The Government is to support a student networking event encouraging them into hospitality careers.

Minister of Economic Development and Tourism Jamahl Simmons announced a partnership between his ministry and the Bermuda Hospitality Institute, which is organising a Student Network event at the Fairmont Southampton on February 22.

For the past eight years, the Bermuda Hospitality Institute has worked with its stakeholders and partners to develop Bermudian talent in the hospitality industry. It has collaborated on training programmes at Bermuda College, the Department of Workforce Development as well as programmes in the primary, middle and senior schools.

Mr Simmons said at a press conference this morning: “We are pleased to support this event and other programmes being developed to get more Bermudians employed in the hospitality industry.

“In recent years many young Bermudian students have re-entered the workforce through the hospitality industry.

“The Ministry of Economic Development and Tourism is committed to getting young people working in the industry and satisfied with making hospitality a career choice.”

Mr Simmons said that with new hotels and restaurants “set to open”, the industry will need Bermudians working in all areas of the industry.

“As outlined in the Speech from the Throne, our government is committed to revitalise and work in partnership with Bermuda Hospitality Institute to give our students the opportunities to be trained and certified to work in the industry. We recognise that the work the Bermuda Hospitality Institute is engaged in is helping to bring students back to the industry.”

Bermuda Hospitality Institute executive director Malika Cartwright added: “The [Student Network] event will feature a panel discussion with Bermudians in the industry speaking about their experience and journey in this exciting industry and a round table discussion with leaders in the industry. Additionally, students will have an opportunity to network and possibly be asked to interview for summer positions.”

High school, seniors and college students are invited to the hospitality networking event on February 22 from 1pm to 4pm. The event will take place at the Fairmont Southampton in the Gardenia Rooms.

• To register, e-mail admin@bhi.bm with a résumé attached, if available