Marriott International in the Maldives celebrated the graduation of 40 apprentices from the Class of 2026 of its Marriott International Maldives Apprenticeship Program (MIMAP), developed in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT). The event was attended by Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal, representing Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, Abdulla Rafiu, alongside other distinguished representatives from the ministry and MIT.
Marking the successful completion of the program’s third cohort, the graduation underscores Marriott International’s continued commitment to nurturing local talent, developing future hospitality professionals, and creating meaningful career pathways for Maldivians within the company and the broader tourism industry.
A total of 40 apprentices graduated across five key disciplines: Front Office, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage Service, Culinary, and Electrical Installation & Maintenance. The graduates completed a comprehensive program that combines practical, on-the-job training with structured learning, equipping them with the skills and experience needed to build successful careers in hospitality and resort operations.
Launched in 2023, MIMAP has grown steadily, attracting more than 500 applications and engaging 171 apprentices to date, including 73 in the latest intake. The program has produced 74 graduates who have gone on to pursue careers in hospitality and related fields. The continued growth of the program reflects Marriott International’s dedication to investing in local communities and developing a sustainable pipeline of skilled talent for the Maldives’ hospitality sector.
The apprentices gained theoretical part of the curriculum at Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT), followed by practical experience across various disciplines at Marriott International’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, including The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, W Maldives, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort,
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.
In his remarks, Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning and remain committed to personal and professional growth. He underscored the value of perseverance, strong work ethic, and resilience, reminding graduates that their achievements contribute to the progress of their families, communities, and the nation.
“We proudly celebrated another important milestone with the graduation of 40 apprentices, a success that goes beyond the numbers and is reflected in the skills, confidence, and growth of our apprentices, as well as the opportunities the program continues to create for Maldivian youth,” said Amila Handunwala, Chair of Marriott Maldives Business Council and General Manager of W Maldives. “This achievement reflects Marriott International’s commitment to developing local talents through strong partnerships. We thank our government partners, the Maldives Institute of Technology, and our Marriott leaders for their continued support in shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals.”
Marriott International in the Maldives celebrates the Class of 2026, recognising young talent and investing in future hospitality leaders.
