MasterCard and PATA Support Young Talents in Asia Pacific Travel Industry

MasterCard is partnering with PATA to sponsor two awards -Young Tourism Strategist of the Year and Face of the Future - as part of PATA's Young Tourism Professionals (YTP) initiative for 2004.

"MasterCard is delighted to partner with PATA to reward and recognise bright young talents in the Asia Pacific travel industry. They will be the ones fueling the industry's growth and providing future priceless experiences for tourists into and within Asia Pacific," said Mr. Stuart MacDonald, senior vice president, Corporate Services, Asia Pacific, MasterCard. "The travel industry has been through numerous upheavals in the past 24 months, but with every tribulation comes opportunity. The industry is recovering well and exciting prospects beckon those who have the drive and vision to seize these chances."

"We are pleased to see that MasterCard, one of the world's best known brands in travel and retail, recognises the value of our awards and is prepared to invest in the youth of today's travel industry," said Mr. Mac Patel, PATA YTP Chairman. "With the support of strong partners like MasterCard, the travel industry in Asia Pacific will be able to find its feet again and be better prepared for more challenges that will come our way."

Young Tourism Strategist of the Year Award

The PATA Young Tourism Strategist of the Year Award seeks to identify the best young executive in the Asia Pacific travel industry through a 2,500-word essay on one of a variety of industry related topics.

The PATA Honours Committee will shortlist and pick the winning essay and MasterCard will award the author with a US$5,000 research grant to delve deeper into the chosen topic. The Award will be presented at PATA Travel Mart 2004 in Bangkok, Thailand, September 22-24. The winner will also have the opportunity to present his/her research findings to key players in the Asia Pacific travel industry. In addition to the research grant, MasterCard will sponsor the winner's air travel and accommodation.

Face of the Future Award

The PATA Face of the Future Award recognises a young professional who is an upcoming "star" in the industry. Nominees will be judged according to their contribution to the tourism industry, their commitment to the development of tourism and their vision for the future of tourism in Asia Pacific.

This award will be presented at the 53rd PATA Annual Conference in Jeju, Korea (ROK), April 18-22, 2004. MasterCard will sponsor the winner's return air tickets and accommodation to attend the Conference and receive the award.