Youth Symposium 2026 to Take Place in Pohang

PATA Youth Symposium Brings Industry and Students Together in Pohang

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will host its first Youth Symposium of 2026 at Lahan Hotel Pohang on 11 May 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The event is supported by the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization (GCTO), Pohang City, and the PATA Thailand Chapter.

Held alongside the PATA Annual Summit 2026, the symposium will follow the theme “Navigating Towards a Resilient Future”. It will focus on how public-private sector collaboration is shaping the travel and tourism industry and how young professionals can prepare for changing industry conditions.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said the symposium aims to provide students with a clearer understanding of industry trends, required skills, and career pathways. He added that the event will also offer a platform for young participants to share their perspectives.

The programme will include keynote sessions, panel discussions, and student-led conversations. Topics are expected to cover sustainability practices, heritage tourism management, the role of artificial intelligence in tourism, and career development for emerging professionals.

Speakers include Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Jules Shin, Mike Stewart, and Ben-Jie Lim, with additional speakers to be announced.

A networking lunch hosted by GCTO will provide an opportunity for students and industry professionals to connect and exchange ideas.