Vita Student Celebrates Strong Indian Student Community and Expands Offerings for a Globalized Living Experience

Vita Student Celebrates Strong Indian Student Community and Expands Offerings for a Globalized Living Experience

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 24, 2024

Vita Student is thrilled to announce that it currently hosts approximately 10% of Indian students across its properties, showcasing the vibrant presence of this community within its diverse global student base. As the trend of Indian students pursuing education abroad continues to rise, Vita Student is dedicated to enhancing their living experience through strategic partnerships and tailored services that create a welcoming home environment.

To better serve this thriving community, Vita Student has formed alliances with several education consultants in India. These partnerships guide students toward premium accommodations, bolstering the brand's reputation among Indian students aspiring to achieve their career goals. While formal programs with Indian universities are not yet in place, Vita Student is focused on expanding these relationships to address the specific needs of Indian students seeking high-quality, globally connected living experiences.

Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth – India, expressed excitement about this initiative, stating, "We are thrilled to see the growing number of Indian students choosing Vita Student as their home away from home. Our partnerships with education consultants are just the beginning of our broader effort to ensure Indian students have access to the best accommodation options while studying abroad. We aim to create a supportive and culturally inclusive environment that helps them thrive academically and socially."

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Cultural inclusivity is a key focus for Vita Student, which hosts events celebrating festivals like Diwali and Holi, fostering a sense of belonging among Indian students. Additionally, the brand offers diverse culinary options, including popular Indian dishes in communal dining areas, alongside language support to help students from various backgrounds feel at home.

In 2024, Vita Student introduced a range of new amenities designed to elevate the student experience. These include upgraded fitness facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, revamped social spaces, gaming rooms, and cinemas. Some properties have even implemented green roofs and community gardens, reflecting the brand's commitment to sustainability and providing students with eco-friendly environments.

Looking ahead, Vita Student plans to integrate smart home technologies, such as app-based room controls, and expand digital platforms for enhanced connectivity. Sustainability remains a priority, with initiatives for energy-efficient buildings and waste reduction on the horizon. The brand also aims to offer more personalized experiences, including tailored events, workshops, and mentoring programs that support students' academic and personal growth in today's globalized world.

With its dedication to celebrating Indian dreams, Vita Student continues to pave the way for students to achieve global success while feeling at home in their new surroundings.


Le Amanah Takes Honor in Vishal Kamat’s Visionary Leadership

Le Amanah Takes Honor in Vishal Kamat’s Visionary Leadership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 22, 2024

Vishal Vithal Kamat, the Executive Director of Kamat Hotels (India) Ltd., is celebrated for harmonizing tradition and innovation in the hospitality industry. Guided by the ethos of eco-friendly practices and societal responsibility, he continues to uphold the Kamat family legacy while spearheading forward-thinking initiatives that redefine sustainable tourism.

 At the heart of Vishal Kamat's vision lies a commitment to environmental stewardship and social progress. His leadership fosters empowerment through community-driven initiatives, supporting local artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and advocating for sustainable tourism practices. His impactful philosophy extends to the IRA business hotel chain, where 1% of earnings are dedicated to girls' education, reflecting his belief in giving back to society.

 Vishal Kamat's contributions to the hospitality sector have earned him accolades such as the ‘Young Achiever 2013 Award’ from the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce Industry and the ‘Angels of Tourism Award’ by Free Press Journal. As Vice Chairman of CII Maharashtra, he continues to amplify his influence, fostering innovation and collaboration across sectors like tourism, education, and commerce.

 With a passion for nurturing future leaders, Vishal shares his expertise as a speaker at MSME summits, business forums, and leading academic institutions. His dedication to collective growth is exemplified in his role as Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), where he drives initiatives across industries, including tourism, education, and the circular economy.

 Beyond his professional achievements, Vishal Kamat is a voracious reader and an avid traveler, continually seeking to broaden his perspectives. His love for animals reflects his compassionate nature, adding depth to his persona as a leader who values connection and empathy.


Sanjay Kaushik: The Global Hospitality Star Leader of India

Sanjay Kaushik: The Global Hospitality Star Leader of India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 21, 2024

LeAmanah takes pride in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Mr. Sanjay Kaushik (CHBA), honoring him as a Global Hospitality Star Leader in India. A stalwart in the hospitality sector, Sanjay currently holds the esteemed position of Senior Regional Director, Operations, South Asia, at Radisson Hotel Group.

With an illustrious career spanning 29 years, Sanjay Kaushik has consistently demonstrated excellence in the fields of business turnaround strategies, operational efficiency, and marketing. His journey in hospitality is marked by several prestigious national and international accolades, reflecting his exceptional contribution to the industry.

Before joining Radisson Hotel Group, Sanjay served as Chief Operating Officer at The Raviz Hotels & Resorts in Kerala. During his tenure, he spearheaded significant initiatives, elevating the brand’s stature. His leadership at Crowne Plaza Kochi earned him the coveted Kerala State Tourism Award, a testament to his commitment to excellence.

Sanjay’s path to success is both inspiring and unconventional. His journey began as a shopkeeper, followed by a stint as a professional judo player, achieving a Black Belt in 1984. He also served with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) before transitioning into the hospitality industry. His first role in this sector was with ITC Maurya, New Delhi, in 1996.

This unique blend of diverse experiences shaped Sanjay Kaushik into the leader he is today. His relentless dedication, innovative leadership, and passion for excellence make him a role model for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry.

LeAmanah’s recognition of Sanjay Kaushik as a Global Hospitality Star Leader is a well-deserved accolade, celebrating a career defined by resilience, innovation, and remarkable achievements.


Sheraton Grand Bangalore Welcomes Gaurav Tokas as Director of Rooms

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Welcomes Gaurav Tokas as Director of Rooms

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 21, 2024

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway is delighted to announce the appointment of Gaurav Tokas as its new Director of Rooms. With a stellar career spanning over a decade in the hospitality industry, Gaurav brings extensive expertise in hotel operations, guest services, and revenue management.

In his new role, Gaurav will lead the Rooms Division, focusing on enhancing guest experiences, optimizing room inventory, and driving revenue growth. Tasked with ensuring seamless operations, he aims to uphold Sheraton Grand Bangalore’s reputation as a leading destination in Bangalore while delivering exceptional service excellence.

Gaurav's journey in the hospitality sector has seen him excel in various prestigious roles. Prior to this appointment, he served as Room Division Manager at Kochi Marriott Hotel, where he successfully managed operations across corporate, transient, and leisure segments. His impressive portfolio also includes leadership positions at renowned brands such as Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Radisson Hotel Group, and InterContinental Hotels Group, showcasing his ability to lead teams and deliver operational excellence.

Expressing her confidence in Gaurav's capabilities, Sushma Khichar, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway, remarked, "We are thrilled to welcome Gaurav to our team. His expertise in hotel operations, dedication to guest satisfaction, and ability to lead with excellence align perfectly with our commitment to providing an exceptional hospitality experience. We look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our hotel."

An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management, Chennai, Gaurav holds a B.Sc. in Hotel Management and has undergone advanced leadership training through programs like Marriott's Envision Leadership Programme and IHG's Climb Lead Future Leader Programme.

Sheraton Grand Bangalore is confident that Gaurav's leadership will play a pivotal role in elevating guest experiences and driving operational success, further solidifying its position as a top-tier hospitality destination.

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