kabarsula Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Ong-On Piyaritthipong: ‘Dream bigger than what feels possible’ bandar SLOT INDONESIA

Ten years ago, Ong-On Piyaritthipong took a leap of faith, leaving behind the familiar to start a new life and career in Australia.

Today, as a Tourism Authority of Thailand’s marketing communications consultant, she looks back on that decision as one of the moments that taught her to trust herself, take up space and dream bigger.

Here, she shares the women and experiences that shaped her, and why she believes there is never anything “too much” about wanting more from life.

What does “never too much” mean to you personally?

“Never too much” means never being afraid to dream bigger than what feels possible.

I’ve always believed in following my dreams, and when I truly want something, I’m willing to work for it, take risks and find a way to make it happen.

I’ve learned that the moments that feel most challenging are often the ones that help us grow the most. And when I finally achieve a goal or turn a dream into reality, the feeling I’m most proud of is knowing that I believed in myself and didn’t give up.

For me, “Never too much” is about giving yourself permission to dream, having the courage to go after those dreams, and celebrating yourself when you get there.

Because there’s nothing “too much” about wanting more from life and being proud of what you’ve achieved.

Who was the woman who showed you it was okay to take up space?

My mum. She has always been my biggest supporter and the person who taught me that it’s okay to be myself and follow my own path.

Since I was young, she never stopped me from pursuing the things I was passionate about. Instead, she encouraged me to explore, try new things and choose what made me happy.

Because of her, I grew up to be independent, confident and brave enough to pursue what I believe in. For example, she supported me when I had the opportunity to pursue singing for a while and even have my own songs.

She also encouraged me when I had the opportunity to teach university students – something I had dreamed of doing since I was very young.

Along the way, I also had opportunities to work on CSR projects, which opened my eyes to the needs of others and taught me the importance of caring and helping each other. Even when I decide to move to Australia and build my career here, she never held me back. Her support and these experiences have shaped who I am today.

What’s the trip, the role, or the moment that felt almost too big to reach for?

Ten years ago, moving to Australia and starting a new chapter in my life and career was probably the moment that felt almost too big to reach for.

I was leaving behind what was familiar and starting again in a new country, without knowing exactly where the journey would take me. It was exciting, but also quite scary.

I remember wondering, “Can I really do this?” But I decided to take the chance and see where it would lead.

Ten years later, I’m still here, and I’ve built a life and career that I’m truly proud of – and I’m also lucky to have a little girl who I can support, encourage and hopefully inspire to follow her own dreams.

Looking back, that decision taught me that sometimes the opportunities that feel the most out of reach are the ones that help us grow the most.

You don’t always need to know exactly where the journey will take you. Sometimes, you just need the courage to take that first step and believe that you’ll find your way.

What would you say to the woman who’s still convincing herself to ask for less?

I would tell her: don’t make yourself smaller or lower your goals just to make other people comfortable. Set goals that genuinely matter to you, even if they feel a little out of reach, and give yourself permission to go after them.

I’ve always believed in setting goals for myself and finding a way to make them happen. Some of the biggest changes in my life started with simply believing that I could do something and taking the first step.

It doesn’t mean everything will always go according to plan, but every challenge teaches you something and brings you closer to where you want to be. You don’t have to have everything figured out from the beginning.

Set a goal that means something to you, take it one step at a time and trust yourself along the way. There will be challenges and moments of doubt, but don’t let them stop you.

Sometimes, you just have to keep going and see where it takes you. You might surprise yourself with how far you can go. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to want more and go after what truly matters to you.

What do you tell yourself in the moment before you step up?

I tell myself, “If you don’t try, you’ll never know.” I take a breath, trust myself and remind myself that I’ve come this far for a reason. Then I just take that first step and go for it.

What’s the one travel item you can’t live without?

Definitely my phone! It’s my camera, map, translator, travel guide and a way to stay connected with my family and friends.

I honestly don’t know how we travelled without them! But I also make sure to put it away sometimes and just enjoy the moment.

Late entries for the 2026 Women in Travel Awards close on Friday 2 October.

Held at ivy Sydney, the December 2 ceremony will bring the industry together to celebrate the 2026 winners, unveil the Women in Travel Power List and crown the 2026 Woman of the Year. 

Early bird pricing ends on 3 November 2026.

Entry criteria, nomination details and the full list of 2025 winners are available on the Women in Travel Awards website. 

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