From Classroom to Travel Trade, Plett Tourism Intern Benefits from Hands-On Experience
The National Skills Fund and the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Municipality have once again partnered in the Garden Route Skills Mecca, sponsoring over 40 internships at hospitality and tourism businesses in Plettenberg Bay.
For those studying at various institutions these placements are essential to complete their course requirements or, for school leavers, to kick start their careers as chefs and other work opportunities within the tourism economy.
Somila Nkcita is an intern at the Plett Tourism office, working to complete her tourism diploma at South Cape College, which requires practical experience in various sectors of the tourism industry. Just returned from a two-month work and training experience at XL Travel with Anil Varkey, Somila shared her knowledge with her new colleagues and Thembisa Sinxo from Bitou Municipality, who is coordinating the Plett internship programme.
Somila spent her first three months in the Plett Tourism offices, eager to learn about all aspects of tourism. Her journey from the Plett Tourism office to the Xcel travel agency, now finds her at the Bayview Hotel for marketing and practical hospitality skills in reception and front-of-house management, under the guidance of marketing manager, Tessa van der Merwe. Mid-winter, Somila will be back at Plett Tourism for experience in eventing, as the organising of the Plett Ocean Festival gets into full swing.
By the end of the internship, Somila will have gained a clearer understanding of her career aspirations. She may find a passion for management, or she may be drawn to sales, travel or marketing and public relations. A successful internship opens doors to full-time employment, and of course the diploma and successful graduation.
Tourism businesses in Plett are generous in giving their time and expertise to mentor school leavers and tertiary students who face serious challenges as they go out into the world to seek employment. Beacon Island Resort, Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary, Offshore Adventures. Kay and Monty Vineyards, Tenikwa Wildlife and Rehab center and the Plett Tourism Association are to be commended for their contribution to the ongoing training and development of Plett youth, in Plett’s world class establishments.
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