YCI is a programme that provides practical solution for responsible business in the tourism industry. It is a programme operated by The Prince of Wales International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF). The objective is to provide a life skills education programme for school leavers without alternative opportunities. It aims to empower employability that facilitates young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in gaining respectable employment.
The programme is achieved by bringing together organisations from the private, public and non-profit sectors to collaborate and create needs-focused education programmes – combining theory and practical instruction – that can be implemented at the local level.
The Programme is now operational in Romania, Poland, Brazil, Ethiopia and Thailand. The programme plans to continue its expansion in the Philippines and Indonesia. The Marriott, Starwood, Intercontinental and Accor Groups are official partners of the YCI.
The locations for the training programme PATA Foundation awards its 2006 grants to are in Phuket, Thailand and Queensland, Australia.