In a major initiative to empower young individuals and bridge the employment gap in the hospitality sector, Marriott International and Accenture in India have joined forces to launch a skill development program aimed at providing hands-on training and career opportunities. This robust initiative is designed to equip youth with essential skills, opening new doors in the hospitality industry and beyond.
Empowering the Youth: A Step Towards Inclusivity
In today’s competitive job market, securing employment often requires both education and industry-relevant skills. However, many young individuals face challenges in accessing higher education and professional training that could significantly enhance their career prospects. Recognizing this gap, Marriott International and Accenture in India have crafted a comprehensive four-month program tailored to prepare participants for entry-level jobs in the hospitality sector.
The program will be implemented with the support of non-profit partners funded by Accenture. These organizations will provide participants with training in hospitality operations and essential life skills for the first two months. Following this, Marriott International will offer eligible candidates paid internships across its 155 properties in India, ensuring a seamless transition from training to real-world experience.
By fostering an inclusive environment, this initiative aims to create a structured pathway for individuals who may not have had access to skill-building opportunities, helping them step confidently into the workforce.
Structured Training and Internship Opportunities
The four-month training program is strategically designed to provide participants with a holistic learning experience:
- Two months of training with non-profit organizations, covering hospitality fundamentals, customer service, operational skills, and personal development.
- Soft skills and mentorship facilitated through employee engagement activities, ensuring trainees are prepared for professional settings.
- Two months of paid internships at Marriott International properties, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience and financial support while applying their newly acquired skills in a real-world setting.
This structure ensures that young aspirants not only receive knowledge but also practical exposure to the industry, giving them a strong foundation for long-term career growth.
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Leaders Speak: A Vision for Sustainable Change
Ms. Ranju Alex, Area Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the hospitality sector. She shared:
“The core values of our organization are deeply rooted in the belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities. Unfortunately, barriers often prevent many talented individuals from pursuing their aspirations. To address this, we are proud to offer a two-month paid internship program following the completion of the skill development process. This initiative not only provides young talent with hands-on experience but also ensures financial support for every participant, empowering them to take confident steps towards building rewarding careers in the hospitality sector. By investing in their growth, we aim to cultivate a more inclusive and skilled workforce.”
Ajay Vij, Senior Country Managing Director at Accenture in India, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s role in creating large-scale impact:
“We are excited to collaborate with Marriott International on this project. The initiative furthers our objective of creating impact at scale and reflects our commitment to providing our youth with the resources and opportunities needed to be employment-ready in today’s competitive environment. We are not only investing in their future but also investing in building a sustainable future for the communities we live and operate in.”
A Commitment to Meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Beyond its direct impact on participants, this initiative represents a larger movement toward responsible corporate engagement in skill development. The collaboration between Marriott International and Accenture in India exemplifies how corporations can take proactive steps to address economic and social challenges through structured CSR efforts.
By focusing on equipping young individuals with relevant skills and work experience, this project sets a benchmark for industry-wide initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable employment opportunities. It also highlights how businesses can play a pivotal role in shaping the workforce of the future, ensuring that talent is nurtured and channeled effectively into growing sectors like hospitality.
Breaking Barriers and Creating Opportunities
One of the most significant aspects of this initiative is its focus on breaking barriers—whether economic, social, or educational—that prevent youth from entering the professional world. By providing training, mentorship, and financial support, the program ensures that aspiring individuals are not held back due to lack of access or resources.
Moreover, the program doesn’t just stop at providing jobs; it aims to create career paths, giving young professionals the confidence and skills needed to grow within the industry. This is a long-term investment in human potential, fostering a workforce that is not just trained but also motivated to succeed.
A Future-Focused Initiative
The hospitality sector continues to be a key contributor to India’s economy, and programs like these are instrumental in ensuring that the industry has a steady pipeline of skilled professionals. By bringing together corporate expertise, non-profit partnerships, and youth engagement, Marriott International and Accenture in India are setting a precedent for how businesses can drive meaningful change.
As the program unfolds, it is expected to create a ripple effect, encouraging more organizations to step forward and contribute to skill development initiatives. With the right support, the youth of today can become the leaders of tomorrow, strengthening the hospitality industry and beyond.
This initiative is not just about training and employment—it’s about empowering individuals to dream bigger, achieve more, and build a sustainable future for themselves and their communities.