SANDALS Resorts International continues to make its mark on the Caribbean community through its contributions and interest in education and development.

On November 3, 2011, over 300 students at the Hanover-based Rusea’s High School benefited from the expertise of Sandals team members, during the school’s annual Grade 11 School Leavers Seminar. Representatives from Sandals Negril, Beaches Negril, Beaches Sandy Bay and Grand Pineapple Negril were on hand to expose students to a range of career opportunities within the hospitality and tourism industry.

“Sandals really went all out in assisting our students in making successful career choices and exposing them to important details such as how to dress appropriately for work and interviews. Events, such as these give our students an invaluable opportunity to interact with professionals and learn how to operate in the business environment,” remarked Vedalyn Bowlin, head of student services at the Rusea’s High School.

From 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, several Hanover and Westmoreland organisations presented to eager groups of grade 11 students. At the Sandals booth, droves of visitors watched and listened keenly to presentations made by managers and other key resort personnel from all four properties.

“I have always had plans to get my certification in Food and Beverage Management and I was able to speak directly to a professional in that area who gave me important information on the subjects I must pursue and the qualifications I need to get,” stated Radcliffe Crooks, a fifth form student. Other students were pleased with the added information received on pursuing their desired career.

For three decades, Sandals Resorts International has been supporting education at all levels and believes in providing opportunities for positive change throughout the Caribbean community.

Sandals’ focus is to ensure that as many children, youth and adults as possible have the educational opportunities they need to reach their full potential. The Sandals Group’s philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation, includes as one of its mandates, educational programmes that extend to community scholarships, adopted schools, book drives and literacy programmes, and support of new libraries and computer facilities.