Training
The training knows three phases. Throughout the phases, the students are trained using two approaches that were developed by founder Kim Groeneweg: the ‘3H’ Training Method and the ‘Hi5’ Approach.
The three training phases:
I. Employability Skills Training: Trainees obtain knowledge of the hospitality sector; develop Personal Development Plans and receive training on Hi5 behaviour emphasising topics such as personal presentation; body language; teamwork; communication; time management; customer service; norms & values; job realities; and English (5 months).
II. Practical Training (job exposure): Trainees follow a 3-month internship in a company involved in tourism (mostly hotels and lodges). There, students learn technical skills such as how to make a bed, prepare meals and serve guests. Once a week all students return to the Training Institute to share their experiences and obtain further training in feedback sessions.
III. Job Application Training: After having passed the first two phases, students finalise their portfolios. This portfolio functions as a CV. The trainers guide trainees on how to apply for a job and market themselves to obtain a job. Role-plays, group discussions, and individual coaching are employed to boost confidence and provide students with practical guidelines.
Upon graduation the trainees will go out to find a job. Many graduates from the first class, however, were offered a job at the company where they enjoyed their internship.
Focuses on personal development by addressing young people’s Head, Hands & Heart.
• Head: knowledge of hospitality industry and own capacity
• Hands: social, communication and employability skills
• Heart: positive and professional work attitude
Because the main emphasis is on the ‘Heart’, a second approach was developed. This training method and curriculum became ‘Hi5’.
“Use your hand as a guide to be the best employee”.
1. Thumb = have a positive and professional attitude
2. Index finger = have a goal and direction
3. Middle finger = stand out and be proud
4. Ring finger = be loyal and a team player
5. Little finger = take little but smart steps
The Hi5 Approach was inspired by the methodology of Dutch Versity. Jobortunity has employed the concept and adapted it to a Tanzanian context and developed her own training methodology.
The Training–of–Trainers Programme
Of course, trainers need to be trained as well. After all, a great teacher means great education! All junior trainers first receive a Training of Trainers and Jobortunity Hi5 training course. Then, they follow a tailor-made training to become an Employability Skills Trainer, Social Worker, Job Facilitator or English Language Trainer.
