From September 29th to October 1st, 2023, the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) played an active role in the esteemed National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE) held at the NASREC exhibition center. The 2023 NTCE was a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, CATHSSETA, and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, represented by the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA).

Under the theme “Tourism Investments for People, Planet, and Prosperity,” the 2023 NTCE aimed to inspire and encourage young individuals to think innovatively and pursue sustainable livelihoods within the tourism industry through entrepreneurship and government-led programs.

The expo featured a diverse range of activities and events that engaged and educated attendees, making it a resounding success. Some of the notable highlights included motivational talks by prominent local figures in the tourism industry. These figures shared their experiences and insights with the audience, providing inspiration to the next generation of tourism professionals.

In addition to these motivational talks, NTCE 2023 hosted seminars aimed at educators specialising in tourism, ensuring that the knowledge and expertise are effectively passed down to future generations. This educational component contributed to the overarching goal of the expo – nurturing talent and providing learners with a clearer understanding of the potential career paths in tourism.

Exhibitions showcasing local tourism products and related services were another key feature of the event. This allowed attendees to explore and connect with various facets of the industry, further expanding their knowledge and potential career prospects.

Live sessions brought the expo to life, with specialised corners catering to different interests. The “Chef’s Corner” featured a cook-off by graduates of the National Youth Chefs Training Program, offering a glimpse into the world of culinary arts. The “Mixology Corner” demonstrated the art of delightful crafting beverages and cocktails, while the “Hospitality Corner” provided insights into diverse careers within the realm of hotel and event management.

The “Conservation Corner” highlighted the critical importance of nature conservation for the sustainability of tourism. Young individuals with a passion for nature and tourism gained valuable insights on how to join this industry and make a positive impact.

For job seekers and potential employers, the “Virtual Classroom & Recruitment Arena” provided a space to interact, exchange ideas, and discuss various aspects related to job hunting, crafting effective resumes (CVs), and preparing for interviews.

Moreover, the Educators’ Seminar served as a pivotal platform for educators to interact with speakers from a variety of institutions, industry bodies, and organisations.

The commitment demonstrated by the host province in bringing in experts from the tourism and hospitality sectors elevated the NTCE 2023 to a new level of excellence. The event not only inspired the youth but also reinforced the importance of a sustainable and innovative approach to the tourism industry, ultimately benefiting both people and the planet.

The NTCE 2023 successfully ignited a passion for tourism careers and provided a platform for young people to explore the industry’s diverse opportunities, promoting the growth and sustainability of the tourism sector in South Africa.

Please click here for NTCE photos