THASL officially begins count of applicants for Rising Star Awards 2017

The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) officially commenced opening and scrutiny of the applications submitted by candidates from THASL member hotels and resorts, for the upcoming Rising Star Hospitality Awards 2017 at the Hybrid Room of BMICH. 

THASL recently launched the Rising Star Awards – the first ever island-wide competition to recognise the most outstanding hospitality employees amongst youth in the hospitality industry.

The official opening and scrutiny of the applications was conducted in the presence of THASL President Sanath Ukwatte, THASL CEO Laleenie Hulangamuwa, Rising Star Technical Committee Members Prasantha Abeykoon, Bazeer Cassim, Lakal Jayasinghe, Hyacinth Gunawardana, Shanthi Kumar and Royston Quyn. Audit Manager Nishantha Jayalath and Audit – Senior Kupendran Kumarakulasingham of KPMG were also present at the occasion.

More than 325 applicants from 75 hotels island-wide have submitted applications. Winners will be adjudged by an expert panel of professionals based on nine hospitality disciplines namely receptionist, concierge/bell hop, bartender, public area attendant, lifeguard/pool attendant, room attendant, steward/waiter, kitchen steward and telephone operator. The candidates will be evaluated in their respective discipline based on outstanding capabilities, talents and personality traits. Young hoteliers between the ages of 18 and 28 were encouraged to apply for the contest. A great level of enthusiasm was witnessed during the course of the valid period of application submission, with many hotels encouraging their young employees to gain an invaluable experience within a competitive environ. 

The judging process will be conducted in seven regions by a head judge and a group of regional judges. Following the first round, 45 of the best candidates will be chosen to vie for the Most Popular Finalist title, which will be determined by a voting round via SMS and social media. 

The final phase of judging will evaluate the contestants based on the marks they have obtained and the candidates with the highest scores will be further analysed through one-on-one interviews. The 27 finalists, top three candidates from nine disciplines each, will be recognised and awarded at the Rising Star Awards Ceremony scheduled to be held on 24 October at the BMICH. 

Commenting on the response that had been received in terms of applications, THASL President Sanath Ukwatte said, “For a nationwide competition of this magnitude being held for the first time, we are overwhelmed and optimistic with the response we have had from the applicants. The tourism sector in Sri Lanka is a significant income generator to the country’s economy and over the years Sri Lanka is set to witness even more tourists and travellers pouring in. It is important to note that the country needs to address the issue of attracting and retaining young personnel in the hospitality industry and this new competition would not only help recognise talented young personnel but also encourage them to embrace the essence of tourism and seek progressive career development in hospitality sector.”