Lao Star is asia tourism’s face of the future

Yet another gong for LANITH – young local star shows commitment to sustainable development of the industry.

Every year, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) awards its "Face of the Future" to an exceptional travel and tourism rising star who exhibits initiative and leadership in advancing tourism, and demonstrates commitment to the sustainable development of the Asia Pacific travel industry.

This year, PATA placed this crown on Lanith Core Faculty Member, Soulinnara "Nara" Ratanavong, at an awards presentation at the Association’s Annual General Meeting on 17 May 2014, in Zhuhai, China.

Ms Ratanavong said, "I am very grateful to receive this prestigious award; I would like to thank the Lanith Team and PATA for trusting me as the 2014 PATA Face of the Future." 

PATA CEO Martin Craigs, stated, "This year, the Face of the Future programme attracted a great number of strong candidates," however Ms Ratanavong deserved the top recognition for her accomplishments.

 "My greatest accomplishment is choosing the right career, and I’m enthusiastic about tourism," Ms Ratanavong explained. "Lanith played a critical role in sending me in the best direction, as I want to be a teacher and share my experience with students. Also, Lanith is a great team…I’m just one person."

The 28-year-old Ms Ratanavong’s journey into tourism and Lanith started in secondary school. She recognized the potential of Lao tourism, the career opportunities, and its importance to the nation’s economy.

"When I graduated from high school…no Lao colleges offered tourism programmes," she said. "Still, I knew pursuing a career in the travel trade was a good decision. Now the industry is growing, and I’m growing with it."

When named "Face of the Future", she announced, "I hope to explore new experiences and share them with future generations."

Ms Ratanavong’s first tasks are to introduce the Lanith system to Chinese students, and then travel to Germany to attend IMEX, on 20-22 May.

 "Going to IMEX is an excellent opportunity for me, Lanith, and Lao tourism," Ms Ratanavong said. "I’ll have the chance to build a network with leading global tour operators, booking engines, destination marketers, airlines, and hotels."

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