They include 20-year-old Indonesian/Dutch activist Melati Wijsen, who at just 12 years old founded Bye Bye Plastics – a global movement powered by youths around the world to end the use of plastic bags – and in 2018, alongside her sister, was named one of the ‘world’s most influential teens’ by Time Magazine.
Taking place in the Philippines from 20-22 April, the global tourism body’s 21st Global Summit will see industry leaders gather with more than 20 government representatives to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery.
South Korean politician Ban Ki-Moon who served as the eighth secretary general of the United Nations between 2007 and 2016 will address delegates virtually.
Also taking to the stage at the Global Summit will be the tourism ministers from Spain, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, Japan, Maldives, and Barbados.
Julia Simpson, WTTC president and chief executive, said: "We are delighted to have such influential speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Manila.
"Melati is an inspiration to us all. A real changemaker, who from such a young age, has been instrumental in raising awareness of the damage caused by plastic and has inspired young people around the world to lead change."
