Digital Tourism Think Tank © 2025
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Dr Serkan Uzunogullari is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sunderland, where he leads programmes in International Tourism and Hospitality Management and Esports Event Management. Originally from Istanbul and now based in Newcastle, Serkan blends industry experience with a passion for teaching and innovation.
His PhD explores how video games influence tourism behaviour, unpacking how digital worlds can shape real-world travel intentions. He’s the creator of a pioneering hospitality mentorship programme with the North-East Hotels Association and collaborates closely with organisations like Kielder Waterside to connect students with live industry projects. Outside academia, Serkan’s interests include heritage tourism, basketball, and video games.
Since 2005 Elena works for Turismo de Islas Canarias, owned by the Regional Government, as Marketing Director
