KURIMAGU Leadership Program Marriott Empowers Local Talent

Marriott International proudly announces the successful completion of the inaugural KURIMAGU Leadership Program. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to nurturing and empowering local Maldivian talent within the hospitality industry. The graduation ceremony took place on 29 November 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. It celebrated the achievements of the program’s first cohort. The cohort included 29 associates from Marriott’s resorts across the Maldives.

Mark Fletcher, Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore & Maldives at Marriott International, expressed his pride in the program’s success:

“We are incredibly proud of the progress made by the first cohort of KURIMAGU participants. KURIMAGU is more than just a leadership development program – it’s a platform for Maldivian talent to thrive. By empowering our associates with the tools and support to excel in leadership roles, we are shaping the future of Marriott while contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Maldives’ hospitality industry. This is a critical part of our ongoing commitment to investing in and developing local talent for sustainable success”

A Year of Dynamic Learning and Growth

The KURIMAGU Leadership Program is a transformative 12-month initiative designed to develop the leadership potential of local talent. It prepares participants for key roles within Marriott and the broader hospitality industry. Graduates came from renowned properties including Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, W Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Marriott’s continued support for this initiative highlights its dedication to creating a pipeline of future leaders for the Maldives hospitality sector.

Over the past year, participants have engaged in an enriching learning experience. The curriculum included both in-person and virtual training sessions, self-paced e-learning, structured mentoring, cross-disciplinary exposure, and collaborative group learning. Participants also had opportunities to interact with senior leaders through insightful fireside chats. During these chats, they received valuable feedback on their career progression. Mentorship from seasoned hoteliers guided their development, fostering both personal and professional growth. This collaborative environment encouraged participants to share experiences. Learn from each other, and build lasting networks that enhanced their leadership capabilities.

Marriott International remains dedicated to nurturing local talent and fostering a culture of growth and leadership. The KURIMAGU Leadership Program reflects Marriott’s core value of “Putting People First” and contributes to the long-term success of both the company and the Maldives’ hospitality industry. Through initiatives like KURIMAGU, Marriott International aims to build a strong pipeline of talented individuals, ready to assume greater responsibilities and lead the future of the hospitality sector in the Maldives and beyond.

The first week of April has been a remarkable one for the Maldives’ tourism sector, with several key developments underscoring the country’s growing influence on the global stage. The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has spearheaded several initiatives that highlight its unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, international collaboration, and enhancing the nation’s tourism appeal. From launching a high-profile campaign with Liverpool Football Club to taking decisive steps toward a greener future, this week marks a pivotal moment for the Maldives’ tourism industry.

Tourism Promotion with Liverpool FC: A Landmark Partnership

One of the standout moments this week was, without a doubt, the official launch of the Maldives’ tourism promotion campaign in partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, joined by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, attended the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool FC and Everton, marking the global debut of this exciting collaboration. The Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has, in fact, worked alongside LFC to run a co-branded tourism campaign across the UK, aiming to attract high-value travelers to the Maldives. Specifically, the campaign includes extensive outdoor and digital advertisements in prime locations like the London Underground, airports, and major billboards across Europe, promising the Maldives significant exposure in international markets.

Advancing Climate Action: Maldives Sets Example with Transparency and Sustainability

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Maldives also focused on climate action this week. Notably, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment is currently undergoing a technical expert review of the nation’s first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR), submitted as part of the Paris Agreement’s Enhanced Transparency Framework. This review will, in turn, assess the country’s efforts in managing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts. Ultimately, this review process demonstrates the Maldives’ dedication to global climate action, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

Renewable Energy Progress: A Step Toward Sustainable Tourism

In a related effort to promote sustainability, the Ministry has signed an agreement to install 38 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems across 18 islands. This initiative, backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is a significant step toward increasing the use of solar energy in the Maldives, thereby helping to reduce reliance on costly diesel fuel. Furthermore, this project is expected to not only save millions in fuel costs but also support the Maldives’ broader goals of becoming more environmentally resilient, ultimately further enhancing its appeal as an eco-conscious tourist destination.

Strengthening International Relations and Local Industry Development

Minister Thoriq Ibrahim met with officials from Pakistan to discuss cooperative efforts in waste management, a critical issue for the archipelago’s scattered islands. Additionally, the Minister welcomed Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador, Mrs. Ishigami Rumiko, to discuss climate mitigation, waste management, and energy transition, thus demonstrating the Maldives’ commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.

Moreover, Minister Ibrahim also met with the Maldives Association of HR Professionals to explore opportunities for developing the tourism workforce, ensuring that the Maldives can continue offering exceptional service to visitors. These discussions are, indeed, crucial for strengthening the Maldives’ tourism industry and its global competitiveness.

Looking Ahead

With a continued focus on sustainable tourism, international collaborations, and workforce development, the Maldives is positioning itself for long-term success in the global tourism market. The nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, alongside initiatives like the partnership with Liverpool FC, will undoubtedly ensure it remains a top destination for travelers worldwide.

Marriott Completes First KURIMAGU Leadership Program in the Maldives

A Year of Dynamic Learning and Growth

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