The event was attended by more than 270 participants aged between 16 to 22 years from the University of Johannesburg, International Hotel School, Varsity College, HTA School of Culinary Art, St Anthony’s, City & Guilds, Cathsseta, Harambee, Kukua and the South African Chef’s Association.
Vice president of Hilton Worldwide, Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands, Jan van der Putten, addressed pupils eager to work in hotels. He said, “Tourism is the biggest industry in South Africa and we want you to get a feel of what it’s like to work in hospitality.”
“Today is about preparing you for success in the work fields,” he said.
He told the audience about the rise of the hospitality industry and how it keeps growing within South Africa. Wanting to keep the Hilton Hotel brand forever growing, van der Putten offered graduates internships in sales, food and beverage, housekeeping and human relations. “South Africans are very hospitable and that is what hotels are looking for. Come work, make a living and have fun,” said van der Putten.
Director of Tourism and Hospitality for the University of Johannesburg, Dr Dianne Abrahams believes hospitality means inviting guests and strangers into your space. She said, “People in the industry are disciplined and enjoy hosting or serving others.”
“They have an eye for details and are well presented,” she added.
She told the pupils that their attitude will determine their actions in the hospitality and hotel industry. “Be positive, dream big and live large,” she stated.
Barry Letjane from Ekurhuleni West College is studying towards a City & Guilds qualification. He said, “I learnt a lot about the hospitality industry and the career opportunities available to me in the future.”
Hilton Sandton is investing more than R3 million in 110 learnership opportunities, including 90 six-month and 20 12-month individual training programmes.
Further opportunities include three culinary apprenticeships lasting three years and the company will work with partners such as Harambee Youth Employment and the Kukua Development Corporation to source and place participants on further internships or learning programmes.
