The dynamic and fast paced hospitality industry is as demanding as it is inspiring and exciting.
Only those with a passion for hospitality, people and service will thrive.
For women, it can be especially challenging to juggle a career in hospitality with family.
At Sun International’s The Table Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, the many female employees are getting the balance right and climbing the ranks.
“Compared to 20 or 30 years ago, more women are achieving senior roles in hotels as the industry becomes more aware of women’s abilities to lead and their communication capabilities,” said The Table Bay General Manager, Joanne Selby.
“The hospitality and entertainment industry is an exciting one, with numerous and diverse career opportunities. It is important to us that we continue to attract and retain people with a passion for the industry. We also remain committed to increasing the number of women we have in our ranks,” said Ms Selby.
The Table Bay Lounge Manager, Margeaux Pereira, who has been with The Table Bay for three and a half years said, “Hospitality is not for the faint of heart”.
“One needs to be as dynamic and fast paced as the industry. Explore and keep an open mind in finding your niche on this career path,” said Ms Pereira.
“My job allows me to meet people from all walks of life, and from across the globe. I love the cultural diversity, the authenticity and the uniqueness. It is important to keep the balance between work and home life as both are significant to your wellbeing.”
Ms Pereira encourages young women considering a career in hospitality to study further.
“Tertiary education is the key to fast tracking your career. Never stop learning and never stop challenging yourself,” she said.
The Table Bay Restaurant Manager, Laa’iqah Nordien said, “Think carefully about the field of work you want to go into and match your studies to that, whether it is a diploma or a degree”.
“Take every opportunity to learn as much as you can, accept criticism in good faith, act respectfully and never give up. Working in hospitality can be tough but the opportunities are endless,” said Ms Nordien.
She believes women have communication skills that place them in good stead in the field of hospitality, where service is at the core.
“But don’t be emotional. Instead be strong and confident, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Just do it with professionalism.” Ms Nordien said.
“I love meeting new people, learning about different cultures and listening to their languages and beliefs. You have to love what you do. It inspires me to continue improving myself to become a better person. I look at so many different women and see what they have achieved and accomplished in life and tell myself, ‘soon it will be your turn girl. Sacrifice and pray.”
The Table Bay Banqueting Manager, Jolene Booysen said hard work and determination would pave the way for great success.
“Create options for yourself by taking every opportunity to learn,” Ms Booysen said.
“Go out and upskill yourself so that you have choices about what you want to do in life and what you want to earn. Don’t take no for answer.”
For information and bookings for The Table Bay, contact Svetlana Jovanovic at The Unique Tourism Collection on svetlana@uniquetourism.com or 02 9211 6590
https://www.suninternational.com/table-bay/
Left to right The Table Bay – Laa’iqah Nordien, Margeaux Pereira, Jolene Booysen
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