Two final year International Hospitality Management BSc (Hons) students, Jordan Sloan and Yasmine Peacock, have been awarded the Rising Star Award for 2022 at the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation’s (NIHF) annual industry awards.
Championing talent and innovation, the Federation’s ‘Key Awards’ are designed to celebrate success and highlight the outstanding contribution individuals and businesses make to the local hotel and hospitality sector.
The Rising Star Award, a new category for 2022, was introduced to recognise those who are progressing at a stellar pace in their respective fields and making a difference to their business. The accolade spotlights the efforts of the next generation of talented hospitality professionals and the vital role they play in securing the sector’s future prosperity.
Jordan Sloan an Assistant Bar Manager at Titanic Hotel, Belfast, and Yasmine Peacock, Front Office Shift Leader at the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast were nominated by their placement organisations for the exceptional impact made during their third year work placements.
Professor Ioannis S. Pantelidis, Head of The Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ulster University Business School, congratulated the students on their achievement:
All of our students and alumni are stars in our eyes but to have two of our students recognised at the Northern Ireland Hotel Federation’s annual industry awards as Rising Stars gives a new meaning to the pride we hold for the success stories of many of our students. Both Jordan and Yasmine have excelled in what they do because they have the passion and commitment of a true hospitaller.
We strive to ensure our course provision matches current and future industry needs and thanks to our deep-rooted relationships with both local and international industry partners, our students are armed with the key transferable skills required for a successful and rewarding career within the hospitality and tourism industry.
Janice Gault, Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, commented:
Attracting talented people is an integral part of the hotel sector’s success and I think we have all recognised the growing importance of their contribution. This is an industry with incredible opportunities and one where you can progress through the ranks, gaining experience and qualifications along the way.
It is vital that we highlight this along with the diversity of roles, transferable skills, and a well remunerated career path. Without skilled and dedicated staff, we would struggle to deliver a great customer experience and engage with guests. It is great to see the level of talent coming out of our local universities and it is imperative that we work closely together for our mutual benefit.
Speaking about his award, Jordan Sloan commented:
To be recognised as a Rising Star by industry professionals is just amazing and a career highlight for me. I’ve been very luck to work with an exceptionally knowledgeable and supportive team at Titanic Belfast - the opportunities provided throughout my placement year have allowed me to develop key skills and capabilities which will prove vital as I progress towards the completion of my degree.
Reflecting on her award, Yasmine Peacock commented:
The practical experience and insight I gained whilst on my placement year has been invaluable and truly unique, and something that I can draw upon as I complete the final year of my degree. I would just like to thank the Fitzwilliam for all the wonderful opportunities it has provided and the amazing team there that I have the privilege of working with every day. I'm honoured to be among the Rising Stars recognised by the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation.
Along with eight other industry professionals in Northern Ireland, Jordan and Yasmine were presented with the Rising Star Award during a special lunch on Tuesday 11th October in the Crowne Plaza Belfast as part of the 23rd Hospitality Exchange.
Get more information on studying International Hospitality Management at Ulster University