20 Questions With Leyla Osorio, CEO and Co-Founder, Global Cruises

Leyla Osorio is the CEO and co-founder of Global Cruises. She’s also a Women Leading Travel & Hospitality member! In this member spotlight, we asked Leyla a series of questions about both her professional role and personal life, including the woman who inspires her, her leadership style, her advice for the next generation of female leaders, and much more.

1. What’s the best book you’ve read recently?
   “I am Rome” by Santiago Posteguillo. This summer, I had the chance to spend a significant amount of time in Rome, which sparked a deep interest in learning about the city’s landmarks and the stories behind them. It’s a fascinating book because while I was familiar with Julius Caesar’s achievements in his later years, this book dives into his adolescence and early life and it gives you insight on how his character and personality was forged through his education and life circumstances. I had never read much about his younger years before, so this perspective was very interesting.
2. What do you love most about the travel and hospitality industry?
   The incredible opportunity it provides to bring each destination’s history and culture to life. Every place has its own unique stories, traditions and character, and being able to share those with travelers is something truly special. There’s something very rewarding about knowing that through the experiences we create, travelers form lasting connections with destinations.
3. What is something the community may be surprised to learn about you?
   That cruising isn’t just my career; it’s also my favorite way to travel! Every time I step on board, it feels like my first cruise because the excitement never fades. I dive into every activity — whether it’s rock climbing, karaoke, or anything else on the itinerary each ship has — and genuinely believe cruising is the best way to discover the world. I’m not biased; it’s a passion that has become my family’s preferred way to travel as well. There’s something magical about waking up in a new place each day — one morning in Rome, the next in Barcelona. It’s an incredible way to see the world.
4. What ‘s the toughest part of being in charge?
   Having to make difficult decisions. There’s always a balance between following your heart, considering the well-being of the individuals that form the team, and doing what’s best for the company. Sometimes, these decisions can hurt, especially when they impact personal lives. There are times when I’ve let days go by without making that tough decision I knew I should have made on the first day and it’s painful. I have to remind myself that it’s better to make those decisions sooner than later. Balancing empathy with responsibility is a delicate task, and while it can be tough, it’s also one of the most important aspects of leadership.
5. What personal skill or attribute do you believe is most responsible for your success?
   Resilience and discipline have been the cornerstones of my success. Resilience has carried me through challenging moments, helping me stay focused and driven even when obstacles arise. When you have a dream, the key is to never give up, no matter how difficult the journey might be. Discipline plays an equally important role — showing up for yourself consistently and pursuing your goals with intention. It’s that commitment, both to my own vision and to the team’s objectives, that’s responsible for a success that’s not only mine, but a collective one. On a personal level, I’ll only know if I’ve been truly successful at the end of my life. For now, it’s about falling in love with the journey, not just the destination.
6. What woman inspires you right now and why?
   Always my mom. As both the head of our family and a successful businesswoman, she’s been an incredible role model, always finding a way to support her children and achieve her goals. She’s been my lifelong icon of a successful woman, and my admiration for her only deepens with time. Right now, in this part of the world, it’s impossible not to follow Maria Corina Machado. I believe she’s not only the bravest woman but one of the bravest people overall. My admiration for her runs deep. And on a lighter note, I’m always listening to Karol G, and I can’t help but admire her, too! As a Colombian, it’s inspiring to see how her talent and hard work have taken her so far.
7. What is one industry trend you’re closely tracking and why?
   How cruise lines are developing destinations on their own private lands or islands. I understand the appeal — they provide a controlled enhanced guest experience and an increased revenue opportunity, among many other elements. This trend represents both a challenge and an opportunity, and it will be interesting to see how it’s going to advance. In the long term, the rise of private islands by cruise lines may compel traditional destinations to evolve, focusing more on unique, authentic and sustainable experiences to attract and retain cruise visitors.
8. What is one thing you look for when interviewing a job candidate?
   Leadership and a strong ability to overcome obstacles. Leadership, to me, means more than simply managing others — it’s about showing initiative, taking responsibility, and inspiring those around you. I want to see candidates who can set a positive example and approach challenges with confidence and creativity. Equally important is their ability to overcome obstacles. I look for someone who has demonstrated resilience, someone who can adapt and keep pushing forward, even when things don’t go as planned. These qualities are essential for success and growth in any role.
9. What’s something that you learned about yourself in the past year?
   This year, I’ve been working on my patience. I’ve learned that no matter how hard I try to push forward, it doesn’t mean I’ll reach my goals any faster — but I will get there. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. There have been times I wanted to reach the finish line sooner, but I’ve come to understand that real progress often takes time. The key is not to lose heart or give up but to stay patient and trust the journey. Easier said than done, especially with a go-getter spirit that always has one foot on the accelerator! But I’ll keep working on my patience.
10. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
    “This too shall pass.” There are times in life that feel especially difficult, but it’s important to recognize which challenges are temporary and learn to navigate and endure them. Whenever I face a tough moment, I remind myself that it’s only a phase. That gives me the strength to keep moving forward.
11. What values are most important to you as a leader?
    Optimism, discipline, and resilience are the values I hold most dear as a leader. Optimism allows me to approach challenges with a positive mindset, helping to inspire and motivate my team even during difficult times. Discipline is essential to staying committed to our goals and following through on our plans. And resilience is vital, especially in an ever-evolving industry. These values help me guide my team with purpose and determination, no matter what we face. Recently, I came across a phrase that encapsulates a message I want to share as a leader and entrepreneur: Success isn’t a straight line; it’s more like a roller coaster, with its ups, downs, and occasional steady stretches.
12. What’s the most important thing people should know about you?
    The most important thing to know about me — both as an industry colleague and on a personal level — is that no matter the challenge, I will always put in the work to the best of my abilities. I’m committed to giving my all and finding solutions, even when things get tough.
13. Do you prefer to work in the office, at home, or hybrid? Why?
    If I had to choose, I’d say the office. I feel more productive there. Being around my team lets me feel the energy and connect directly. It’s just not the same over a video screen, where some of the challenges and emotions get lost. However, with our teams spread across the globe, the world truly is our office. Sometimes we work from home, other times from airports, ports, or even on the ships. It’s all about adapting and staying connected wherever we are.
14. Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to? Why?
    It’s a tough pick, as it often depends on your stage in life. However, now that I’m a mom of three, my favorite place I’ve traveled to with my kids is Kenya and Tanzania, specifically the frontier between the Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve. Exploring its stunning savannas was an experience unlike any other — the breathtaking landscapes and the wildlife felt almost surreal. The warmth and hospitality of the local people added to the experience, as they shared their rich culture and stories. There’s a sense of adventure and connection to nature that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression and fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world and its people.
15. What is the top item on your bucket list?
    Hmm, that’s a tough one. There are two places I really want to explore but haven’t yet. First, Thailand has been on my bucket list for many years, and every time I’m about to travel something happens to derail those plans. I’d love to experience its culture, landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. And then, Antarctica. Taking an expedition cruise to the Antarctic is a dream of mine. There’s something incredibly exciting about seeing that remote, icy wilderness from the deck of a ship.
16. What do you do to recharge?
    Meditating and hopping on my Peloton to sweat my anxiety away. Every morning, Monday to Friday, I make it part of my routine. It completely transforms my mood and sets the tone for the day. After a good session on the bike, I feel recharged and ready to take on whatever the day brings.
17. What is your biggest accomplishment?
    My family: Matilde, Alejandro, Abril, and Germán. They bring so much joy and purpose to my life. Nurturing and supporting them is my greatest achievement, and I’m incredibly proud of the relationships we’ve built together.
18. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
    Dream big but be prepared to execute those dreams step by step. It’s essential not to let your aspirations remain just dreams; you need to take actionable steps to make them a reality. I know many people who dream big — they are visionaries — but someone has to put in the hard work. That’s the key difference between a dreamer and an executor. Break down your goals into manageable tasks, stay focused, and don’t shy away from hard work. Your vision is important, and with dedication and perseverance you can achieve incredible things!
19. What gets you up in the morning?
    The joy of being alive. I feel happy and grateful for each new day, especially when the sun comes out. It’s a reminder that there’s life, and with that there’s hope and anything can be achieved.
20. What do you like most about being a member of Women Leading Travel & Hospitality?
    The opportunity to learn from colleagues and peers in the same industry. It’s invaluable to share challenges and insights with others who understand the environment we navigate. Having a network of supportive women to talk to and seek advice from makes a significant difference, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that enriches our professional journeys.