The “Ausbildung macht VIELfalt!” program reached a significant milestone at Europa-Park Rust. In a festive ceremony on June 24th and 25th, 2024, the first graduates of the program were honored, and new trainees were welcomed. This project, initiated by the Deutschlandstiftung Integration (DSI) in cooperation with the Dehoga Bundesverband and supported by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, is aimed at young people with a migration background who aspire to a career in the hospitality and catering industry.
A Year of Intensive Mentoring in the Hospitality Industry
The program offers participants intensive 12-month mentoring by experienced professionals in the industry. It focuses not only on imparting technical skills, but also on fostering personal development and expanding professional networks. In addition to individual mentoring, the trainees are part of a community that regularly participates in events, exchange forums, and workshops.
New Trainees Begin Their Careers
This year, 18 new trainees from various regions of Germany were accepted into the program. During the kick-off event, they had the opportunity to get to know each other and make initial contacts. A highlight of the event was the ceremonial presentation of certificates to the graduates of the first cohort. Over the past 12 months, these graduates have not only gained valuable professional experience but have also benefited from the numerous opportunities the program offered them.
Exclusive Insights Behind the Scenes of Europa-Park
As part of the event, an exclusive tour of Europa-Park was conducted. Participants received insights into the daily operations in areas such as event management and catering, and were given a behind-the-scenes look at one of Europe's largest theme parks. The day concluded with a visit to the park’s attractions, where the trainees, along with their mentors, enjoyed roller coaster rides and other activities.
Acknowledgement by Project Partners and Participants
Mikolaj Ciechanowicz, Managing Director of the Deutschlandstiftung Integration, expressed his joy at welcoming the new trainees and emphasized the importance of supporting them on their professional journey. Lisa Igelbrink, Sustainability Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Deutschland, highlighted the relevance of diversity and equal opportunities in the hospitality and catering industry. Sandra Warden, Managing Director of the Dehoga Bundesverband, underscored the cultural diversity of the mentees and the inspiring potential of the program. She also thanked the mentors of the first cohort for their dedication and commitment.
A special moment during the event was a statement from one of the participants, who expressed her surprise at the many opportunities in the industry that she discovered through the program. These experiences and the positive feedback from participants underline the success of the program and the importance of such initiatives for integrating and promoting young people with a migration background in Germany.
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