Marriott International is proud to announce the successful completion of the inaugural KURIMAGU Leadership Program, a transformative 12-month leadership development initiative aimed at nurturing and empowering local Maldivian talent within the hospitality industry. The graduation ceremony, held on November 29, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, marked a significant milestone in the program's journey.

A total of 29 associates from Marriott’s resorts in the Maldives—including Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, W Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort & Spa, and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands— successfully graduated from the program. Marriott’s continued support for this initiative reflects its dedication to cultivating a pipeline of local leaders ready to assume key roles within the company and the broader hospitality industry in the Maldives.

Over the past year, participants have engaged in a dynamic learning experience that included in-person and virtual training sessions, self-paced e-Learning, structured mentoring, cross-disciplinary exposure, and collaborative group learning. The program also offered participants opportunities to interact with senior leaders through insightful fireside chats and provide feedback on their career progression. They had the unique chance to be mentored by seasoned hoteliers who guided them in their career development, offered feedback, and fostered personal and professional growth. This collaborative environment encouraged participants to share experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting networks that enhanced their leadership capabilities.

“We are incredibly proud of the progress made by the first cohort of KURIMAGU participants,” said Mark Fletcher, Area Director of Human Resources, Singapore & Maldives at Marriott International. “KURIMAGU is more than just a leadership development program – it’s a platform for Maldivian talent to thrive. By empowering our associates with the tools and support to excel in leadership roles, we are shaping the future of Marriott while contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Maldives' hospitality industry. This is a critical part of our ongoing commitment to investing in and developing local talent for sustainable success.”

Marriott International remains dedicated to nurturing and developing local talent through initiatives like the KURIMAGU Leadership Program, which aligns with one of the company’s core values of Putting People First. Through the KURIMAGU program, Marriott International aims to foster a culture of growth and leadership within the Maldives, creating a pipeline of talented individuals ready to take on greater responsibilities within the company and beyond.