PATA Youth Symposium 2025: Empowering the Next Generation to Navigate the Workforce and Build Career Readiness
BANGKOK, September 2, 2025 – The PATA Youth Symposium 2025, hosted by the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University (SWUIC) and in collaboration with Bangkok University International (BUI), brought together more than 100 youths and industry professionals to Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, August 25.
As an embodiment of the Association’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, the symposium ensured that young professionals are equipped with proper knowledge and tools that will help them navigate future careers.
“The symposium has been designed to equip young tourism professionals with the insights they need to prepare for the workforce,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Beyond simply attending, youths are joining us as keynote speakers, panellists, and even moderators, sharing the stage with industry leaders and mentors. This demonstrates that building a sustainable future for our industry requires both sides to work together—exchanging ideas, wisdom, and practical approaches that shape how we view the workforce of tomorrow.”
He added, “On behalf of the Association, I extend my gratitude to our gracious host, Srinakharinwirot University, as well as to the speakers and all who contributed to making this symposium possible.”
Thanakorn Thongprayoon, Dean of the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University, said, “At SWUIC, our mission is to nurture globally minded graduates who are not only career-ready, but also deeply committed to sustainability and inclusivity. It’s a privilege to host this inspiring event that aligns so closely with our core values. This symposium exemplifies our shared goal: to ignite new ideas, foster meaningful dialogue, and empower the next generation of tourism leaders.”
PATA Chair Peter Semone, who officiated the symposium alongside Thongprayoon, said, “PATA is committed to supporting this generation’s journey into the workforce by providing the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to excel and stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry. We are determined to open the hearts and minds of the younger generation, and showcase the tourism industry as one of the most dynamic and fast-moving service sectors that hold many rewarding opportunities for those who choose to build their careers in it.”
He added, “To the younger generation, my advice is to pursue what you love. With passion and dedication, you will certainly find your purpose and achieve meaningful success.”
Happenings at the PATA Youth Symposium 2025 @ PTM 2025
The Symposium opened with an inspiring virtual address by Sophia Montgomery, Physics Student at Harvard University and Paris 2024 Olympian in Women's Dinghy Sailing. Sharing her personal journey, Sophia highlighted the importance of setting clear goals, committing fully, and developing action plans that sharpen one’s skills in order to achieve success.
The second session featured Jonathan Low, CEO of Global Success Learning Academy, who emphasised the importance of cultivating “G.R.I.T.” – Growth mindset, Resilience, Influence, and Trust – especially in times of uncertainty and rapid change. Challenges, he reminded the participants, should be viewed as opportunities for growth.
Shifting focus to career readiness, a panel discussion spotlighted young alumni who had successfully transitioned from university into the tourism industry. Moderated by Sirimada Siriwattanakarn, a fourth year student in BA Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management from SWUIC, the session featured Napa Arunruakthavorn, Executive - Membership Relations, PATA, and Pitchakorn Pasookkamol, Talent Development Manager, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok. Both panellists shared practical advice, stressing the importance of networking, engaging with perspectives beyond one’s own generation, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
The afternoon programme turned to insights from industry professionals through two thought-provoking panels. The first, on hidden opportunities in the workforce, featured Mike Stewart, Regional General Manager South East Asia, Intrepid Travel; Elliot Laoroekutai, Digital Marketing Executive, iSanook Hotels & Resorts; and Kritsanee Srisatin, Founder & Managing Director, Stream Events Asia Ltd. and Vice President, Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA). The panellists advised youth to seek organisations that align with their values, understand their unique contributions, and embrace mentoring as a way to stay relevant in a fast-evolving industry. Stewart also shared Intrepid’s practice of reverse mentoring, where junior staff provide fresh perspectives to senior leadership, ensuring that traditional approaches are constantly challenged.
The second panel, moderated by Jeffrey David Wright, a fourth year student in BA Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management at SWUIC, provided practical recruitment insights. Nicha Ratanakul, Senior Manager – Human Resources, Dusit International, and Pirasak Momin, Owner-Representative & Senior Consultant to Owner/CEO, PROMM Hospitality Group, discussed what recruiters look for in young candidates. They highlighted the importance of attitude and interpersonal skills, as well as preparation strategies to help fresh graduates stand out during interviews.
To complement the panels, Marriott International and PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter conducted two interactive student workshops, offering participants hands-on learning experiences. These included guidance on preparing for job interviews, understanding recruiter expectations, and mock interview sessions featuring representatives from student chapters who practised responding to questions that are often encountered in job interviews.
For event photos, visit the PATA TV Flickr archive: www.flickr.com/photos/patahq/albums/72177720328614249/
PATA remains committed to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals. For more information on sponsorship opportunities for future youth programmes, please visit www.pata.org/youth or contact YTP@PATA.org.
