South Africa’s recent unemployment rate highlights that half of the population under the age of 34 is jobless. This rate has risen steadily, affecting a significant portion of the population. This matter demands immediate attention and concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including the private sector. By leveraging resources, expertise, and commitment to social responsibility, this approach potentially serves to make a tangible impact on this critical issue.
As a leading hospitality company with a strong presence in South Africa, Marriott International recognises that developing essential skills and providing access to quality training is key to reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth.
Through strategic partnerships with local educational institutions, and vocational training centres, the company aims to bridge the skills gap and empower individuals to seize employment opportunities within the hospitality sector.
The Khulanathi programme launched in 2021, sees a select group of talented South Africans on the fast track to leadership in the hospitality industry. Khulanathi, which means “grow with us”, has been developed as a year-long intensive programme exclusively for internal participants to access world-class leadership theory, teachers, and on-the-job mentorship. The programme was designed in partnership with Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (SBS-ED) to focus on providing development opportunities for future senior leaders in SA focusing on management development skills.
The opportunities of the Khulanathi programme stretch beyond local property retention, candidates such as Samir Ramdial have been promoted from the Food & Beverage Manager of the Protea Wanderers to the Hotel Manager of the Marriott Kigali in Rwanda. Locally, Bosele Mogamisi getting promoted from Assistant general manager to Hotel Manager of the Protea Fire & Ice! Melrose Arch too.
“Khulanathi is a rigorous programme, and the successful completion of our 6-month Management Development Programme as part of their career development journey will represent a life-changing experience for the participants. We believe we have the right young South Africans ready to be fast-tracked through a lot of hard work and determination. We look forward to making a significant impact by developing talented local leaders in partnership with Marriott International.” said Marié van Wyk, Business Developer at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (SBS-ED)
Separately, in recognition with supporting youth employment, Marriott International’s Accelerate Programme is focused on equipping individuals with the necessary skills to pursue successful careers in the hospitality industry.
Initiated in 1986, the five-year Accelerate Programme is carefully curated to target and upskill the youth, providing comprehensive training that empowers aspiring professionals with the knowledge and expertise required to excel in various roles within the sector. The class of 2023 completed the programme with 100% retention post-graduation, with 9 graduates moving to the middle east to acclaimed properties such as the Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai and St. Regia Abu Dhabi.
“Addressing the employment crisis requires a collective effort from all sectors of society,” said Benjamin Memani, Area Director of Human Resources, Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International “. We believe that by investing in skills development and creating sustainable employment opportunities, we can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and contribute to the overall economic development of South Africa.”
The state of unemployment in this country starts with the commitment to social responsibility which extends beyond skills development. The development of initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, enables individuals from all backgrounds to excel and contribute to the thriving hospitality industry.