roadmap of Direct Travel’s technology suite and crafting user-centric travel tools. She was previously honored in 2025.
Robin Handley, Senior Vice President, Sales Enablement, Direct Travel — selected in the FollowHer: Legends in the Industry category in recognition of her sustained contributions, mentorship, and enduring influence within the travel sector.
Toni Lo Sasso, Senior Director, User Experience, Direct Travel — recognized in the Women Innovating the Way We Travel category for bringing inventive problem-solving and fresh perspectives to modern corporate travel challenges.
“Having four of our talented leaders recognized on the GBTA WINiT Top 50 is a proud moment for our entire organization,” said Christal Bemont, CEO of Direct Travel. “Toni, Sarah, Robin, and Christine consistently push boundaries, inspire their peers, and deliver meaningful value for our customers. Their achievements highlight the depth of talent within our company and reinforce our commitment to building an inclusive, forward-thinking business.”
Entering its 12th year, the GBTA WINiT initiative shines a spotlight on leaders who actively expand career pathways, champion equity, and mentor rising talent across corporate travel. Direct Travel’s strong representation on the 2026 roster reflects the organization’s ongoing effort to cultivate executive diversity at every tier.
The honors cap off a transformative period of growth for Direct Travel. Following its integration of ATPI and ongoing enhancement of Avenir, the company’s unified global travel management platform, Direct Travel remains focused on delivering high-tech solutions paired with high-touch personal service.