THE Western Cape Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism Alan Winde, launched a joint initiative between the National Department of Tourism, Ubuntu Exposure and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
The International Internship Programme gives previously disadvantaged Western Cape hospitality graduates the chance to get international experience in their industry through 12 month internships in the United States of America and Canada.
Nine graduates from the Western Cape have been selected to participate. They have been placed with the Ritz Carlton in Florida, and at Whistler Blackcomb in Canada.
The graduates underwent a grueling application process which involved testing and interviews with high-level management from the resorts at which they have been placed.
Said Winde, “During the World Cup, tourists told us that they were overwhelmed by the people of the province, and this has in fact become our strength. We must build on this by driving our reputation as a value for money destination that offers excellent service. These interns will return as leaders in their field, and transfer their knowledge back into our industry.”
The graduates’ performance will be tracked over the course of their internship. When they return, they will be placed within the accommodation sector in the province, where they will share their skills.
