[By NBC-1TV H. J Yook]Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) has today launched Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality Month, its largest ever global career event showcasing to young people the many opportunities available in the hospitality industry. Throughout the month of May, Hilton Worldwide properties and corporate offices around the globe will host more than 600 events in 54 countries and territories to inform those looking for employment, including young people, about the vast array of exciting opportunities available to all in the hospitality industry.

Young people - the biggest demographic in the world - are facing serious challenges building and growing careers. In 2013, an estimated 74 million young people were unemployed. Career preparation is crucial for these young people and their contribution to our global economy. The travel and tourism industry is the world’s single largest employer, supporting one in every 11 jobs worldwide, and will need to play a leading role in addressing the youth unemployment challenge. Furthermore, studies show that there is a disconnect between the skills companies need and those young people are equipped with when entering the workforce. Only 43 percent of employers surveyed worldwide agreed that they could find enough skilled entry-level workers. Additionally, many young people are not clear on the opportunities that are open to them, with less than half (46 percent) saying they were aware of the sectors where there were many jobs available. Through this initiative Hilton Worldwide wants to ensure all job seekers, including youth, have access to the best available information about opportunities the industry provides.

“To ensure Hilton Worldwide’s continued success it is imperative that we invest in the development of young people around the world, who are our future guests, partners and Team Members,” said Christopher J. Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton Worldwide. “Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality Month events are a truly unique opportunity for our Team Members to inspire and inform young people about careers in the hospitality industry, and to support them by providing guidance on the skills that are vital to succeed in the workplace and beyond.”