Despite the challenges that women in tourism still face, the World Travel & Tourism Council has revealed data that underscores the pivotal role of women in the global travel and tourism sector. South Africa’s National Department of Tourism (NDT) has also highlighted to Tourism Update the progress that has been made in representation of women in the local tourism industry.
According to WTTC data, women in tourism comprised a significant portion of the sector’s workforce in 2019, accounting for nearly 40% of the total employment.
This marked a substantial increase from 2010, highlighting a 24% surge in direct female employment within the sector, increasing from 38.6 million to 47.8 million.
Key findings reveal that hospitality stood out as the leading employer of women within the travel and tourism sector, with over half (52%) of all female employment in 2019 attributed to this segment.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, emphasised the positive impact of women in the sector…
