Meet YUTO: Empowering Young Hospitality Professionals in Uganda

Meet the POATE Exhibitors’ Series:

Meet YUTO: Empowering Young Hospitality Professionals in Uganda

Young Uganda Tour Operators (YUTO) is a dynamic association established in 2019, officially registering in 2020. Their mission is to empower and uplift young entrepreneurs in Uganda’s tourism industry. They achieve this by providing a supportive and collaborative environment for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) owned by youth.

A Growing Collective:

YUTO boasts a passionate and driven membership that has grown from its initial 15 founders in 2019 to a current 35 active members. They anticipate further growth, welcoming new young entrepreneurs to their diverse and collaborative community.

Their Objectives:

• Advocacy and Representation: YUTO serves as a strong voice for young tour operators, advocating for their interests and addressing challenges within the industry. They actively engage with government bodies and stakeholders to shape policies that support their members’ growth.

• Networking and Collaboration: YUTO fosters a vibrant platform for members to connect, network, and collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations. They organize regular meetings, workshops, and events to encourage knowledge sharing, idea exchange, and business partnerships.

• Capacity Building and Skills Development: Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, YUTO equips its members with the necessary skills and knowledge through training programs, workshops, and mentoring sessions.

• Marketing and Promotion: YUTO actively promotes the products, services, and destinations offered by its members. They utilize strategic marketing initiatives, digital campaigns, and participation in trade fairs like POATE 2024 to raise awareness and position their members as leading contributors to Ugandan tourism.

• Sustainability and Responsible Tourism: Committed to these principles, YUTO encourages its members to adopt eco-friendly practices, support local communities, and preserve Uganda’s natural and cultural heritage.

Join the Movement:

If you are a young entrepreneur in Uganda’s tourism industry, YUTO offers a supportive community dedicated to your success. Membership benefits include advocacy, networking opportunities, professional development, marketing support, and a platform to voice your concerns and ideas. Together, YUTO and its members aim to shape the future of Ugandan tourism and create a thriving ecosystem for young entrepreneurs.

Visit YUTO at POATE 2024:

Learn more about YUTO and connect with its members at their booth during POATE 2024 at the Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala from May 23rd to 25th.