Some of the Dart Hospitality Training Programme Graduates pose for a photo with representatives from Dart, Lynn University and Tourism Minister Kenneth Bryan (second from left).

A group of 14 young Caymanians have completed their first step toward a career in the hospitality industry, after completing a three-month immersion that included in-class lessons and on-the-job training as part of the Dart Hospitality Training Programme.

The latest cohort celebrated their graduation at the end of August during a ceremony at Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman.

Now in its third year, the Dart Hospitality Training Programme was launched in 2022 to attract more Caymanians into the hospitality business and ensure those wanting to pursue careers in the field are equipped with the right skills. The current cohort is the third to go through the training, joining 25 previous graduates, many of whom have embarked on careers in hospitality.

“At Dart, we are deeply committed to fostering careers of young Caymanians and ensuring our guests experience the warm hospitality that embodies our Caymankind,” said Joanne Lawson, Dart’s chief of staff and chief administrative officer. “Through our Dart Hospitality Training Programme, we provide hands-on industry experience across our diverse portfolio.”

Many of the graduates have already been offered full-time positions across Dart’s portfolio of hotels including The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa and Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman, and at other Dart-owned companies. 

For the second consecutive year, the programme was delivered in partnership with Florida-based Lynn University. Faculty from the institution facilitated two weeks of in-class training, providing a foundation of what it takes to succeed in the hospitality business. 

“I believe so firmly in what we are doing in Cayman and how we are investing in our people,” said Dr. Katrina Carter-Tellison, the vice president for academic affairs at Lynn University, who hails from Grand Cayman. “This partnership between Dart and Lynn University underscores the pivotal role that education plays in advancing a community.”

Addressing the graduates, Dr. Carter-Tellison challenged them to take every opportunity for further training and advancement that is offered to them as they move through their careers in the hospitality industry. 

Also on hand for the ceremony was Tourism Minister Kenneth Bryan, who challenged the graduates to be the best ambassadors they could be. “By completing this programme, you have demonstrated an impressive commitment to learning and professional development, equipping yourselves with the skills necessary to thrive in a dynamic industry called tourism,” he said. “There’s no better representation of the Cayman Islands’ charm and hospitality than from our own people.” 

Minister Bryan expressed his gratitude to Dart and Lynn University for providing this invaluable training and exposure for young Caymanians.

“By providing this incredible opportunity, you’re not only empowering the graduates here today but also contributing to the strength and the sustainability of our tourism industry by nurturing the well-trained and passionate workforce that you see here today. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and Ports, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s played a part [in making this happen],” he said.

Kiahna Tibbetts, a 2023 graduate who now works as a pastry cook at Ave restaurant at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, described her participation in the programme as a defining moment in her professional journey.

“This immersive experience enriched my understanding of hospitality and equipped me with skills for my future endeavours in the industry,” she told the graduating class. “The Dart Hospitality Training Programme serves as a pathway for aspiring Caymanians interested in hospitality, guiding them towards fulfilling careers.”

Anaya Morgan, one of four graduates to receive special recognition awards for consistently demonstrating exemplary performance, reflected on how she has developed since starting the programme in May. 

“I’ve grown a lot during the last three months of this programme. I will never forget the opportunity that was afforded to me that I am beyond grateful for,” she said. “I would definitely recommend this programme to all my Caymanians out there who want to learn way more than hospitality and the physical works of hospitality.”

Others receiving special recognition for exemplary performance were Isaiah Hurlston, Oladapo Bailey and Allyson Edwards. A special award was also presented to Nazaria Forbes for her consistent improvement throughout the programme. 

The full list of graduates: Oladapo Bailey, Shaleisha Beckford, Daniel Dixon, Allyson Edwards, Nazaria Forbes, Isaiah Hurlston, Marcus Hydes, Ukaeylie Mcbride, Josiah McRae, Anaya Morgan, Eyoli Obi, Alexia Smith, Alia Smith and Jzane Vargas. 

The next intake for the Dart Hospitality Training Programme will be in the first quarter of 2025. For more information, visit www. dart.ky/hospitality.