Ombéline in Nepal

At the beginning of May, our focus was on supporting the current batch of students in securing internships at hotels in Kathmandu. To help them prepare, I conducted a coaching session on interview skills and professional behavior. Six students from F&B Production and Rooms Division went on to complete their three-month internships at Aloft Kathmandu Thamel, a 5-star hotel under the Marriott brand.

At the same time, we were also preparing for admissions for the next batch of students at the ROKPA Vocational Training Center. In early June, we welcomed 20 new students. Their first week was dedicated to “Orientation Week,” designed to help them explore the three departments—Rooms Division, F&B Service, and F&B Production—so they could make an informed choice about their focus. Each student spent two days in every department, guided by supervisors and staff, gaining a first-hand understanding of their future work environments.

To make the experience more engaging, we organized interactive workshops. For instance, in the F&B Service department, students learned barista and bartending skills, creating cappuccinos and virgin mojitos. It was inspiring to see the current students connecting with the newcomers, sharing insights and experiences from their own journeys.

I also led sessions on professional etiquette—covering the basic codes of conduct in hospitality—and discussed the top skills to master in the industry.

Beyond these lessons, my ongoing challenge is to ensure that the year starts smoothly: organizing the lesson plans, implementing “train the trainers” programs, and assisting with daily routines to elevate hospitality standards at the guesthouse and restaurant. My role includes identifying issues and finding ways to enhance the overall quality, ensuring that students train in the best possible environment and that guests enjoy an exceptional experience at ROKPA.