Cape Town, South Africa – July 2024: Marriott International today announces the graduation of the third cohort from its bespoke Khulanathi Leadership Development Programme. Khulanathi, meaning “grow with us,” has been designed to fast-track talented individuals into leadership roles and bridge the gender and equity gap in the tourism sector.

The 12-month programme includes a six-month management course run through the University of Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (Pty) Ltd, followed by an internal curriculum that encompasses formal education, discipline focused development through cross-exposure, and job shadowing.

“With South Africa’s hospitality industry projected to reach $1.68 billion over the next five years, the travel and hospitality sector must invest in diverse talent to sustain equitable and inclusive growth,” says Benjamin Memani, Marriott International’s Area Director of HR, Sub-Saharan Africa. “Through Khulanthathi, we are supporting this growth by unlocking opportunity, empowering our talented workforce, and enabling them to realise their leadership potential.”

Since its launch in 2021, the Khulanathi Programme has celebrated remarkable success, with 29 graduates making significant contributions to the industry. This year, eight professionals have joined this prestigious group of alumni, with an additional 10 Marriott International associates joining the programme in July 2024.

Growing Together

This year’s graduating class features rising stars from various departments and hotels, including Razeen Toeffie, Food and Beverage Manager at Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch.

“The Khulanathi programme has been transformative,” Toeffie says. “It equipped me with comprehensive leadership skills and a deeper understanding of the business’s strategic goals. It has aligned my personal growth with the company’s vision.”

Toeffie highlighted the programme's collaborative environment, which allowed him to connect with peers and industry leaders, enhancing his professional network. This experience was pivotal in his promotion to Food and Beverage Manager in April, where he now oversees a larger team and manages more complex projects.

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Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.