Investing in our Human Capital and inspiring a new generation of Tourism Professionals.
After organizing two ‘Speed Meets’ together with BONHATA and Plenchi di Trabou, Tourism Corporation Bonaire has noticed the demand for staff and professionals in our tourism industry on Bonaire. Additionally, we have spoken to teachers and some students about their interest and knowledge about the tourism industry on the island.
With this information we wanted to do something about it. We created a campaign about how diverse, attractive and important the jobs are in the tourism sector on the island. Eventually after creating awareness around this we wanted to do something more meaningful.
That is where the idea sparked. We want to start from the root to successfully build professionals. And how do you do that? By investing in their education. Education improves ones knowledge, skills and develops personality and attitude. Education affects the chances of employment for people. A highly educated individual is very likely to get a good job. The aim is to increase the number of local professionals in the tourism sector. This will provide entrepreneurs with good and sustainable staff and local job seekers with paid jobs.
We know that scholarships can have so many benefits for the ones eager to continue their studies. By facilitating them with this program we acknowledge that we will be able to invest in a sustainable development of our future in the tourism industry on the island.
Bonaire doesn’t have a scholarship program either, therefore this was a great opportunity to introduce this to our community. According to CEO of TCB, Miles Mercera, ‘”Scholarships provide an opportunity for people to earn an education or further develop their skills. Our sometimes limited financial resources as young professionals should not stop us from reaching our potential, therefore I personally believe that this program will open up new doors of opportunities for youngsters just like me who started working at the age of 15 in one of the most dynamic industries of the world without the financial resources but with the right attitude and passion to push forward. Making tourism and its economic opportunities accessible for all is our top priority. In an ever changing world we must aspire to make sure that we view education as the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.’’
We also are happy to be working together with Guardian Group Fatum to introduce this great initiative. CEO of Guardian Group Fatum, Diego Frankel, concurs, “Young professionals are the future, with the scholarship program Guardian Group aspires to contribute to the further development of our tourism Industry. Aiding in providing equal opportunities and access for the right tools in education now, gives us on Bonaire, a brighter tomorrow. We're excited to be part of the Scholarship Program as a part of our social responsibility, giving back to our community to invest in our future young professional's academic journey Is a reward for us all.”
We are ready to help deserving students and non-students to complete their education and spark interest in becoming a professional in the tourism industry on Bonaire.
