When will Africa’s tourism industry ensure a smooth leadership handover to its next generation? That was the burning question at WTM Africa 2025’s panel: “Young Blood Wanted: African Tourism’s Leadership Crisis.”
Moderated by Glenton de Kock, CEO of SAACI, the session spotlighted voices like Luckson Zambuko (African Youth in Tourism and Hospitality Association) and Kagiso Ngwenya (South African Youth in Tourism Network). Their message? Despite much talk of “youth inclusion,” subtstantial roadblocks persist.
“The industry is aging, but no clear succession plan exists,” said Zambuko. “We have ideas and energy, but access is lacking because there are no policies enabling young people to truly step up.”
Beyond just joining organisations, Zambuko stressed young people’s desire to drive new business models. “We don’t just want seats at tables – we want ownership opportunities.”
Ngwenya shed light on how outdated education and funding systems hold young entrepreneurs back. “We weren’t taught practical skills like developing business plans or securing funding,” he explained. “Yet being entrepreneurial is key to our future success.”
Both highlighted how youth insights extend far beyond “youth topics” alone. As Ngwenya stated: “We’re involved enough to discuss anything impacting tourism – but structures still aren’t inclusive.”
Barriers like expensive professional membership fees, investor biases favouring experience over potential, and exclusionary conference criteria plague next-gen aspirants.
“We discuss nurturing the next generation constantly,” De Kock reflected. “But are we truly understanding the realities they face?”
For an industry banking on generational renewal for its own sustainable growth, this panel asked: If that’s the goal, why isn’t succession being prioritised?
To walk the talk, panellists urged:
- Clear succession policies at all tourism organisations
- Subsidised fees for young professionals joining industry bodies
- Funding support for SMEs to host young interns nationwide
- Inclusive dialogue platforms beyond just “youth” conversations
- Revamped education teaching real-world entrepreneurial skills
The core message? Don’t just make space for young voices – invest in their ability to own tourism’s future. An endeavour of such importance demands committed, tangible action.
