The Tribune

AFTER canvassing five countries across the Caribbean and interviewing hundreds of persons, executives from Sandals Resorts International have chosen four team members from the Sandals Bahamian properties to take part in the resort chain's innovative and intensive Manager Trainee Programme. Christopher Davies in the accounting department and Delino Moss in the butler department were both chosen from Sandals Royal Bahamian, while Dwayne Johnson in food and beverage and Lorrell Taylor in the accounting department were both chosen from Sandals Emerald Bay. They won scholarships that will send them travelling throughout the Caribbean to the 21 Sandals and Beaches properties over the next two years. They will experience an intensive, accelerated and practical two-year learning and development programme, including exposure to all areas of hotel operations. On completion of the course, the graduates will be highlighted for management positions within the Sandals portfolio and will also have the chance to be a part of the opening teams for new properties. Their accomplishment is truly remarkable considering that there were 700 persons interviewed and only 20 scholarships available. Sandals Royal Bahamian general manager Patrick Drake said he was elated that two members of his team were able to secure spots in the programme. "I am the happiest general manager in the world. These young men are the next wave. They are the future of this company and the tourism industry in the Bahamas," Mr Drake said. Davies and Moss expressed their appreciation for the opportunity and promised not only to use their experience for the betterment of Sandals Royal Bahamian, but for the country as well. "My personal maxim is never give up, and I never did. This is a great opportunity for me and my family, especially my greatest motivation, my two daughters," Mr Davies said. "I feel awesome - truly. I am very proud to take this as an opportunity to contribute to Sandals, the industry and the country," Mr Moss said.