The Department of Tourism successfully hosted the 13th annual National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE) at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec from September 30 to October 2, 2022.
Themed ‘Rethinking Tourism – Career Opportunities Await,’ the three-day expo introduced more than 8 000 youth to potential careers in tourism, inspiring them to explore a career in the sector.
“The youth are at the cusp of making life-changing decisions as they map out their career paths. We are pleased to have had an opportunity to offer them a glimpse into the world of tourism and hospitality as a potential career,” said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela.
The sector’s potential to create business and employment opportunities has positioned it as a significant economic driver. Its ability to generate demand and production across various sectors of the economy affirms the sector’s critical contribution in the implementation of South Africa’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
Capacitate the youth
“Tourism is a lifeline that provides opportunities that transform lives and uplift communities. Our approach to empowerment is to provide programmes that capacitate the youth to meet the skills demand in the sector. An adequately skilled workforce boosts tourism, the economy and our global competitiveness.
“We brought in more than 250 multi-sector industry players to the 2022 NTCE to engage with the youth, and urge them to rethink a career or business opportunity in tourism.
“Looking forward, our efforts to grow tourism will be inclusive and transformative to ensure that all, in particular the youth, enjoy the benefits brought on by the success of the sector,” said Mahlalela.
The NTCE is a long-standing collaborative programme between the Department of Tourism, the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality & Sport Education Training Authority (CATHSSETA), and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development – represented by the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA).
For NTCE highlights, visit: www.tourismcareersexpo.co.za
