In commemoration of International Youth Day, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has issued a compelling call to sector leaders to actively prioritize the inclusion of young individuals. This initiative aims not only to enrich talent and innovation in the industry but also to ensure a sustainable and dynamic future for the Travel and Tourism field.

The Travel and Tourism sector, renowned as one of the largest worldwide, has its foundation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), constituting an impressive 80%. A distinctive feature of the sector is its diversity, employing individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, or ethnic origin. Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, emphasizes that over 50% of the sector's employment is held by women, and 30% by young people.

Active involvement of the youth in this sector stands as a fundamental pillar for its continuous evolution and success. In the words of Julia Simpson, "The Travel and Tourism sector acts as a driver for socio-economic development and global job creation. However, actions that encourage greater youth participation, contributing with their talent and knowledge in an increasingly dynamic and modern world, need to be reinforced." With growth surpassing the global economy, tourism already accounts for 9.2% of the world's GDP and one in every 11 jobs globally.

Simpson's voice highlights the significance of young individuals as an essential component in transforming the sector into a more interconnected, diverse, and sustainable entity. To achieve this goal, WTTC will continue directing efforts towards empowering women, young people, and other social groups within the global tourism industry. In this celebration of International Youth Day, a clear reminder is established: investing in the potential of the youth is an investment in the very future of Travel and Tourism.