UK: The Institute of Hospitality (IoH) has launched its youth council – Aspiring in Hospitality Group – for the first time in the organisation’s 83-year history.
The council, made up of students and young professionals at the start of their careers, is the idea of chief executive Robert Richardson. The role of the council is to develop a strong image of culture and professionalism, and to provide insight, advice and recommendations to the Institute.
Members of the council will also act as ambassadors for the IoH as it intensifies its efforts to appeal to Gen Z and younger millennials.
Clare Johnson, national relationship manager of apprenticeships and training for HIT Training, has been named inaugural chair. She will be supported by Peter Avis, general manager of Galvin at Windows and a member of the IoH supervisory board.
Johnson said: “I’m delighted to be part of something so innovative and much needed within our beloved hospitality industry. I look forward to sharing our passion for hospitality and working with a fantastic team. Our youth council will work very hard to ensure Associates of the Institute of Hospitality get all the tools needed from their membership, and to attract budding talent to both our industry and Institute.”
Other members of the council include Jake Armston, bar manager and full-time student at University College Birmingham; Andew Di Sora, assistant food and beverage manager at Ham Yard Hotel in London; Sian Rann, reservations and revenue executive at the Dorchester Collection; Katariina Reissar, graduate manager at the Leonardo Royal Grand Habour Southampton; and Jaz Zaman, soon to graduate from the University of Exeter and will be joining Connect Vending as business development executive.
The council will meet at regular intervals, and members are already exploring how best to promote the work of the IoH. Among the plans is a webinar focussing on mental health support for hospitality front-line teams and supervisors.
Richardson said: “More than a name, ‘Aspiring in Hospitality’ is a mission statement. The formation of a youth council breaks new ground for the Institute of Hospitality. We are drawing on the talent and enthusiasm of our next generation of hospitality professionals and decision makers who will play a key role in driving Associate-level membership activity and continuous professional development.
“Members of the Institute’s executive team and supervisory board, not least myself, have already been impressed by the council members’ passion and determination. I am excited to work with them as the Institute supports its members in resetting, rebuilding, and moving forward.”
