The Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, attended a recognition ceremony at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club last week to celebrate two graduates of the hotel's Leadership Development Management Programme.
The event at the Intrepid Restaurant honoured Marcus Iris-Simmons and Khaijeh Worrell, two young Bermudians who successfully completed intensive, hands-on management training designed to prepare them for leadership roles in Bermuda’s hospitality sector.
The Leadership Development Management Programme is a structured, rotational initiative that exposes participants to multiple areas of hotel operations.
Marcus, who pursued the Food & Beverage track, has now assumed the role of Outlet Captain, while Khaijeh, from the Rooms Division track, has taken on the role of Housekeeping Supervisor.
Speaking at the event, Minister Hayward highlighted the critical role of Bermuda's hospitality industry, which remains the second pillar of the Island's economy.
“Programmes like this are a shining example of what it means to invest in our people,” Minister Hayward commented.
“Marcus and Khaijeh have demonstrated exceptional commitment and growth, and I commend Hamilton Princess and Beach Club for taking the time to nurture local talent and prepare them for rewarding careers in this vital industry.”
The Minister further noted that the Government continues to prioritise workforce development and applauded the hotel’s leadership for aligning with the national strategy to build a resilient, skilled Bermudian workforce.
“This is exactly the kind of initiative that helps build not just individual careers, but a stronger Bermuda. Hospitality offers meaningful and dynamic career paths, and I encourage more employers to follow Hamilton Princess’s example by investing in our people,” he added.