The ‘fabulous five’ celebrated their graduation from the ‘GIFTed’ initiative, a program launched by Omran Group and dusitD2 Naseem Resort to empower individuals with disabilities in the tourism and hospitality sector. The proud graduates included Ahmed Al Tubi, Ahmed Al Dughari, Fathi Al Amri, Ahmed Al Awimiri, and Mohammed Al Awimiri. Notable figures attended the graduation ceremony, including Her Highness Sayyida Hujaija bint Jaifar Al Said and representatives from Omran Group and the Al Wafa Centre for the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities in Al Jabal Al Akhdar.
The ‘GIFTed’ initiative aims to support individuals with disabilities in the tourism industry by providing specialized training, fostering their abilities, and creating pathways to acquire practical skills and explore diverse employment opportunities. It seeks to raise awareness of the capabilities of individuals with disabilities, promote social integration, and empower participants to succeed in the opportunity-rich sector. This initiative is part of Omran Group’s #IAmTourism strategy, which aims to empower national talent in the tourism sector.
The graduates were mentored by Jagdeep Thakral, General Manager of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, who expressed his immense pride in their achievements. Thakral highlighted the dedicated efforts of the resort team in empowering the graduates with the skills and confidence to excel in the hospitality industry. The success of the program was evident as all five graduates were offered full-time positions at the resort, showcasing their hard work, perseverance, and the effectiveness of the program in preparing them for the workforce.
Looking towards the future, Thakral quoted Nelson Mandela in emphasizing the importance of lifting others up. The ‘GIFTed’ program will welcome a new batch of students, expanding its reach and impact in the tourism industry. Thakral also hopes to inspire other hotels within the Omran portfolio to embrace the initiative and integrate GIFTed graduates into their teams, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the hospitality landscape across Oman. dusitD2 Naseem Resort aims to nurture a diverse and empowered workforce that reflects the vibrant communities they serve.
Omran Group will continue to support professional development programs that enrich the tourism sector with qualified national talent, contributing to a positive societal impact and fostering a thriving and sustainable future for all. The success of the ‘GIFTed’ initiative showcases the transformative impact of empowering individuals with disabilities in the tourism and hospitality sector, setting a positive example for inclusive practices in the industry.
