TORONTO — In the words of travel advisor Ceera Machotka, “I’ve always believed that if I can inspire even one person to take a trip, it’s worth it.”
Machotka will be inspiring many more travellers than she expected, now that her short film, ‘Fueled by Wonder: 55 Seconds Around the World,’ has won top prize as the Travel Advisor Category Winner in Goway’s Micro-Film Fest.
Goway wrapped up its inaugural Micro Film Festival on Sept. 18 with a rooftop gathering at The London Hotel West Hollywood, a follow-up party to its Toronto event on Sept. 11.
First announced last year, and part of Goway’s year-long celebrations for its 55th anniversary, the Goway Micro Film Festival invited three categories of creators – Globetrotters, Travel Advisors and Professional Creators – to submit their 55-second travel videos for a chance to win some $55,000 in travel prizes. The competition attracted hundreds of entries.
The winners of Goway’s inaugural Micro Film Festival were announced at a rooftop party at The London Hotel West Hollywood (photo credit Jill Augusto)
Reflecting on her big win, Machotka told Travelweek she has a passion for travel photography and videography. “It’s my way of documenting and appreciating each journey for years to come. While I may not have a huge following on social media, I’ve always believed that if I can inspire even one person to take a trip, it’s worth it. This contest felt like the perfect opportunity to combine my love for travel and storytelling, and to share what [they] really mean to me.”
She added that Goway “has always been one of my top suppliers, and I’m truly appreciative for the travel opportunities they’ve offered me. Their partnership and support have been invaluable in my role, and I know the trips they curate are always memorable.”
The message she wanted to impart with her 55-second film was one of inspiration, “to inspire others to travel, and discover the incredible experiences that await them on the other side of the world. Travel is so much more than seeing new places—it’s about learning from different cultures, languages, people, and ways of life. To me, there is truly nothing more meaningful.”
In making her film Machotka faced the task of narrowing down her travel photos and videos to a very concise 55 seconds. “It was a fun challenge,” she told Travelweek. “I wanted to tell a story about what inspires me to keep exploring. Many of the clips I chose were trips I’ve done with Goway, which made the film even more personal and meaningful. My hope is that viewers see not just the destinations, but also the joy, curiosity and connection that travel brings.”
She can’t narrow down her favourite Goway products to sell – thanks to the company’s incredibly wide range. “They truly offer the world. I would say what makes their partnership so meaningful, is the destination experts that I get to work with. Over the years of working with this company, I have developed wonderful relationships. The agents are so knowledgeable and really get to know your preferences.”
With her win in the Travel Advisor category, Machotka was joined by Everyday Globetrotter Category Winner, Samantha Merson, who won for ‘The Land of Endless Adventure’ featuring New Zealand, and Professional Creator Category Winner. Isabelle Victoria, who won for ‘Part of Me’ featuring Japan.
“As we wrap up this inaugural year, we’re thrilled by the creativity and passion that shone through each submission,” said Goway’s VP Marketing, Mitchell Fawcett.
The event will return in 2026, he added. “From travel advisors and everyday travellers to professional creators, the films reflected the true wonder of travel and the power of storytelling in just 55 seconds.”
Travel Advisor Category Winner
Title: Fueled by Wonder: 55 Seconds Around the World
Created by: Ceera Machotka
Everyday Globetrotter Category Winner
Title: The Land of Endless Adventure
Destination Featured: New Zealand
Created by: Samantha Merson
Professional Creator Category Winner
Title: Part of Me
Created by: Isabelle Victoria, Los Angeles
Destination Featured: Japan
