Inspiring future tourism leaders

Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism’s Ashleigh Kindred aims to inspire the next generation to pursue a career in tourism via the Young Tourism Leaders program.

MBRIT’s Destination Marketing and Public Relations Manager has been selected for the program which engages directly with school, vocational and tertiary students.

Ashleigh will be involved in career events, sharing insights of her professional journey, promoting the diversity of work in tourism and offering advice on how to kickstart a career in the industry.

The Young Tourism Leaders program is an initiative of the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport, supported by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training and the Department of Education.

“Being a Young Tourism Leader will allow me to play a pivotal role in the growth of Queensland's tourism industry, directly benefiting the City of Moreton Bay,” she says.

“By inspiring and educating young minds in Moreton Bay about the exciting possibilities within tourism, I will contribute to the development of a skilled and motivated workforce for the future.

“This, in turn, enhances the appeal and sustainability of Moreton Bay as a tourism destination, fostering economic growth and community spirit.”

Ashleigh has almost 10 years’ experience in marketing and is looking forward to sharing her expertise in destination marketing and public relations.

“As a Young Tourism Leader, I am committed to actively engaging with students across various educational levels,” she says.

“After trying my hand in a few different industries since kicking off my marketing career, I always found myself gravitating back to the tourism industry, allowing me to cultivate a dynamic and successful career.

“My experience spans strategic planning, creative content development and effective storytelling - all crucial components in promoting tourism. This background positions me well to offer practical and inspiring guidance to the next generation of tourism professionals.”

Worthy recognition

MBRIT CEO Natassia Wheeler says Ashleigh’s selection for the program is recognition of her commitment to professional growth and a testament to her role as a dynamic and influential up and comer in tourism.

“Ash's acceptance into the Young Tourism Leaders program is testament to her dedication and impact in the tourism sector,” Natassia says.

“Her role as a marketer, crafting compelling campaigns for Moreton Bay, aligns perfectly with the program's mission to promote role models and showcase the diversity of work in tourism.

“By investing in Ash's development, not only does it benefit her personally and professionally, but it also contributes to the broader goals of the program and the growth of the tourism industry in Queensland.

“Ash is well-positioned to inspire, mentor, and contribute to the continued success and innovation of the tourism sector in the City of Moreton Bay and beyond.”

Ashleigh’s participation in the program has the potential to also benefit MBRIT and the City of Moreton Bay.

“Her involvement in this program will bring valuable insights and experiences back to MBRIT, enhancing the organisation's understanding of emerging trends and strategies in the tourism sector,” Natassia says.

“As a Young Tourism Leader, Ash will be better positioned to foster collaborations and partnerships that can benefit MBRIT and contribute to the region's tourism success. The program is not only an investment in Ash's professional development but also an investment in MBRIT's continued growth and prominence in the tourism industry.

“It will also continue to put the work of MBRIT on a state platform to educate and showcase the capacity and outcomes delivered by this Local Tourism Organisation.”

Natassia says Ashleigh’s involvement will elevate the City of Moreton Bay as a must-visit destination.

“Additionally, Ash's role as a Young Tourism Leader will contribute to the program's goal of attracting the workforce of the future to the tourism industry, potentially bringing more talent and opportunities to the City of Moreton Bay,” she says.

“Ultimately, the City of Moreton Bay stands to benefit from the heightened visibility and positive influence that Ash's involvement in the program will bring to the region.”