Twenty-Three Graduate From Sandals Antigua’s Hospitality Trainee Programme

Twenty-three young men and women in Antigua & Barbuda ages 18-30 are now better educated about the hospitality industry. They graduated on Friday from Sandals Grande Antigua’s Hospitality Trainee Programme.

During the 10-week programme, the trainees were given first-hand experience in crucial operations in the hospitality sector. They were attached to departments such as the Front Office, Club Sandals Concierge, Bar, Dining Room, Photography and Weddings.

Graduating from the programme was not an easy feat. Not only did the trainees have to learn the ropes of each department, but they had classwork and homework as well. Shameka Brooks, a trainee in the Housekeeping Department, withstood the challenges and excelled in the programme. She was chosen as valedictorian.

“We have a certificate in hospitality and whether we intend to continue in the industry, we can benefit from it,” Brooks said to the graduating class. “I am inspired by the opportunity to work with employees at Sandals.”

Meantime, a trainee in the Bar Department, Troy Joseph, received high commendations for the rave reviews guests gave him. Akilah Clementson and Myriah Barnes were also acknowledged as top performers. “What we are looking to do is provide the Caribbean region with trained professionals,” Training and Development Manager at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa Matara Murphy said. “As a company, we recognise the importance of the hospitality industry to the economy.”

So what’s next for these 23 young men and women? Murphy said some will be hired, depending on the needs of the respective departments. The other names will remain in a database which will be used to fill future positions. Where there are opportunities for our graduates in other companies, the resort is happy to communicate this information to them.

The Hospitality Trainee Programme is in place at all Sandals Resorts and has been in existence in Antigua & Barbuda since October, 2006. Each year, the resort recruits young people to participate in the programme.

In the words of the trainee who was attached to the Public Relations Department, Vanessa Bent: “We are all proud to say that we had the opportunity to train at the best.”

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