Meet Bella
We have the pleasure of delving into the world of tourism and hospitality with Bella, a passionate individual who has embarked on a journey of exploration and learning in this dynamic industry. With recent certifications in hospitality levels 1 and 2 under her belt, Bella shares insights drawn from her participation in the Gateway to Industry Work Experience Program at Royal Pines Resort in 2023. Through this transformative experience, she discovered a newfound appreciation for the intricacies of hospitality, gained insights into the industry’s commitment to excellence, and witnessed the remarkable outcomes achieved through effective teamwork. Bella reflects on the rewarding aspects of working in the food and tourism sector, where connecting with people through shared experiences has left an indelible mark. As she stands on the cusp of graduation, Bella unveils her aspirations of continuing her journey within cafes, all while nurturing a captivating long-term dream of establishing a café of her own. read more on her vision within the realm of hospitality.
1. What tourism and/or hospitality courses are you presently enrolled in at school?
I have recently completed my certifications in hospitality, levels 1 and 2.
2. How did your participation in the 3-day Gateway to Industry Work Experience Program at Royal Pines Resort in 2023 influence your passion for hospitality?
Participating in the LIVET program at Royal Pines Resort exposed me to various facets of the industry that I hadn’t encountered before. This experience broadened my perspective on the importance, intricacies, dedication, and teamwork needed to efficiently and effectively operate, mirroring the successful operations at Royal Pines.
3. What was your most significant learning experience during your time at Royal Pines?
Throughout my tenure at Royal Pines, I had the opportunity to work in the pastry kitchen. Here, I observed chefs tackle challenges in dessert preparation, aiming to rectify discrepancies from previous attempts. I was engaged in decision-making processes and granted a degree of creative freedom in garnishing the final plated desserts.
4. What aspect have you found most fulfilling in your engagement with industry training experiences, such as your involvement in your school-based Café, school events, or part-time work?
The most gratifying aspect of working in the food and tourism sector is the chance to meet incredible individuals and share experiences. Witnessing the elation on children’s faces as they receive a cupcake, observing tired souls enter on chilly mornings only to depart content and invigorated with a coffee I’ve crafted, and witnessing the delight of patrons as I present the food I’ve prepared or the simple latte art adorning their coffee – all of these experiences warm my heart deeply. The moments they capture through photographs to preserve as memories are truly heartwarming.
5. Which skills acquired from your work experiences and program involvements will prove advantageous when pursuing your dream job in the future? Examples include customer service skills and expertise in operating coffee machines.
Skills gained from these experiences encompass customer service proficiency, adeptness with coffee machines, honed problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with diverse challenges.
6. What guidance would you offer to individuals contemplating a study path in tourism and hospitality?
Persevere and banish any notions of the field being too challenging or exclusively suited for extroverted individuals.
7. As you approach graduation from Year 12, do you hold any career aspirations or plans?
This could encompass further academic pursuits or securing employment within a specific industry.
Upon completing Year 12, I foresee myself continuing my part-time position at the bakery. Subsequently, I intend to persistently work in cozy cafés, with the long-term aspiration of eventually establishing my own café.
