IHCL, HUL, and HHHF join forces to empower youth through skill development – ET TravelWorld

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), in collaboration with Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and Head Held High Foundation (HHHF), is set to launch a programme aimed at empowering youth from identified communities through skill development. This initiative reflects the shared commitment of these organisations to address the growing need for skilled professionals in India.

Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources at IHCL, expressed, “Guided by Paathya, our industry-leading ESG+ framework, IHCL prioritises community development as a cornerstone of its ethos. Through this collaboration, we are taking a step further in creating impactful programmes that empower the youth, preparing them for successful careers while addressing the growing talent needs of the hospitality industry. This initiative aligns with our mission to skill 1,00,000 individuals by 2030.”

The programme will focus on developing essential literacy and hospitality-specific skills that are crucial for the evolving service sector. Experienced professionals and industry leaders will provide mentorship and career counselling, offering valuable one-on-one sessions to help participants navigate their career paths effectively. Additionally, industry-based internships will allow participants to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.

BP Biddappa, Executive Director and Chief People, Transformation and Sustainability Officer at HUL, commented, “Empowering young individuals through skill development is key to unlocking a country’s true potential and driving sustainable growth for communities and industries alike. This partnership brings together a wealth of resources to address the critical need for talent development in India. By equipping youth with essential skills and practical experience, we are strengthening the foundation for a more inclusive and skilled workforce that can meet the evolving demands of a dynamic economy.”

Pankaj Singh, CEO of Head Held High Foundation, stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate with two of India’s most esteemed companies, IHCL and HUL, in this journey to empower the nation’s youth. Their support underscores a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for skill development and career growth. By combining resources and expertise, we aim to equip young individuals with the tools they need to build successful futures while contributing to the country’s growing workforce.”