Inaugural Forum Opens in Vava’u, Tonga to Champion Youth Leadership across the Region

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) officially launched the inaugural Pacific Youth Forum on Sustainable Tourism (PYFST) today in Vava’u, Tonga, with a powerful opening address by SPTO Chair Lady Adela Issachar Aru. The Forum marks a historic milestone for the region, placing youth leadership at the heart of tourism’s transformation.

Held under the theme “Empowering Tomorrow – Youth as Catalysts for 2030,” the Forum convenes young innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from across the Blue Pacific Continent. Its purpose: to strengthen youth leadership and co-design a tourism future that is sustainable, inclusive, and culturally grounded.

SPTO Chair Lady Adela Issachar Aru, welcomed delegates and acknowledged their commitment to building a resilient Pacific tourism sector. “On behalf of the SPTO Board and Secretariat, I acknowledge and extend our heartfelt appreciation to our partners for this tourism forum week, PACER Plus and to the Government and people of Tonga. It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the beautiful Kingdom of Tonga and to this inaugural, face-to-face Pacific Youth Forum on Sustainable Tourism,” she said. “This moment marks the beginning of a journey to strengthen youth leadership across our tourism sector.”

She praised the dynamic contributions of Pacific youth already shaping the sector—from leading community-based tours and developing digital platforms to using art, storytelling, and entrepreneurship to celebrate culture and protect the environment. “This Forum is an opportunity to recognise those contributions, but also to learn from one another and explore how we can continue to empower youth leadership in tourism,” she added.

The Forum is closely aligned with the 2030 Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework, which envisions tourism as a force for good—one that safeguards the environment, uplifts communities, and celebrates Pacific identity. Chair Lady Aru encouraged participants to use the Pre-Forum sessions to collaborate, co-create, and shape the messages they wish to present to regional tourism ministers and stakeholders at the upcoming Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leadership Summit and Council of Ministers Meeting.

“Think about what you want the leaders and partners in Pacific tourism to understand—about your needs, your aspirations, and your potential as young people,” she urged. “I hope you leave Tonga not only with new knowledge and friendships but with renewed confidence in the power of Pacific youth to drive sustainable tourism.”

The Forum stands as a testament to the growing recognition that Pacific youth are not just the future of tourism—they are leading its transformation today.