As part of its global Community Impact programme focused on advancing digital inclusion and building skills for jobs in the travel industry, Amadeus, a leading global player in the travel and tourism sector, and the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) announce a significant enhancement to their partnership to support the global expansion of the Alliance’s Employability Programme.
This initiative aims to improve youth employment and promote inclusivity by providing young people with the skills and experience needed to embark on their careers in the hospitality industry. The partnership will see Alliance member Amadeus committing to a long-term collaboration as a global partner in the Alliance’s Employability Programme, helping to grow the programme across multiple countries, delivering impactful change to communities worldwide and transforming lives.
The first pilot project with Amadeus began recruiting students in April in India, in collaboration with the local non-governmental organisation Kherwadi. This project will provide support to 200 disadvantaged young people in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi, and will engage local hotels and global brands.
In addition to financial support, Amadeus will contribute to the programme through employee volunteering activities, mentoring, and support in introducing hospitality software.
The Alliance’s Employability Programme focuses on enhancing youth employment and promoting inclusivity. Currently operational in three countries, India, Egypt and Sri Lanka, it has seen over 6,000 young people graduate with the skills and experience needed to embark on their careers.
The programme’s success is rooted in its collaborative approach, working closely with Alliance members, and other hotels, food and beverage businesses, local training partners, and non-profit organisations to address needs and remove employment barriers for young people, particularly women.
Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, welcomes the expansion of the program and the generous support from Amadeus. He says:
“We’re delighted to be working with Amadeus on this pilot, which will have a tremendous impact on local communities and serve as a model for the industry. This partnership with Amadeus illustrates how the hospitality sector can play a vital role in removing access barriers to employment and ultimately change lives. We look forward to expanding our programme globally and transforming the landscape of our industry.”
Francisco Pérez-Lozao Rüter, President, Hospitality, Amadeus, adds:
“At Amadeus, we believe sustainable hospitality means caring for the world around us and making a positive contribution to people, places, and the planet. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to drive social impact in communities where we operate all around the world.”
The Alliance represents over 66,000 hotels and 300 brands and has a network of over 50 expert partners, driving the hospitality industry towards Net Positive – where the industry gives back to the destination more than it takes.
