Srinakharinwirot University to host the PATA Youth Symposium 2025

 
 
 

BANGKOK, August 11, 2025 – The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise the PATA Youth Symposium 2025 at Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok, Thailand on Monday, August 25, before the start of PATA Travel Mart 2025. The event is generously hosted by the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University (SWUIC) in collaboration with Bangkok University International (BUI).

The symposium - featuring interactive panel discussions, inspiring student-led dialogues, and exciting opportunities to connect with industry leaders from across the Asia Pacific tourism industry - is set to equip young professionals with the tools to become “career-ready” in a rapidly evolving industry.

"Empowering youth is not just an investment in their future, it is an investment in the future of the tourism industry. Together, as an industry, we must build the bridges that lead them from aspiration to achievement.” stated PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “It is one of PATA’s proudest works to guide the new generation of tourism professionals, both those who have only begun their journey and those who are excelling towards their goals, and ensure that they are ready to overcome obstacles and seize the opportunities once they join the workforce.”

He continued, “PATA is, of course, grateful to our host, the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University, and all participating organisations for joining us in supporting the rising stars of our industry. Without them, this event would not be possible.”

Thanakorn Thongprayoon, Dean of the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University, commented: “SWUIC is truly honoured to host this inspiring and forward-looking event. The PATA Youth Symposium 2025 aligns closely with our mission to foster globally minded graduates who are not only career-ready, but also committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive future for the tourism industry. We believe in the power of youth, and by connecting them with industry leaders, we can ignite new ideas and drive meaningful change in our shared future.”

As the host of the PATA Youth Symposium 2025, SWUIC will warmly welcome all participants to its campus. The institution is committed to shaping students into global citizens with a deep understanding of sustainability and diversity, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills essential for today’s world. It offers the ideal setting to explore current career pathways in travel and tourism and examine the trends shaping the industry’s future.

Brief Overview of the Programme

On August 25, the Symposium is set to commence with two inspiring keynote speakers: Sophia Montgomery, Physics Student at Harvard University and Paris 2024 Olympian in Women's Dinghy Sailing, and Jonathan Low, CEO, Global Success Learning Academy.

The programme will continue with an interactive panel discussion featuring graduates who have successfully transitioned into the tourism workforce. Participants are encouraged to engage in this two-way dialogue that bridges experience with ambition.

On practical career insights, the symposium will hold two additional panel sessions. During, “Uncovering the Unseen: Discovering Hidden Careers in Tourism,” experts from the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), Intrepid Travel, and iSanook Hotels & Resorts will highlight niche and lesser-known career paths in the tourism sector that students may not have previously considered. Later on in, “Career-Ready: How to Impress Recruiters,” human resource professionals from Dusit International and other leading companies will share actionable tips to help students better prepare for the job market.

The day will conclude with a Student Chapter workshop, to be co-organised by PATA Thailand SWUIC Student Chapter and the PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter.

For up-to-date information and agenda, please visit www.pata.org/pata-youth-symposium-2025 or contact Eunkyu Chun (Nick), Manager - Membership & Youth Programme, PATA at Nick@PATA.org.

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.

About SWUIC

The International College for Sustainability Studies (SWUIC) at Srinakharinwirot University was established in 2004 with the primary mission of providing international academic programs to university students. Since its inception, the college has been dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of both the natural environment and cultural diversity. SWUIC offers two undergraduate international programs: Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM), and Language and Intercultural Communication (LIC). These programs are designed to cultivate knowledgeable, capable, and globally minded graduates who are equipped to address both local and global challenges. The curriculum is firmly rooted in the college’s core values: Integrity, Internationalization, Communication, Community, Cultural Adaptability, and Sustainability. These principles ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also socially responsible and ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

About Bangkok University International

Bangkok University (BU) is one of the oldest and most famous private universities in Thailand. BU has operated since 1962 with Pol. Capt. Surat and Mrs. Pongtip Osatanugrah’s resolution to found a non-profit private university to develop modern graduates to serve the country. BU has strived for quality education to empower students to unleash their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit with theoretical and practical knowledge and skills. Quality education at BU is provided through highly qualified faculty, efficient supporting staff, modern technology, stimulating learning environment, and international cooperation. Hospitality and tourism programs at BU are among the best in the region.

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