Building the Next Generation of Travel Leaders

Travel Unity’s youth programming connects high school and college students with real-world opportunities in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. From virtual networking and volunteer projects to in-person experiences, we help young people explore careers, develop leadership skills, and create inclusive futures.

Virtual Programs

Ongoing and open to students everywhere

Future Travel Leaders Network (FTLN)

The Future Travel Leaders Network is our virtual hub for youth interested in exploring careers in travel. Students join a national community, access training, and connect with professionals through guest speakers and collaborative projects.

Through project-based volunteering, members apply what they learn by interviewing organizations, assessing inclusion practices, and contributing to real-world case studies that highlight best practices in the industry.

Together, these experiences help students build skills, earn recognition, and make meaningful industry connections from anywhere.

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Future Travel Leader Cohorts

In collaboration with colleges, universities, and professors, these cohorts introduce students to the depth and diversity of the travel industry through virtual sessions aligned with their coursework.

Participants explore specific industry segments, hear directly from professionals, and engage in interactive activities that build both knowledge and community.

In-Person Programs

FTLN: Discover One-Day High School Events

Hands-on career exploration days designed for high school students. Students meet travel professionals, participate in workshops, and see the range of opportunities in travel and tourism.

• Focused on exposure and inspiration
• Tailored for schools and youth groups
• Affordable, easy-to-host model

Future Travel Leaders Summits – Multi-Day College Events

Immersive experiences for college students interested in travel, tourism, and hospitality careers. Summits combine workshops, networking, and site visits to connect students directly with industry professionals.

• 2–3 day event format
• College/university-based
• Builds career readiness and professional networks

Emerging Professionals Conference Experiences

In partnership with destinations and associations, these experiences bring college students to major travel industry events and summits. Students gain real-world exposure through workshops, panels, and networking with professionals while learning firsthand how large-scale events shape the industry.

• Hosted alongside established conferences and summits
• Combines education, mentoring, and professional immersion
• Designed to bridge the classroom-to-career gap

Travel Unity @ TAS (Travel & Adventure Show) Student Visits

We organize local student groups to attend Travel & Adventure Shows across the country. Participants explore exhibit booths, engage directly with travel professionals, and discover the global scope of the travel industry.

• Offered in partnership with schools or open to individual students
• Guided, educational experience of a major travel event
• Encourages career exploration and networking opportunities

Intensive Programs – Customized Partnerships

We co-create in-depth programs with partners like destinations, schools, or organizations. Modeled after the Passport to Leadership program, these multi-week intensives can be customized to meet local needs.

• 4–8 week structure
• Combination of workshops, projects, and industry engagement
• Flexible design for different regions or communities

Why It Matters

The travel industry offers diverse career pathways, from hospitality and events to aviation, marketing, and beyond. Our youth programming ensures that the next generation of leaders is not only prepared but also committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable industry.

Get Involved

Global Scholars Program

Travel Unity’s Global Scholars Program (GSP) was a 4-module leadership program, training students to become ambassadors for Travel Unity in their local communities.

Youth Volunteer Program

This program offered a unique opportunity for change and connection, and for discovering how DEI is present in your community. Participants and a global network of youth, mentors, and industry leaders collaborated with us.

YVP was composed of three sessions. Each session consisted of four weeks of engaging Zoom meetings held every Wednesday, followed by two weeks of independent projects to deepen your understanding further. During weekly meetings, volunteers engaged in a variety of impactful projects. They collaborated with TU advisors on DEI initiatives aimed at shaping a more inclusive future, and created social media content that highlights champions in the community