The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) is gearing up for its 24th Global Summit, set to take place in Perth, Western Australia, from October 8-10. This year’s summit, themed “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” will celebrate Australia’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty while focusing on innovation and sustainable development.
The summit will boast a stellar lineup of speakers, including prominent figures like John Kerry, the 68th U.S. Secretary of State, and conservationist Robert Irwin. Kerry will discuss his experiences in navigating global politics, forging international partnerships, and advocating for a more sustainable and resilient future. Robert Irwin, son of the renowned Steve Irwin, will share captivating stories from his wildlife adventures and emphasize how the Travel & Tourism sector can contribute to a future where nature is both enjoyed and protected.
Other esteemed speakers at the event include Di Bain, Chair of Tourism Western Australia; Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, President & Group CEO of Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, Group CEO of Trip.com; Frank Marini, President & CEO of Railbookers Group; Jason Waters, CEO of Perth Airport; Kelly Craighead, President & CEO of CLIA; Francis Gatare, CEO of Rwanda Development Board; and Christie Travers-Smith, Head of Retail and Travel EMEA Partnerships at Google, among many other global industry leaders.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, expressed her enthusiasm about the confirmed speakers, stating, “We are delighted to have such influential speakers confirmed for our Global Summit in the beautiful city of Perth. This is our first ever major event in the Oceania region, and it will bring together many of the world’s most powerful leaders in our sector to discuss and secure its long-term future, which is critical to economies and jobs around the world.”
Government delegations from over 25 countries, including several G20 economies like Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, South Africa, and the U.S., will participate in the event. Representatives from other key economies like Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE will also be present. Adding to the high-profile attendance, the Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji will be among the attendees.
In a new and exciting initiative, the WTTC Global Summit will introduce the Investors’ Nest. This platform will provide a unique opportunity for university students worldwide to present their innovative sustainable tourism ideas to Travel & Tourism investors in a Shark Tank-style pitch session. The winning idea will be announced at the conclusion of the summit, showcasing the next generation of sustainable tourism pioneers.
The WTTC Global Summit 2024 promises to be an impactful event, driving discussions and fostering collaboration towards a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for the Travel & Tourism sector.
