Skål International Bangkok road safety initiative highlights how tourism professionals translate global values into local action, promoting child safety, community engagement, and social responsibility at one of Bangkok’s busiest intersections.
In a heartwarming display of community care and practical action, Skål International Bangkok has joined forces with local partners to deliver a powerful road safety message at one of the busiest intersections in the country. The initiative, which focused on the distribution of protective motorcycle helmets to families and children, underlines Skål’s long-standing commitment to responsible tourism, community engagement, and social responsibility.
Skål International is a global association of travel and tourism professionals, spanning more than 12,000 members across 85 countries and 305 clubs worldwide. With representation in almost every major city on every continent, Skål promotes friendship, networking, and sustainable development within the global tourism industry. The Bangkok club continues to play a leading role in aligning these global values with meaningful local action.
Led by James Thurlby, President of Skål International Bangkok, the project was delivered in collaboration with Move Ahead Media and Helmet Heroes, a local charity dedicated to improving road safety through the provision of protective headwear for motorcycle riders. With the support of local traffic police, the group positioned themselves at the highly congested Asok Intersection, located in the very heart of Bangkok.
Over the course of the initiative, more than 120 motorcycle helmets were distributed, with priority given to children who were being transported by parents or guardians without any form of head protection. In Thailand, where motorcycles remain one of the most common modes of transport for families, the absence of helmets, particularly for children, continues to be a major contributor to road-related injuries and fatalities.
The location was deliberately chosen for its visibility and impact. Asok Intersection is one of Bangkok’s busiest traffic nodes, connecting major roads, public transport links, and commercial districts. Throughout the morning, the helmet distribution attracted significant attention from passers-by, commuters, and motorists. Many stopped to observe, take photographs, and express appreciation for what was clearly recognised as a positive and community-spirited initiative.
While some organisers cannot be seen clearly in the photographs taken on the day, the collective effort and sense of shared purpose were unmistakable. Volunteers worked alongside police officers to ensure that helmets were fitted correctly, children were safely equipped, and parents were reminded of the importance of road safety. The atmosphere was both practical and uplifting, combining education with immediate, tangible support.
Speaking after the event, representatives from Skål International Bangkok highlighted that the initiative reflects the organisation’s belief that tourism professionals have a responsibility not only to their industry, but also to the communities in which they live and work. By addressing a real and pressing local issue, the project demonstrated how international organisations can contribute positively at grassroots level.
Families receive helmets at Asok Intersection, drawing attention from commuters and motorists during the morning campaign.
Helmet Heroes, the charity partner in the initiative, continues to work across Bangkok and other parts of Thailand to raise awareness of motorcycle safety and to distribute helmets to those most in need. Their collaboration with Skål Bangkok and Move Ahead Media helped extend the reach and impact of the campaign, reinforcing the message that simple preventative measures can save lives.
Skål International Bangkok encourages tourism professionals, industry partners, and community members to become involved in future initiatives. Those interested in joining Skål International are invited to contact the Bangkok club directly via [email protected]. Further information about Helmet Heroes and their ongoing work can be found via their official website.
This initiative stands as a reminder that meaningful change often begins with small, practical actions, delivered with care, cooperation, and community spirit
Andrew J Wood was born in Yorkshire England, he is a former hotelier, Skalleague and travel writer. Andrew has 48 years of hospitality and travel experience. Educated at Batley Grammar School and a hotel graduate of Napier University, Edinburgh. Andrew started his career in London, working with various hotels. His first posting overseas was with Hilton International, in Paris, and he later arrived in Asia in 1991 on Bangkok with his appointment as Director of Marketing at the Shangri-La Hotel and has remained in Thailand ever since. Andrew has also worked with the Royal Garden Resort Group now Anantara (Vice President) and the Landmark Group of Hotels (Vice President of Sales and Marketing). Latterly he has been the General Manager at the Royal Cliff Group of Hotels in Pattaya and the Chaophya Park Hotel Bangkok & Resorts.
A past board member and Director of Skål International (SI), a former National President with SI Thailand and a two time past President of the Bangkok Club. Andrew is the former President of Skål Asia. In 2019, Andrew was awarded SKÅL’s highest award the distinction of Membre D’Honneur.
He is a regular guest lecturer at various Universities in Asia.
