Marriott International Maldives has announced the commencement of the second-year cohorts for its Marriott International Maldives Apprenticeship Program (MIMAP) during a grand ceremony held on 5 June 2024 at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including His Excellency Mr. Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Vice President of the Republic of Maldives, and the Honourable Ibrahim Waheed, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts. Joining them was Rajeev Menon, President of Asia Pacific Excluding China (APEC) for Marriott International, alongside other key leaders from Marriott International.
The commencement ceremony marked another significant milestone for Marriott International and the Maldivian government, building on the successful graduation of MIMAP’s inaugural cohort. This year, 60 apprentices received their appointment letters, officially welcoming them into the program. The event featured motivational speeches from prominent figures, including Minister Ibrahim Waheed, who underscored the importance of empowering Maldivian youth, who make up 43% of the population aged 18-35. He emphasised the critical role of the National Apprenticeship Program (NAP) in creating a skilled workforce and reducing unemployment.
Launched on 9 May 2023 as a pilot project in partnership with NAP, MIMAP is part of Marriott International’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, TakeCare. The program offers a unique 10-month blend of on-the-job and classroom training, equipping apprentices with essential skills in hospitality. Participants gain theoretical knowledge through the approved curriculum of the Maldives Skill Development Authority (MNSDA) and practical experience across Marriott’s portfolio of Maldivian resorts, including The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa; W Maldives; Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa; Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.
Rajeev Menon highlighted Marriott International’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, stating, “Our People First culture drives everything we do at Marriott International. We are strong advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and our commitment to these principles is demonstrated by this program, which ensures equal opportunities for all through access to training, skill development, and employment across various roles within the tourism industry.”
MIMAP has already shown remarkable success, with an 86% retention rate and many graduates securing full-time positions within Marriott International. The program’s first year saw 43 graduates, 37 of whom are now employed as full-time associates. Recently awarded the Training and Development Programme of the Year at the Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024, MIMAP is a testament to its impact and success in the industry.
As the first international hospitality brand to collaborate with the government apprenticeship program, Marriott International Maldives continues to demonstrate its dedication to nurturing local talent and supporting the growth of the country’s tourism industry. This ongoing commitment is pivotal in ensuring the sustainable development of the Maldivian hospitality sector.
