Empowering Young People to Shape the Future of Tourism
Sanovnik Destang, the newly elected president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), called on Friday to empower young people to shape the future of tourism.
Investing in Youth
In a message marking World Tourism Day, under the theme of “Tourism and Peace,” Destang stressed the importance of investing in youth through education, training opportunities, and active participation in the tourism and hospitality sector to harness their potential for driving social change and promoting peace.
Young Talent Brings Fresh Perspectives
“Young talent brings fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy that are essential for the continuous evolution of tourism as a force for good,” Destang said.
Tourism as a Force for Peace
Destang highlighted that tourism is not just about leisure; it represents peace-building blocks, such as social justice, human rights, economic equity, and sustainable development. Tourism can also support democracy by fostering nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution.
Impacting Initiatives
Destang highlighted impactful initiatives launched by CHTA, such as the Young Leaders Forum (YLF), the St. Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association’s Citizens for Peace and Prosperity Initiative, and the Six Bridges to Peace and Prosperity.
Tourism for the People
“Tourism has to be for the people of the Caribbean,” Destang said, noting that initiatives like the YLF cultivate future industry leaders and nurture future ambassadors for tourism.
Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities
Destang emphasized that tourism generates a wide range of employment opportunities and fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. The tourism sector is a catalyst for economic growth, particularly through the development of creative business models that cater to emerging consumer demands.
Taste of the Caribbean Program
Destang underscored the pivotal role of CHTA’s Taste of the Caribbean program, pointing to the surge of new small- and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) launched by former industry employees, with a notable representation of women and young adults among these emerging entrepreneurs.
Responsible and Sustainable Tourism
Aligning with the objectives of World Tourism Day, Destang advocated for responsible and sustainable tourism that fosters global understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage and diversity.
Tourism Promotes Peace
He said tourism promotes peace and understanding across nations and cultures, supporting reconciliation processes.
Conclusion
The empowerment of young people in the tourism industry is crucial for shaping the future of tourism and promoting peace. By investing in education, training, and active participation, we can harness the potential of young talent and drive social change.
FAQs
Q: What is the importance of investing in youth in the tourism industry?
A: Investing in youth is essential for harnessing their potential for driving social change and promoting peace.
Q: What are some impactful initiatives launched by CHTA?
A: The Young Leaders Forum (YLF), the St. Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association’s Citizens for Peace and Prosperity Initiative, and the Six Bridges to Peace and Prosperity are some of the impactful initiatives launched by CHTA.
Q: What is the role of CHTA’s Taste of the Caribbean program?
A: The program fosters the development of creative business models that cater to emerging consumer demands, resulting in a surge of new small- and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) launched by former industry employees.