Patina Maldives celebrates 12 graduates of globally accredited hospitality programme

Patina Maldives celebrated the achievements of 12 dedicated teammates who have successfully completed the Vocational Education and Training (VET) by EHL programme—a landmark initiative that empowers resort-based professionals through globally accredited hospitality education.

The graduation ceremony brought together resort leadership, government dignitaries, representatives from Capella Hotel Group, mentors, and families to honour the exceptional commitment and perseverance of the graduates. Set against the oceanfront backdrop, the celebration reflected the spirit of growth, learning, and transformation.

The event began with a warm welcome from Anthony Gill, General Manager of Patina Maldives, who expressed immense pride in the graduating class and in the resort’s ongoing investment in nurturing local talent.

This cohort marks a significant milestone in the VET by EHL programme at Patina Maldives, launched in 2022 in collaboration with VET by EHL Hospitality Business School—ranked the world’s best hotel management school by QS World University Rankings. The 18-month curriculum, structured across Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, blends online learning, on-the-job training, and in-person classroom sessions. Annual audits ensure the programme remains aligned with the globally recognised standards.

The 12 graduates include 6 students from the Diploma in Food and Beverage track and 6 students from the Diploma in Hotel Operations (Rooms Division). Each individual has successfully balanced full-time work responsibilities with academic pursuits, demonstrating remarkable dedication and passion.

Food & Beverage:

• Catherine Chung Hui Ling
• Mohamed Ishan Ahmed
• Ali Shiyaz
• Mohamed Aiman
• Rubina Dhaamee
• Ali Anshah Ibrahim

Rooms Division:

• Mohamed Miras
• Numa Ibrahim Rasheed
• Ibrahim Shoobaan
• Hussain Ali
• Abdullah Hassan
• Ali Amir

Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim, attended as Chief Guest and shared words of encouragement. He emphasised the evolving demands of the hospitality industry and the need for continued learning, flexibility, and humility. The Minister praised the program for producing confident and capable professionals who are ready to make their mark in tourism, and commended Patina Maldives for its visionary commitment to people development.

Also addressing the audience was Clive Edwards of Capella Hotel Group, who reaffirmed the Group’s belief in cultivating internal talent and thanked all those who contributed to this transformative educational journey.

The highlight of the evening was the formal graduation ceremony, where each graduate received their VET by EHL-accredited diploma. Following the certificate handover, two graduates— Ali Shiyaz from the Food and Beverage programme and Numa Ibrahim from the Rooms Division—shared heartfelt reflections. They spoke of personal growth, the value of mentorship, and the camaraderie that carried them through the challenges of balancing study and work.

Faculty mentor Hussain Ahusan offered closing reflections, praising the cohort’s resilience and commitment to excellence. He highlighted that these graduates are not only skilled professionals but role models who exemplify the future of hospitality in the Maldives.

The event concluded with a celebratory toast, cake-cutting, and a golden hour group photo, followed by a three-course dinner enjoyed with background music and shared memories. What began as a structured learning initiative culminated in a deeply personal and inspiring celebration of achievement.