The Municipality of Walvis Bay has taken significant strides in enhancing the skills of local hospitality teams through a dedicated mentorship programme. Over the past four weeks, The Delight Swakopmund has played a pivotal role in providing hands-on training to four individuals from various accommodation establishments, including Esplanade Park Resort, Langstrand Resort, Dolphin Park Resort, and the Resorts Department of the Municipality.
Learning by doing in the laundry department of The Delight Swakopmund (ltr): Ernesta Kamuingona, Receptionist at Esplanade Park Resort; Magdalena Cloete and Josephine Uushona from The Delight Housekeeping team, Estie Kapunda, Receptionist at Dolphin Park Resort
Commendably, the participants exhibited remarkable enthusiasm and a strong desire to learn, seamlessly integrating with the team at The Delight Swakopmund. Their journey began in the back of house, specifically in the laundry department, where they spent four days mastering essential tasks such as washing, drying, folding, and ironing linen.
Training session at The Delight Swakopmund (ltr): Ernesta Kamuingona, Receptionist at Esplanade Park Resort; Susanna Thomas, Assistant Chef The Delight Hotel, Estie Kapunda, Receptionist at Dolphin Park Resort
In addition to laundry duties, the first week included a day shadowing a housekeeper. This experience was crucial for understanding the intricacies of room service, from preparing cleaning caddies to conducting stocktakes of amenities. The culmination of their first week saw them independently cleaning and servicing rooms under supervisor oversight to ensure quality standards were met.
Eunice Uaisiua, Receptionist at Langstrand Resort, setting a room at The Delight Swakopmund during the emntorship programme.
The following week shifted focus to guest interaction at the Front Desk. Participants learned how to navigate the INNkeeper System and engaged in administrative duties such as placing weekly orders and processing invoices. Emphasis was placed on maintaining awareness of guests in public areas and practising proper telephone etiquette.
This mentorship initiative not only equips participants with practical skills but also fosters a culture of learning and professional development within the hospitality sector in Walvis Bay.
Housekeeping team at The Delight during the mentorship programme (ltr): Florensia Mutrifa Ndjoze-Uanivi, Head of Resorts, Paulina Kharuchas, Housekeeping Supervisor The Delight Hotel, Agnes Kamati, Assistant Manager The Delight Hotel, Eunice Uaisiua, Receptionist at Langstrand Resort