Marriott International Opens Applications for Accelerate Programme, Aiming to Combat Youth Unemployment in South Africa

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In a move to tackle youth unemployment, which stands at over 45%, Marriott International has announced the opening of applications for its Accelerate Programme 2025. This long-standing initiative is designed to provide young South Africans aged 18 to 22 with essential skills, formal academic training, and experience to pursue careers in the hospitality industry.

The Accelerate Programme starts with a one-year Orientation phase, where participants gain hands-on experience working across various hotel departments or kitchen operations. This is followed by a three-year formal training programme that includes annual placements at different hotels within the Marriott hotel portfolio, where trainees rotate through departments to develop a well-rounded understanding of hotel operations. Participants also receive annual study leave to complete formal courses at accredited hospitality or culinary schools, along with access to short courses and online learning, all funded by Marriott.

Upon completion of the programme, graduates must commit to at least one year of employment with the company, which assists them in securing suitable permanent positions.

“Youth unemployment is one of the most pressing challenges we face. Through the Accelerate Programme, we are empowering young South Africans with career-ready skills and strengthening the local talent pipeline within the hospitality sector,” says Benjamin Memani, Marriott International’s Area Director of Human Resources for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Zamekile Dlangamandla and Christina Mashobane (right) celebrate their graduation from Marriott’s Accelerate Programme. © Marriott International

A significant aspect of the programme is the financial support it offers participants. Each trainee receives a monthly stipend, which helps offset living expenses during their training. “This support has proven vital for many, as the hospitality sector often struggles to attract talent due to economic barriers,” says Memani.

Since Marriott acquired Protea Hotels in 2014, over 1 200 individuals have benefited from the Accelerate Programme, with many graduates finding success within Marriott’s extensive portfolio of hotels. Notable alumni include Thuthukile Moloto, currently serving as Cluster Director of Quality for Marriott Hotels on Sindalah Island in Saudi Arabia, and Colin Naiker, who holds the position of Cluster General Manager at Protea Hotel Breakwater Lodge in Cape Town.

Benjamin Memani, Marriott International’s Area Director of Human Resources for Sub-Saharan Africa, congratulates graduates from – © Marriott International

“The Accelerate Programme has been instrumental in shaping my career and those of so many of us,” says Naiker. “It provided a solid foundation of both practical and theoretical knowledge, allowing individuals to excel in the hospitality industry. It’s not just about immediate employment but about cultivating future leaders who can drive the industry forward.”

How to apply

The are 50 available Orientation positions open at hotels across South Africa. Young South Africans who have completed their Matric are encouraged to visit the Marriott Careers Portal, search for “Accelerate,” and filter by South Africa for available positions. Applications close on 28 February 2025. For more information, candidates can reach out via email at careers.emea@marriott.com.

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of approximately 9,000 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. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Copyright: Image rights unless otherwise indicated by Marriott International

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