Accommodation provider YHA Australia has launched a charitable foundation that aims to support young people to experience travel regardless of their location or financial position.
The Travel to Learn Foundation, launched last week, will engage with schools and community groups and partner with established travel businesses to subsidise the cost of travel for those who would otherwise be unable to participate. The Foundation and its partners aim to deliver tours, events, workshops and activities.
Amid growing cost-of-living pressures, research from The Smith Family reveals that 4 in 10 Australian parents believe that their children will miss out on vital educational opportunities outside of school, while 1 in 3 believe their children will miss out on school excursions due to financial stress.
“At YHA Australia, we believe that travel has the power to transform lives,” said YHA Australia CEO, Paul McGrath.
“The ‘Travel to Learn’ Foundation was created to ensure young people are presented with the opportunity to broaden their horizons through meaningful travel experiences.
“By removing barriers that would prevent these young people from accessing meaningful travel experiences whether it be on excursions or extracurricular learning, we aim to inspire personal growth, foster education, and build confidence in those who need it most.
“In the coming years, the Foundation will focus on offering scholarships and programs that enable young people to learn new skills, connect with diverse communities, and develop a global perspective. This initiative is all about empowering the next generation to realise their potential.”
The Foundation will offer funds for tertiary or vocational education for those living in regional and remote areas and support young people facing barriers to employment who wish to work in the tourism and hospitality sectors.