Mary Powell – Lead Instructor
In Hospitality class, students hear us say, “Smile!” “Remember to speak loudly and clearly!” “Show that you care” over and over again – so much that some of them might have been getting tired of hearing it. That is, until last Thursday.
On Thursday, all 50 students took their first field trip as a team to visit a new luxury hotel that is slated to open in May. The Food and Beverages Manager, Asli Kutlucan, gave students a tour of The Manor’s new grounds, explaining each of its restaurants and shops, the pool and the guestrooms. The most galvanizing part of her talk, however, was hearing what the managers are looking for as they begin to hire their team.
The Manor has been having trouble finding enough employees because Rwanda lacks a strong workforce in the service sector, especially English speakers. Aside from having a lack of experience, many applicants have been extremely quiet and shy or not assertive enough. First and foremost, The Manor is seeking employees with a confident attitude, a willingness to learn, and a welcoming presence – the same things Akilah students practice daily with their teachers!
Run by a small team of strong women, The Manor was a reminder to our students that, with confidence and the skills they are honing at Akilah, they can do anything. And it was a reminder to the Akilah staff that each day we spend with our students brings them one step closer to success.
Akilah women will be unstoppable – they joined Akilah with energy and passion and will depart with the confidence, leadership and professional skills that will enable them to soar ahead and lead this industry.
The happiest surprise was learning on Monday morning that one of our students had returned to The Manor on Saturday – she was interviewed and then immediately offered a position. Here they come!
Half of the Akilah class with Asli Kutlucan, Food and Beverage Manager, and Debby Leatt, Head Chef, at the Manor Hotel in Kigali
CLICK ON MORE TO SEE PICTURES FROM THE FIELD TRIP
The tour begins in the reception area
Akilah students head into the entrance of The Manor Hotel in Kigali
Asli explains the layout of the pool and restaurant area
Enjoying the beautiful views from the balcony of the Indian restaurant
Students ask questions about career development in the rapidly growing hospitality industry