The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) hosted nearly 200 international and local young people, along with industry delegates from more than 15 destinations, at the PATA Youth Symposium 2024. This event took place on the morning of May 16, 2024, during the second day of the PATA Annual Summit 2024 in Macao, China, with hosting by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and co-hosting by SJM Resorts, S.A.
The symposium, facilitated by the Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST), focused on nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals. It gathered international thought leaders, tourism educators, and emerging tourism leaders to discuss the future of the industry. The program featured expert keynote addresses, a panel discussion, and roundtable sessions, providing opportunities for participants to interact with industry experts, exchange ideas, and stay informed about the latest industry trends.
In his opening remarks, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid noted that, “One of the pressing challenges today is the gap between the industry and academia. While the industry is facing difficulties in recruiting and retaining talents, youths are struggling to find viable career opportunities.”
He added, “At PATA, Human Capital Development is a key priority. We are committed to creating a seamless transition for students and young professionals into the travel and tourism workforce. As one of our many initiatives aimed at achieving this goal, the PATA Youth Symposium fostered a dialogue between current and future tourism leaders while paving the way for a more integrated and dynamic workforce in the industry.”
During his opening remarks, Prof. Goh Kok Beng, Dean – Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Macau University of Science and Technology, said, “Thanks to PATA and MGTO, We are very happy to have the opportunity to host the 2024 PATA Youth Symposium. The youth of today will be the tourism leaders of tomorrow. This symposium is an invaluable opportunity to amplify their voices and harness their vision for the future of travel. We are grateful to PATA for providing this important platform for young people.”
The event began with opening remarks from PATA and MUST, followed by a key presentation from Andrew Staples, Editorial Director for Impact Initiatives & Alliances and Head of Policy & Insights (Asia) at Economist Impact. His presentation highlighted the ongoing recovery and resilience of the travel and tourism sector, moving toward pre-pandemic activity levels.
The symposium aimed to update young people on the latest trends in the tourism industry, with a focus on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Viola Chan from Vpon AI Big Data Group discussed how AI and technology enhance productivity and personal growth, stressing the need to master these tools.
Alan Elliott Merschen, founder of The SIGMUND Project and Partner at MMGY Global, presented on tourism entrepreneurship. He offered guidance on starting a business, from developing effective business models to managing budgets, aimed at the entrepreneurial-minded youth.
Youth delegates engaged in roundtable discussions with peers aspiring to careers in tourism. They shared their views on the industry on the main stage, discussing what encourages them to remain in the sector and how the industry can improve to attract and keep tourism talent.
The final session of the PATA Youth Symposium introduced the attendees to a range of careers in travel and tourism beyond frontline roles. Industry leaders highlighted lesser-known jobs across various sectors, expanding the youths’ awareness of the career possibilities available to them.
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