Global leaders in Travel & Tourism prepare to shape the future at the industry’s most significant event.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced an impressive line-up of speakers for its highly anticipated 24th Global Summit, set to occur from October 8-10, 2024, in Perth, Western Australia. This prestigious event will gather some of the most influential figures from the Travel & Tourism sector, with a central focus on sustainability, innovation, and forging a resilient future for global tourism.
A Stellar Cast of Global Icons
Among the notable speakers set to inspire attendees is John Kerry, the 68th U.S. Secretary of State and Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. Kerry will engage in a candid fireside chat with WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson, where he will share his vast experience in international diplomacy, climate action, and the essential role of collaboration in creating a more sustainable global tourism ecosystem. His insights are expected to underscore the importance of international cooperation in achieving a robust and environmentally conscious future for the sector.
Joining Kerry is Robert Irwin, renowned conservationist and television personality, who will captivate the audience with his unique perspective on the intersection of tourism and nature conservation. Irwin, the son of the legendary “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, will present inspiring stories from his adventures in the wild, highlighting how responsible tourism can contribute to protecting and celebrating the natural world for future generations.
Theme: Ancient Land, New Perspectives
The 2024 summit, themed “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” will spotlight Australia’s deep cultural heritage and unparalleled natural beauty while showcasing the country’s innovative strides in tourism and sustainability. Perth, a city known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant urban scene, will serve as the backdrop for this momentous event, offering delegates a unique perspective on how traditional knowledge and modern innovations can combine to shape the future of travel.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, expressed her enthusiasm for the summit’s location and the exceptional array of speakers:
“We are thrilled to host this landmark event in the beautiful city of Perth. This is our first-ever major summit in the Oceania region, and we are proud to bring together some of the most powerful leaders in Travel & Tourism to discuss the future of our industry. The decisions made here will be critical not only to our sector but to economies and jobs around the world.”
Global Thought Leaders: Driving Innovation and Resilience
The Global Summit will feature high-level discussions with some of the industry’s most influential figures. Key speakers include Di Bain, Chair of Tourism Western Australia, who will discuss how the state positions itself as a leading destination for sustainable tourism. Other notable speakers include Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, President & Group CEO of Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, Group CEO of Trip.com; and Jason Waters, CEO of Perth Airport, each bringing diverse expertise in global tourism trends, technology, and consumer behaviour.
Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, will contribute insights on how emerging economies can harness tourism for sustainable development. At the same time, Christie Travers-Smith of Google will explore how technology revolutionises travel experiences.
A Platform for the Next Generation
In a new initiative designed to foster future tourism leaders, WTTC’s Investors’ Nest will allow university students worldwide to pitch their innovative tourism ideas in a Shark Tank-style competition. This initiative directly responds to the increasing demand for fresh, sustainable solutions within the tourism industry. The winning pitch will be announced after the summit, and the winner will receive industry recognition and support to bring their ideas to life.
Government Support for Global Tourism
The Global Summit will also draw official delegations from over 25 countries, including several key G20 economies such as Argentina, China, Mexico, South Africa, and the U.S. Notably, delegations from Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE will be in attendance, showcasing the event’s wide-reaching global impact. The Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji are also set to participate, underscoring tourism’s vital role in island nations’ economic growth and development.
Perth: A Fitting Host for Global Collaboration
As the host city, Perth offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cutting-edge urban development, providing a symbolic backdrop for the summit’s discussions on sustainable tourism. Western Australia Premier Roger Cook, who will officially open the event alongside Julia Simpson and WTTC Chair Greg O’Hara, emphasized the significance of the summit for the region:
“Hosting the WTTC Global Summit in Perth presents an unparalleled opportunity for Western Australia to demonstrate our commitment to sustainable tourism while showcasing the unique beauty and cultural richness of our state.”
The Future of Travel in Focus
The 24th WTTC Global Summit promises to be a landmark event, uniting global leaders to address the pressing challenges and opportunities facing the Travel & Tourism sector. With a robust lineup of speakers, visionary discussions, and innovative initiatives, the summit aims to shape the future of tourism for a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive global community.
Written by: Anne Keam
