A vibrant example of Maldives’ commitment to nurturing its future tourism leaders unfolded recently at Siyam World Maldives, where students from Kudafari School were given an immersive introduction to careers in the hospitality sector. The half-day “Discover Tourism: Explore Career Pathways” programme, held in partnership with the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), brought together 21 Grade 9 and 10 students for an unforgettable learning experience.
Hands-On Exposure to Resort Life
With Travel and Tourism as part of their academic curriculum, the students explored the dynamic ecosystem of resort operations through a curated blend of guided tours, live demonstrations, and interactive sessions. Siyam World’s dedicated teams provided insights into diverse departments including front office guest services, culinary arts, recreation, and sustainability practices.
The students observed first-hand the teamwork, attention to detail, and professional discipline that underpin exceptional guest experiences. The programme also shed light on the operational excellence required to maintain an eco-conscious resort, with sustainability practices woven into daily resort life.
A Collaborative National Initiative
This session marked the eighth edition of MATI’s nationwide Discover Tourism programme, which aims to inspire young Maldivians to consider meaningful careers in the country’s leading economic sector. Previous sessions have been held at various resorts and organisations as part of this long-term initiative to bridge classroom learning with industry practice.
Representing MATI at the event were Executive Director Rafil Mohamed and Communications Strategist Reena Abdul Wahid, while Siyam World’s Director of Training and Development, Ahmed Ibrahim, led the students through the day’s activities. Their combined experience helped contextualise tourism not just as an industry, but as a career path full of purpose, passion, and potential.
Siyam World: A Destination Committed to Youth Empowerment
Situated on a 54-hectare natural island in Noonu Atoll, Siyam World is one of the largest island resorts in the Maldives. The all-inclusive resort features a unique blend of luxury and barefoot adventure, offering guests a wide range of experiences across its 472 villas, world-class dining venues, and exceptional wellness and leisure facilities.
Beyond hospitality, Siyam World is equally invested in community development and youth empowerment. Through initiatives like Discover Tourism, the resort plays an active role in encouraging curiosity, ambition, and creativity among young Maldivians.
A representative from Siyam World noted that cultivating interest in tourism careers among local youth is key to securing the long-term sustainability and excellence of the Maldivian tourism industry. The resort’s leadership believes that the future of hospitality lies in empowering talented, homegrown professionals to lead the next era of the Maldives’ global tourism success story.
With consistent collaboration between MATI and leading resorts like Siyam World, Discover Tourism continues to grow in influence. It is more than just a programme, it is a stepping stone for young people to envision themselves as part of the Maldives’ vibrant tourism tapestry. These efforts serve as a reminder to visitors and stakeholders alike that Maldives is not only a world-renowned destination but also a country deeply committed to shaping the future of its tourism through education, inclusion, and innovation.
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