28 October 2024
On October 24 and 25, students from the Institute of Creative industries and Hospitality attended the international forum "The Role of Creative Industries in the Socio-Economic Development of Tourist Territories, Including Those in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network." The event took place at the venues of the Legislative Assembly of Saint Petersburg and the Talion Imperial Hotel.
Participants included representatives from Russian and international UNESCO Creative Cities, interested federal executive authorities, regional entities, and the business community. International experts from the tourism and cultural sectors also joined the discussions.
The first day of the conference featured a session titled "Cultural Codes and Sources of Inspiration for Creative Cities," which explored the role of heritage and creative potential in tourism development. Discussions were also focused on creating authentic tourist routes that immerse visitors in the region's atmosphere.
The conference agenda covered such topics as preserving tangible and intangible cultural heritage as a factor in enhancing cities' tourist appeal and leveraging creative potential to ensure the sustainable development of tourism and hospitality enterprises.
Anna Kislitsyna, Rector of the Saint Petersburg State Art and Industry Academy named after A.L. Stieglitz, highlighted: "the foundation for such solutions can be historical traditions, artistic practices, architectural features, and other local cultural codes." The topic of seeking creative solutions in tourism was also discussed.
Nana Gvichiya, Acting Chairperson of the Committee for Tourism Development, admitted: "By developing creative industries as an important factor in socio-economic growth, we create a dynamic and inspiring environment attractive to our guests and comfortable for city residents."
At the session titled "Creative Clusters and Event Initiatives as Tools for the Socio-Economic Development of Tourist Destinations," participants shared their experiences in creating art districts, design centers, and media parks. They also discussed how such facilities boost tourism activity and foster the growth of related industries.
The event in Saint Petersburg made a significant contribution to expanding international humanitarian ties and fostering dialogue between representatives of the creative sector and government authorities.
Alisa Raygorodskaya, a 3rd-year student, shared: " I was deeply impressed by the conference. We got acquainted with new trends in creative industries. It was our first time going on a tour of the Mariinsky Palace and discovering different things about the uniqueness of this historical building. Participating in such events provides students with an opportunity to broaden knowledge for future professional endeavors."