Queensland’s new Young Tourism Leaders inducted for 2022

Queensland’s Young Tourism Leaders for 2022 have been inducted at Parliament House with each of  the 28 Young Tourism Leaders of 2022 having been nominated by their tourism industry employer.

Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the 28 Young Tourism Leaders had an important job in 2022 and noted “the primary mission of our Young Tourism Leaders is helping the industry build a pipeline of talented tourism professionals for the future.

“Workplace shortages brought on by the global pandemic illustrate the importance of identifying and nurturing the tourism industry’s leaders of tomorrow.

“Our Young Tourism Leaders from the border to the Far North and Outback have accepted their mission to promote tourism’s diverse career opportunities to their region’s senior high school, TAFE and university students.

“Since the program’s beginning four years ago, 70 Young Tourism Leaders have addressed more than 27,000 students at 300 speaking engagements in classrooms and careers fairs.

“Teachers have told us the enthusiasm and dedication to world-class visitor experiences shown by Young Tourism Leaders resonates with students considering career options.”

Former Young Tourism Leader Nick Ellis said the program had provided a great foundation for his professional and personal development and advised “I've really valued the chance to engage with the next cohort of industry team members and inspire those seeking the fulfilling leadership opportunities tourism creates.

“On a personal level, it has helped cultivate my confidence and presentation skills, and I've made valuable connections that have grown my own career.

“Queenslanders are so lucky to have aspirational destinations and unique products to deliver to the world stage.

“So, when you look at the growth ahead as we steam towards 2032, the endless opportunities that a career in Queensland tourism delivers is undeniable.”

Minister Hinchliffe said the vaccination of Queenslanders had started the State’s tourism industry on the road to recovery and added “the recovery of Queensland’s tourism means opening up a range of professional career opportunities in some of the State’s most liveable and sought-after destinations.”

The Queensland Government has invested $7.5 million in Work in Paradise and Gap Year in Paradise to provide financial incentives for Australians to fill hundreds of job vacancies in North Queensland and Outback tourism this festive season.

The Young Tourism Leaders for 2022 are listed here: