IHG’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment in India
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has embarked on a significant journey to uplift underserved communities in India through a new partnership with The Job Plus and the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC). This initiative aims to provide vital skills training and career opportunities for young individuals eager to enter the hospitality sector. By aligning with the principles of their Journey to Tomorrow responsible business plan, IHG is actively working to close the growing skills gap in the industry.
Addressing the Skill Gap
The hospitality sector faces increasing challenges, particularly as trained workers exit the industry, leaving a noticeable void in skilled talent. Through collaboration with experienced organizations like The Job Plus, IHG aims to tackle this issue head-on. The long-term initiative not only focuses on improving youth employability but also fosters broader economic and social change across communities.
A Pathway to Career Opportunities
Participants in this training initiative will benefit from IHG’s educational sponsorship, enabling them to explore careers that provide financial independence and choice. Rather than being confined to roles determined by circumstance, these young individuals will be equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the hospitality industry.
Hands-On Implementation and Certification
The Job Plus will take charge of the practical aspects of the initiative, leveraging its expertise in skilling and employment across India’s hospitality sector. This ensures that participants receive tailored, on-ground training that addresses real-world demands. Additionally, THSC will play a strategic role in assessing and certifying all participants based on nationally recognized standards, ensuring that the training maintains high levels of quality and relevance.
Voices of Commitment
Sudeep Jain, managing director for South West Asia at IHG, emphasizes the company’s dedication to nurturing local talent and bridging the existing skill gaps within the industry. He believes that creating shared value is essential—not just for IHG and its partners but for the communities they serve. According to Jain, this partnership reflects their long-term commitment to the evolving landscape of hospitality through "True Hospitality for Good."
Strengthening the Talent Pipeline
Divya Krishan, chief growth officer at The Job Plus, highlights that this collaboration aims to strengthen the hospitality industry’s talent pipeline. By aligning the newly developed skills with global hospitality standards, the initiative seeks to establish long-term dignified career pathways for young individuals, thus enriching the entire sector.
Empowering Individuals for Future Success
Rajan Bahadur, CEO of THSC, echoes the sentiment of empowerment and growth, highlighting that true progress lies in providing individuals with the skills needed to succeed. This initiative represents a vital step towards creating equitable opportunities, enabling youth to become confident professionals. By doing so, the program not only benefits the individuals involved but also enriches the hospitality ecosystem as a whole.
Through this collaborative effort, IHG, The Job Plus, and THSC are laying the groundwork for a more skilled, capable, and diverse workforce in India’s hospitality industry, showcasing the power of partnerships focused on community growth and empowerment.