Customer service and other skills will be taught to disadvantaged youth in Marriott’s new program.

A new program aimed at offering skills training and employment opportunities to Indigenous and disadvantaged youth in Australia has been launched by Marriott International.

In partnership with Allara Leaning, the new ‘Journeys to Success’ career pathway aims to help young people to get onto the career ladder within the hospitality industry through a mix of skills development, confident building and practical industry placements for on-site experience. Successful graduates of the program are granted a SIT30616 Certificate III in Hospitality.

The program, which begins next month, collaborates with mentors working with youth to hone customer service, teamwork, conflict resolution, safety and hygiene. Five Marriott International in Sydney have signed up to the maiden intake including Sydney Harbour Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott North Ryde, Pier One Sydney Harbour, Four Points by Sheraton Sydney Central Park and Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park.

Marriott International Area Vice President – Australia, New Zealand & Pacific, Sean Hunt, said the company was delighted to partner with Allara Learning to launch Journeys to Success.

“We are a people first company, and we pride ourselves in offering not only a supportive working environment, but an extensive platform for training and development within the hospitality industry. Our partnership with Allara is testament to this, and we look forward to working together to provide this incredible opportunity for disadvantaged youth and help shape the future of hospitality in Australia.”

Allara Learning is a national training organisation focusing on the hospitality, retail and business sectors. It is headquartered in Sydney and operates branch offices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Townsville and Cairns.

“We are excited to be a part of this wonderful initiative. Marriott International is a global industry leader and the Journey to Success program has the potential to offer participants incredible opportunities and affect real change in their lives,” added Allara Learning CEO, Andrew Lewis.