Empowering Egypt's Youth: Graduates Emerge from Groundbreaking Employment Programme

Empowering Egypt's Youth: Graduates Emerge from Groundbreaking Employment Programme

By Author

Published on March 4, 2024

Egypt’s hospitality sector witnesses a historic moment as the first cohort graduates from an innovative employability programme, signaling a transformative shift in the industry's dynamics. Spearheaded by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance in collaboration with local partners, this initiative aims to enhance youth employment opportunities and foster inclusivity, thereby reshaping the sector's landscape.

Supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the Special Initiative "Decent Work for a Just Transition," the programme is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. Operating under the brand 'Invest for Jobs,' the initiative seeks to create quality jobs in African partner countries and improve local working conditions.

The success of this pioneering project hinges on its collaborative approach, engaging closely with hotels, food and beverage businesses, training partners, and non-profit organizations to address employment barriers, especially for young individuals, including women.

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Operating initially in Cairo and Hurghada, the programme’s inaugural graduation ceremony, held at Le Méridien Hotel Airport, Cairo, marked a significant milestone. Attendees from prominent hotel chains such as Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, and others celebrated the achievements of 50 graduates. The training, spanning three weeks of soft skills development and two months of practical experience within hotels, equipped participants for roles across various departments, including bars, restaurants, reception, and housekeeping.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said “This initiative has had a tangible positive effect on local communities. I'm thrilled to congratulate the graduates, who've shown exceptional drive and leadership. This program will undoubtedly serve as a model for future employment initiatives in Egypt and globally.”

Felix Fach, Consultant GIZ, said “We congratulate the students on their graduation and are delighted the programme has had such a positive impact on the local communities.  We look forward to following the graduates progress as they embark on their careers and hope to welcome more prospective students.”

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Magdy Anis, General Manager of St. Regis Cairo, “Congratulations to all graduates and partners for a great achievement.  We are honoured to be part of this project as it represents Marriott International's commitment to promote social justice, empower women, support their growth, and open up major opportunities for underrepresented populations in our country. By making investments in its growth, we hope to make Egypt's hospitality sector more prosperous and inclusive in the future.”

Karim Shawar, Head of Programmes at Etijah, said “We are very grateful to everyone who contributed and cooperated in creating these opportunities, and we aspire to create more opportunities for the participating youth through our collaboration.”

This initiative is part of the Alliance’s broader efforts to address systemic issues within specific destinations, with a focus on scalability and replication across the industry.

As Egypt’s youth step into the workforce equipped with newfound skills and opportunities, the programme stands as a beacon of hope, driving positive change in the country's hospitality landscape.


Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 19, 2025

Alma Resort Cam Ranh has appointed Yen Dang as its new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With over two decades of experience, Yen is known for her dynamic leadership and creative sales strategies in Vietnam’s hospitality sector.

She steps into the new role at Alma, an award-winning, 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam's Cam Ranh peninsula, after serving as DOSM at Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills. Her previous roles include DOSM at Movenpick Resort Cam Ranh, cluster director of sales at Mercure Vung Tau and ibis Styles Vung Tau, and DOSM during the pre-opening phase of Melia Cam Ranh Bay. She also held the position of director of sales (wholesale) at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

Yen began her career in 2005 as a sales secretary at MGallery La Veranda Resort and Spa in Phu Quoc Island and climbed the ladder to become assistant sales manager. She later held key roles at Novotel Halong Bay, Novotel Saigon Centre, and Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

A graduate in hospitality and tourism management from Ho Chi Minh City’s Van Lang University, Yen brings a strong background in sales leadership, market understanding, and team development.

In her new role at Alma, she will lead sales and marketing strategies across the resort’s key segments and report directly to Frederic Savoye, Alma’s chief commercial officer.

“Yen is a dynamic and creative professional with a wealth of experience with many leading international hotels from Vietnam's south to north,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “Her savvy in leading teams, drawing out each member's strengths, to not only hit but exceed budget places her in excellent stead with our Alma family.”


Sun Guangbin Joins World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Accelerate Asia’s Green Hospitality Transition

Sun Guangbin Joins World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Accelerate Asia’s Green Hospitality Transition

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 18, 2025

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) has welcomed Mr. Sun Guangbin, Senior Vice President of JA Solar, as its new Senior Strategic Advisor for Asia. With over two decades of experience in renewable energy, international trade, and ESG governance, Mr. Sun brings a wealth of expertise that will support the Alliance’s mission to drive Net Positive transformation in the hospitality industry.

Mr. Sun’s journey began in 1997 with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), where he played a pivotal role in international negotiations and policy advocacy for the solar sector. Since 2015, he has led key departments at JA Solar—ranging from strategic development and ESG to legal affairs and compliance—establishing himself as a champion of sustainability.

In addition to his corporate role, Mr. Sun holds several prestigious positions, including Vice Secretary General of the China Photovoltaic Industry Association (CPIA) and Chairman of the New Energy Committee under the China Association of Electric Power Education. He also contributes to the academic and policy space as a visiting professor and advisor to various energy think tanks.

As Senior Strategic Advisor to the Alliance, Mr. Sun will guide long-term planning, forge regional and global partnerships, and represent the Alliance at key renewable energy and hospitality platforms. His appointment is expected to boost the Alliance’s influence across Asia and accelerate its commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality practices.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Alliance, said, “Mr. Sun’s appointment is a strategic leap forward for us. His deep cross-sectoral knowledge and vision will be instrumental in advancing our sustainability goals, especially across Asian markets.”

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Sun remarked, “I’m honoured to take on this role at such a critical time. I look forward to working with the Alliance to integrate renewable energy solutions and drive sustainability as a core pillar of growth for the hospitality industry across Asia.”

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance represents over 66,000 hotels, 300 brands, and more than 8 million rooms, collaborating with hospitality giants such as Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Accor. With a network of over 100 partners, the Alliance is committed to uniting industry efforts to build a prosperous, sustainable future for hospitality worldwide.


S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 17, 2025

S Hotels & Resorts, the international hospitality arm of Singha Estate, has joined hands with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), becoming part of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, a renowned network of 45 independent hotel brands and 850 properties across 100 countries.

Starting July 2025, guests at SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Koh Samui Villas, and Santiburi Koh Samui can experience the new SAii DISCOVERY programme, a local extension of the global GHA DISCOVERY platform. Members will enjoy perks like instant savings, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, and access to exclusive Local Experiences that connect them more meaningfully with their destination.

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This strategic alliance allows SHR properties to tap into a global base of 30 million loyalty members, increasing visibility, direct bookings, and access to data-driven guest insights. The collaboration also unlocks cutting-edge CRM and marketing tools under a shared platform.

The partnership aligns with S Hotels & Resorts’ sustainable ethos. Notably, SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, and Santiburi Koh Samui are members of the GHA Green Collection, which features properties committed to reducing environmental impact and supporting local communities through eco-conscious operations.

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Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Our inclusion in GHA DISCOVERY creates exciting new possibilities for both our guests and our brand. From better insights into guest preferences to higher direct revenue, it’s a win-win. Our guests gain access to DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) to redeem on stays, experiences, wellness, and dining across the GHA network.”

He added, “With just one app, travellers can explore 850 properties in 100 countries. The platform offers unmatched flexibility, personalised service, and member exclusives, making every trip more rewarding.”

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Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, welcomed the addition warmly: “We are thrilled to bring S Hotels & Resorts into the fold. The SAii and Santiburi properties add richness to our collection and reflect our shared commitment to sustainability, cultural immersion, and authentic guest experiences. We look forward to connecting these beautiful resorts with our global community.”

The partnership blends responsible travel, seamless digital convenience, and personalised hospitality, giving SAii DISCOVERY members the chance to enjoy global rewards while staying rooted in local charm.

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