Air Canada Youth Tourism Leaders Award

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Youth Tourism Leaders Award

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tourism Leaders

Air Canada, in partnership with the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI), is proud to launch the Air Canada Youth Tourism Leaders Award 2026.

As PEI’s tourism industry continues to evolve, the future of the sector depends on the ideas, passion, and leadership of emerging professionals. This award recognizes outstanding young Islanders who are helping shape the future of tourism, hospitality, and visitor experiences in Prince Edward Island.

Through this initiative, Air Canada and TIAPEI aim to elevate youth voices, encourage innovation, and provide a platform for the next generation of tourism leaders to engage directly with industry professionals.

Up to three (3) recipients will be selected to participate in the 2026 TIAPEI Tourism Conference & AGM.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be between 18 and 30 years of age
  • Be either:
    • Currently enrolled full-time in a Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Business, Event Management, Recreation, or related post-secondary program at an accredited Canadian college or university; or
    • Have graduated from such a program within the past three (3) years
  • Provide proof of enrolment or graduation
  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Reside in Prince Edward Island

Video Submission (Maximum 2 Minutes)

Theme: How can we shape the future of tourism in Prince Edward Island and inspire more young people to pursue careers in the industry?

Your video should include:

  • A brief introduction (name, educational institution or employer, and community)
  • Your vision for the future of tourism in Prince Edward Island
  • One idea to attract, engage, or retain youth in the tourism and hospitality sector
  • Why you should be selected as an Air Canada Youth Tourism Leader

Air Canada Youth Tourism Leaders Panel

Award recipients will participate in a featured session at the TIAPEI Conference & AGM:

The Future of Tourism in Prince Edward Island: Perspectives from Emerging Leaders

Panelists will discuss:

  • Why tourism remains a vital economic driver for Prince Edward Island
  • Opportunities for young professionals entering the sector
  • Workforce development and talent attraction
  • Innovation and entrepreneurship in tourism
  • How industry, educators, and governments can better support future tourism leaders

Award Recipients Will Receive

  • Complimentary registration to the 2026 TIAPEI Tourism Conference & AGM
  • Hotel accommodations during the conference
  • Participation as a featured panelist during the Air Canada Youth Tourism Leaders Panel
  • Networking opportunities with tourism, business, government, and community leaders from across Prince Edward Island
  • Recognition by Air Canada and TIAPEI as emerging leaders within the tourism industry

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Air Canada and TIAPEI are committed to fostering an inclusive tourism sector that reflects the diversity of our communities. Applicants may voluntarily complete an optional self-identification questionnaire. Information collected:

  • Is entirely optional
  • Will be used in aggregate form only
  • Will support program evaluation and outreach efforts
  • Will not influence the selection process

All information will remain confidential and be managed in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.

Important Dates

  • Applications Open: TBD
  • Applications Close: September 13, 2026
  • Recipients Notified: End of September 2026
  • TIAPEI Conference & AGM: October 27–29, 2026

Application Requirements

  • Video Submission (Maximum 2 Minutes)
  • Applicants are invited to submit a short video addressing the following theme:
  • "How can we inspire more young people to pursue careers in tourism and hospitality while strengthening Canada's tourism competitiveness?"
  • Your video should include:
    • A brief introduction (name, institution, program of study)
    • Your vision for the future of tourism in Canada
    • One innovative idea to attract and retain future tourism talent
    • Why you would be an effective ambassador for the industry

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Leadership Potential: Demonstrated passion and commitment to the tourism, hospitality, or travel sector.
  • Innovation & Creativity: Original ideas that contribute to the future growth and competitiveness of tourism.
  • Industry Impact: Potential to positively influence and strengthen the visitor economy.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to clearly articulate ideas and engage an audience.
  • Alignment with Theme: Relevance to workforce development, youth engagement, and the future of tourism.

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information or a follow-up discussion.

Nomination form