Photo: Minister of Tourism Madam Kubayi-Ngubane
The youth of South Africa have been advised to take opportunity of the republic’s diverse cultural heritage to creat opportunities for employment.
The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane made this call during the youth dialogue series on Saturday 29th June. She said “ South Africa has diverse cultural and heritage offerings that we can leverage on to create opportunities for employment and business.”
“As South Africans we are brand ambassadors for our country. It is through the memorable interactions we have with tourists that we indirectly boost investor confidence in our country.” the Minister added.
Young people are at the forefront of growing the visitor and creative economies.
Madam Kubayi-Ngubane said these sectors can help the country to deal with unemployment and poverty challenges. They need little technical investment, they have a multiplier effect and very dynamic.
“Let’s not all be employment seekers, but be employment creators. There is a whole value chain in Tourism, things you can do as young people. Seek the support as incentives are available ” she observed
The minister revealed the government’s plans to double the international tourists visiting South Africa to 21 million by 2030
The Acting Chief Executive of South Africa Tourism Sthembiso Dlamini said the tourism sector offers multiple opportunities for the youth and she encouraged them to put together innovative ideas that can market South Africa.
On her part, Dr Tashmia Ismail-Saville CEO of the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) said YES is working hard to create opportunities for the youth. She urged the youth to persevere in empowering and preparing yourselves for the world of work.
The Minister, Tourism Leaders and the executives of the Gauteng Provincial Government held a dialogue with youth from the Gauteng Province to commemorate Youth Month.
