Twelve students of the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI) participated in a two-day leadership training coordinated by Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa.
The “work experience” was afforded to students from the hospitality and tourism management, front office and restaurant operations, culinary arts and basic cookery programmes to experience some time in the life of a hospitality leader at Sandals, a release said.
With a 7.45am arrival time on the first day, March 13, the students were greeted by General Manager of Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa Matthew Cornall and Public Relations Manager Leon Norville.
“We are excited to host the students as a part of our community outreach initiative for March 2023. Coming out of the Covid era, we understand the need for trained hospitality professionals and continue to make our contribution. Our aim is to see a seamless transition from the Hospitality Institute to the work world,” Norville said.
From meeting the managers to orientation, the students were thrilled to participate in the events planned. The knowledge gained will serve as part of their preparation, as second year students who are nearing completion of their studies and preparing for their upcoming internships, the release added.
After learning about the Sandals brand, a tour of the hotel facilities, lunch, and a question and answer session, it was time to get into work mode.
The next day, the students were coupled with leaders from various departments to include cost control, food and beverage, water sports and Club Sandals.
Meanwhile, the Chair of the ABHTI Board, Shirlene A Nibbs, expressed delight at the opportunity afforded to the students.
“Over the years, stakeholder partnerships have played an integral role in the professional development of our students. Opportunities like these are always welcomed and is consistent with the ABHTI brand of ‘excellence’ and we are grateful to the team at Sandals for engaging with the institute as a key private sector partner,” Nibbs said.